Rick Turoczy

Rick Turoczy is a prominent figure in the Portland startup ecosystem, serving as the Cofounder and General Manager of the Portland Incubator Experiment (PIE). He has been actively involved in supporting startups in the region for over 25 years, focusing on community development and mentorship for entrepreneurs.

Background and Career

Turoczy co-founded PIE in 2009, which is designed to foster collaboration between startups and established organizations. The incubator provides mentorship, resources, and funding to selected startups, helping them develop their business models over a three-month program. PIE has partnered with major corporations like Google, Nike, and Coca-Cola, and has evolved into a key player in Portland's entrepreneurial landscape.23

In addition to his role at PIE, Turoczy is involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing the startup community. He is a co-founder of Built Oregon, which supports local manufacturers and entrepreneurs, and he runs the Silicon Florist blog, which covers the Portland tech scene.145 His work also includes participation in the Zebras Unite movement, advocating for sustainable business practices that prioritize social good over the traditional "unicorn" startup model.1

Personal Approach

Described as a "minimizer of friction" and an "introvert," Turoczy is known for his calm demeanor and genuine support for others in the startup community. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling and community engagement in building successful businesses. His contributions have earned him recognition as a vital connector within the Portland startup ecosystem, where he continues to inspire and mentor emerging entrepreneurs.124