DC daily roundup: Startup founders offer praise; Howard U breaks application record; NavalX gets new director

Founders praise scene’s diversity and support

Starting a business isn’t easy. But in DC, the supportive community and abundant resources make it a little less intimidating, 2024 RealList Startups honorees and other tech leaders discussed during a Technical.ly-hosted dinner.

Attendees noted the several programs and events, like DC Startup Week, and virtual ways to stay connected, like Slack groups.

➡️ Learn more about the takeaways in my latest report here

Baltimore mayoral candidates on tech and business

At a candidate forum last week, Baltimore mayoral hopefuls answered questions about tech and business goals. These included workforce development programs and continuing to invest in Baltimore as a “tech city.”

You can get the details of their answers in our coverage of the event.

➡️ Learn more about the discussion in Alanah’s report here

News Incubator: What else to know today

• Howard University broke a record this year — the college received about 37,000 applications for its 2028 class. [Hilltop]

• NavalX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, announced a new director. [NavalX]

• Several AI leaders, including companies and universities, wrote a letter to Congress asking for more funding for the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The $47.7 million could go towards its AI Safety Institute. [Washington Post/Technical.ly]

• Google has fired 20 more workers who protested the company’s deal with Israel. [Associated Press]

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