Blockchain Building Blocks: WTIA Forms Blockchain Council

Advocating for industry-wide blockchain development, support, awareness and expansion in Seattle, the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) has selected more than a dozen Washington companies to comprise the new Washington Blockchain Council . 

The initial list of Washington Blockchain Council members includes: Microsoft, T-Mobile, Perkins Coie, Bittrex, ArcBlock, Lightning Network, CryptoSlate, Strix Leviathan, DATAfi Labs, Tenta Browser, Stably, WA State Department of Commerce, City of Seattle, Lawrence Lerner, University of Washington/CoMotion and the WTIA.

Although the global blockchain technology market is predicted to grow to $2.3 billion by 2021, there’s still apprehension and misinformation around the industry.

Feelings of mistrust and confusion have halted blockchain from reaching its potential in Seattle—one of the top technology cities in the country. Through blockchain advocacy, marketing and benefit programs, the Washington Blockchain Council will seek to educate key stakeholders and unify blockchain’s voice to promote the region as a global hub. 



Although the global blockchain technology market is predicted to grow to $2.3 billion by 2021, there’s still apprehension and misinformation around the industry. Feelings of mistrust and confusion have halted blockchain from reaching its potential in Seattle—one of the top technology cities in the country. Through blockchain advocacy, marketing and benefit programs, the Washington Blockchain Council will seek to educate key stakeholders and unify blockchain’s voice to promote the region as a global hub. 

“Blockchain has wrongfully become synonomous with cryptocurrency, and cryptocurrency is seen as evil,” said Michael Schutzler, CEO of WTIA.

“Not only is that inaccurate—the hype is preventing VCs from investing in technology and causing legislators to consider unnecessary regulations. Blockchain could drastically boost Seattle’s economy if we get the facts to the right people. The opportunity is here, but it’s going to take awareness that comes from careful planning and honest conversations. It’s going to take this council.”  

The Washington Blockchain Council will take immediate action to proactively engage with all relevant blockchain companies and stakeholders, cultivating a supportive, regulatory environment at the city and state level, and coordinating with federal policy efforts. Further, the council will produce events and promote use cases to demonstrate blockchain’s positive impact across the economy. WTIA will also provide benefits and services to support the growth and attraction of blockchain companies.  [24×7]