The Western Australian technology industry continues to expand its global roots, with world renowned venture capitalist Bill Tai receiving an honorary doctorate from Curtin University, WA’s largest university institution.
Mr Tai, who has been an early investor in highly successful companies such as Twitter, Zoom and local product Canva, was awarded the doctorate for sharing expertise in advanced topics such as blockchain, cryptocurrency, data management and social media.
The Venture capitalist has a strong connection to Western Australia, participating in the Curtin University’s recent Ignite program, the annual West Tech Fest and bringing ACTAI Global, a collective of athletes, conservationists, technologists, artists and innovators to Perth’s shores.
Mr Tai has served on Curtin’s Commercialisation Advisory Board for a period of seven years.
Honorary Doctorates recognise exceptional service over a sustained period of time in addition to an exceptional record of service to professional and/or public life.
Bill Tai received the distinguished honour as part of a tripartite ceremony, that also saw respected visual arts advocate Alan Dodge and pharmacy pioneer Brian Wall awarded doctorates.
Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said Mr Tai had generously shared his expertise and extensive networks with early stage entrepreneurs and the university over a number of years.
It is a real privilege for Curtin staff and students to be able to share Mr Tai’s valuable advice as a highly successful technology venture investor and technology visionary,” Professor Terry said.
As reported by The West Australian, local resources entrepreneur Andrew ‘Twiggy’ Forrest attended the Curtin event stating that local industry can continue to attract top-tier talent.
“It shows that if we can get dozens of smart people together in such a terrific city as Perth, we could create something really substantial,” Mr Forrest said.
Mr Tai is tipped to continue his association with Curtin University, having promoted the organisation internationally at high-profile events such as the World Economic forum, where he serves on the technology pioneers committee.
