IDEA Talks! Featuring Entrepreneur and Blue Economy Champion Paul Schuytema

What happens when a lifelong software developer brings startup instincts, creative fire, and a hacker’s mindset to rural economic development? The answer takes center stage at the next IDEA Talk featuring Paul Schuytema, Executive Director of the Economic Development Alliance of Lincoln County and tech entrepreneur.

Schuytema currently leads regional economic development efforts across Lincoln County and the entire Oregon Coast, with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Blue Economy – where marine science, sustainability, technology, and entrepreneurship collide. In addition to his regional leadership role, he serves as Chair of the Cascades West Economic Development District, Past President of the Yaquina Bay Economic Foundation, and a Board Member for Oregon Coast Community College.

But long before “economic developer” appeared on his business card, Schuytema was deep in the code. For more than two decades, he worked at the cutting edge of software development and digital creativity. He founded Magic Lantern Playware, a computer game company, and the Center for Creative Software Development at the University of Illinois. He has authored more than a dozen technical books, published over 200 articles, and designed commercial software products that have sold well over one million units worldwide. His custom content-management technology still powers 60+ active websites today.

At this IDEA Talk, Schuytema will connect the dots between technology, creativity, entrepreneurship, and place-based economic development, offering insights especially relevant to rural communities navigating rapid change. Attendees can expect a conversation that’s thoughtful, accessible, and refreshingly unpretentious – equal parts seasoned perspective and startup-era curiosity.

Modeled after TED style talks, IDEA Talks are designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, innovators, and anyone with an interest in the growing entrepreneurial culture in Klamath County. Attendees will gain fresh insights, actionable ideas, and meaningful connections to help strengthen their ventures and the local business ecosystem.

The event will take place on Tuesday, April 21 at 5:30pm at the Brevada Annex (2229 N. Eldorado in Klamath Falls). Appetizers and two drink tickets are included in the $15 per person admission. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for networking and the IDEA Talk will start at approximately 6:15 p.m. Visit www.klamathidea.org for tickets and more information.

The 2025-2026 IDEA Talks season is sponsored by Sage Credit Union and the Klamath Community College Small Business Development Center. Additional support is provided by the City of Klamath Falls, Klamath County, The Ford Family Foundation’s Growing Rural Oregon program, and through Oregon State Lottery Funds administered by Business Oregon.

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