Stargate, OpenAI and Microsoft; BlueSky in Seattle; and Madrona's big new funds

This week, we delve into the Project Stargate announcement by OpenAI, Oracle and Softbank, in conjunction with President Trump, and assess the implications for OpenAi's relationship with Microsoft. We explain what Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella really meant with his CNBC zinger about the Stargate investment, and consider how Elon Musk's involvement in the new administration could play out in the tech industry. 

PLUS, we discuss Madrona's big new funds and the potential impact on startup activity in the Pacific NW, and find a revealing piece of Microsoft history on an old CD-ROM.

Related stories: 

Microsoft and OpenAI tweak the terms of their cloud deal, enabling $500B Stargate AI project

‘I’m good for my $80 billion’: What Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella really meant by his Stargate zinger

CNBC: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on $500B Stargate project: Our partnership with OpenAI continues

Madrona raises $770M for new funds — here’s what the Seattle VC firm is betting on

Cascade PBS: The rise of Bluesky, a not-so-Seattle-based social media company

Microsoft @ 50: ‘The Road Ahead’ at 30: What Bill Gates’ classic book about the future says about the world today

Learn more and register here for our special Microsoft @ 50 event, March 20, 2025, in Seattle.

With GeekWire's Todd Bishop and John Cook. Editing by Curt Milton.

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