Last week, the Seattle tech scene saw acquisitions, relocations and other new moves. Read more to catch up on the latest. This is the Built In Seattle weekly refresh.
AWS leaves Parler app in the dark. Following the chaotic happenings in the U.S. Capitol earlier this month, several tech companies are atoning for the contributions they had in spreading the voices that incited the violent insurrection. Since social media platforms including Twitter and Facebook barred extreme speech similar to what caused the initial riot, many conservative users transitioned to Parler instead. Amazon Web Services, which hosted the platform, has since retracted its association with the app, leaving it completely unusable. On January 18, Fox News reported that Parler has switched its domain registration to provider Epik and is planning to make its way back online by the end of the month.
Mailchimp acquired Chatitive. The company that specializes in marketing software plans to use the newly adopted messaging technology to help small businesses better reach potential customers. Seattle-based Chatitive originally spun out from Madrona Venture Labs and was previously known as Essential. Its platform allows brands to connect with their audiences over SMS. [GeekWire]
Seattle Tech Quote of the Week
Secure pulled in $3.5M. The seed funding round for the Kirkland-based fintech startup will go toward supporting its new platform. With Secure, employers and employees can build emergency savings accounts that are easy to deposit into, and accessible whenever an emergency may arise. The round was led by SeaChange Fund. [Built In Seattle]
Accolade is planning to acquire 2nd.MD. Accolade’s platform provides tools to help users better understand, navigate and make use of the healthcare system and workplace benefits. With the addition of 2nd.MD’s expert medical opinion services, the company anticipates developing an integrated and comprehensive healthcare navigation system. The acquisition is projected to close by the end of next month. [Accolade]
Artisan Talent expands into Seattle. The staffing agency focuses on staffing members of the creative community. As more companies are relocating to Seattle and looking to expand their digital, creative and marketing teams, Artisan situated its new office in the midst of Seattle’s thriving tech environment. The office is located in Pioneer Square. [PR Newswire]
