Barry Glick

Barry J. Glick is a prominent figure in the technology and mapping industries, best known as the co-founder of MapQuest, the first commercial online mapping service. He holds a Ph.D. in Geography from the State University of New York at Buffalo and has had a significant impact on the development of digital mapping technologies.

Early Career and MapQuest

Glick began his career in the late 1980s by founding a software startup that focused on locational data and map visualization for business and government needs. This venture eventually led to a partnership with R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co., which helped him create GeoSystems Global Corp. Under Glick's leadership, this company developed MapQuest.com, which went public in 1999 and was acquired by AOL for $1.1 billion in 2000.13

Contributions and Ventures

Following his success with MapQuest, Glick has founded and led several other software and data-focused startups. His experience spans over 25 years in the mapping, location technology, and navigation sectors, where he has held various leadership roles, including CEO positions at multiple companies.56

Role at Tech Launch Arizona

Currently, Glick serves as a Mentor in Residence at Tech Launch Arizona, where he leverages his extensive experience to assist emerging startups affiliated with the University of Arizona. His role involves providing mentorship to help these companies navigate their business development processes and achieve sustainable growth.23 Glick is particularly focused on guiding new entrepreneurs through the complexities of technology commercialization and startup formation.4

Additional Roles

In addition to his responsibilities at Tech Launch Arizona, Glick is involved with several ventures as a managing partner or board member, including Carillon Ventures and smartRealm. His broad expertise not only supports startups but also contributes to advancements in location-based services and navigation technologies.56

Through his mentorship and leadership, Barry J. Glick continues to influence the tech landscape while fostering innovation among new generations of entrepreneurs.