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Plug and Play: A 20-Year Journey of Innovation

In January 2026, Plug and Play celebrated two decades as a leading innovation platform, transforming a small office in Silicon Valley into a global powerhouse. The launch of 20 Years, a comprehensive new book, details this extraordinary journey, highlighting the founders, partners, and mentors who have played pivotal roles in its success.

From Local to Global

Plug and Play's evolution has been nothing short of remarkable. It began as a modest office where visionary entrepreneurs like Saeed Amidi, the company's CEO and founder, teamed up with renowned names in the tech industry like Google and PayPal, shaping the trajectory of the startup ecosystem. Today, the platform boasts an extensive global network with over 2,500 startup investments, 60 offices across five continents, and partnerships with more than 550 Fortune 1000 companies.

Building an Ecosystem

The foundation of Plug and Play's success lies in its unique model that combines startup acceleration, open innovation partnerships, and venture capital. This multifaceted approach creates an unparalleled innovation ecosystem that attracts a diverse array of partners, including corporations, government agencies, and universities. With over $1 billion in assets under management, Plug and Play is positioned as a leader in funding and nurturing groundbreaking startups across various sectors, from financial services to sustainability.

Celebrating Milestones

The new book encapsulates significant milestones achieved by Plug and Play, including:

• - The expansion from just 10 U.S. locations to more than 20.
• - The establishment of AI Centers of Excellence that bring together industry leaders to foster AI adoption worldwide.
• - A diversified investment portfolio, including funds dedicated to new technology sectors and regional markets.

“We’re connecting executives, founders, and global leaders to embrace AI technology,” Amidi explains. “Our initiatives are set to guide our startups and partners into the future of technology.”

Beyond Numbers: The Human Element

While statistics highlight Plug and Play's scale, the essence of the platform is its community. The book shares stories of successful partnerships, showcasing admired alumni companies like PayPal, LendingClub, and SoundHound. The insights from founders, such as Turing’s Jonathan Siddharth, reveal the vital role of Plug and Play's support in startup journeys: “If you're running a startup, engage with Plug and Play—it has been a game changer for us.”

Looking to the Future

Reflecting on the last five years, Amidi states, “Our rapid evolution has been driven by advancements in AI.” The framework established through the AI Centers of Excellence lays the groundwork for future collaborations that aim to shape and enhance technology across industries.

As Plug and Play embarks on another decade, the book serves as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and community. Those interested in delving into the transformative journey of this platform can download the free digital version of the book, with a limited number of printed copies available for media distribution.

For more information on Plug and Play's ongoing initiatives, and to be part of the innovation narrative, visit their website.