Shortly after joining the University of Colorado Law School faculty in 1999, I recognized something special was happening in Boulder—the building of a great startup community. 

Sensing the potential of this movement, I eagerly immersed myself, finding mentors, learning, and building friendships. From this, with the help and support of local startup leaders, we built a new center at CU, which I led. We called it the Silicon Flatirons Center for Law, Technology, and Entrepreneurship.

Through Silicon Flatirons, we developed the New Technology Meetup, the Entrepreneurial Law Clinic, and the Entrepreneurs Unplugged Series, helping build Colorado’s startup climate. I also helped establish CU Boulder’s New Venture Challenge, co-chaired Governor Ritter’s Innovation Council, launched Startup Colorado to bolster businesses throughout our state, and started the Blackstone Entrepreneurs Network to scale high-growth companies. While the Innovation Council concluded at the end of Governor Ritter’s term, the other initiatives remain vibrant and impactful to this day.

When I ran for Attorney General as my first elected office, some asked why someone so deeply involved in the startup community would pursue public office. My friend and renowned entrepreneur, Brad Feld, who collaborated with me on the above initiatives, supported my candidacy as one worth getting excited about. I was humbled when he referenced me as “a leader for all Coloradans,” someone willing to step outside of traditional expectations of an Attorney General. 

Brad said I would champion efforts like the fight for access to broadband Internet technology, especially in rural Colorado, and build partnerships to drive economic success. Now, as your AG, I’m proud to have done just that, including starting the Colorado Partnership for Rural Revitalization (as explained in this article).

As Colorado’s next Governor, I will support entrepreneurs and new businesses in all parts of our state, bringing my startup experience to bear. I will challenge us to ensure that our laws and regulations keep pace with our dynamic economy and meet their intended purpose. I will focus on removing barriers for entrepreneurs, such as cutting unnecessary red tape to start a new business.

On Saturday, May 31st, from 3:30 – 5:00 PM in downtown Denver, I will join my friend Brad Feld for an interactive conversation. Together, we’ll reflect on the lessons we’ve learned and explore how my ideas and experience will shape my approach as Governor. 

I’ll also ask Brad questions about his new book, Give First: The Power of Mentorship, which captures the essence and impact of mentorship within startup communities. Copies of Brad’s book will be available for purchase with the opportunity to get your copy autographed by him. Please RSVP here to join us.

Brad and I are excited to hear from you. If you have questions you’d like us to address during the conversation, you can send them in advance to [email protected]. Our conversation will tie into a core pillar of my campaign for Governor: the power of mentorship to support young people. As I explain here, we have crucial work to do on this front. I believe in the power of mentorship, in nurturing our startup communities and in guiding the next generation toward success.

I’m excited for this conversation and event, and I hope you’ll join us. Please help us spread the word, share the invite, and have an impactful conversation about the power of mentorship. And speaking of mentorship, I’m pleased to announce our campaign has launched the Phil for Colorado Fellowship, our student engagement program designed to mentor and support our future leaders. If you’d like to support this work, please consider making a donation.