In the fast-paced world of financial data, companies like Seattle-based PitchBook are constantly navigating the twin challenges of innovation and talent acquisition to stay competitive and deliver outstanding products. 

To meet these challenges, PitchBook has enlisted the support of iAffiliates, a strategic partnership initiative by the University of Washington Information School aimed at understanding, influencing and promoting socially responsible information management and technology innovation. 

A highlight of this collaboration is the pilot iSchool Coffee Chat program, where 13 PitchBook professionals and iSchool students met over coffee to discuss the latest trends and innovations. As Michael Mott, group product manager at PitchBook, noted, “iSchool students demonstrate an intense passion for understanding how data-focused technology connects with business solutions. They possess a valuable skill set that aligns with the rapid development of technological capabilities in AI, machine learning and data science, which is crucial for PitchBook to continue delivering impactful solutions.” 

This conversation benefited both the iSchool students and PitchBook. The PitchBook team left with fresh perspectives to consider in their work, and the students gained insight into what real-world challenges organizations are facing. 

“The coffee chat was a great method to meet professionals and establish connections that can lead to mentorship,” said Hanna Lee, a Master of Science in Information Management student who participated in the coffee chat program. “The personal connections and mentorship they offer are priceless for any student at any point in their journey.” 

Beyond coffee chats, PitchBook's engagement with the iSchool community through panel discussions and other iAffiliates-designed events has become a valuable feedback loop. The feedback received during panel discussions and events gives PitchBook direct insight into what students look for in their careers, helping shape its talent strategy that translated into tangible hiring success. 

Over the past six years, PitchBook has sponsored Capstone projects that allow students to explore and develop technical solutions for real-world business challenges. These projects have not only enhanced PitchBook's technical infrastructure but have also contributed to its innovative edge and market competitiveness and offered the students invaluable hands-on experience. 

“I learned a lot. I got to work with a real-life database with all of the complications that come with that,” said Anna Huang, an MSIM student who worked on a Capstone project with PitchBook’s subscription database for venture capitalists and investment bankers. “Part of the reason I got (my first job after graduation) was because of my work with PitchBook.” 

Through mentorship, sponsoring Capstone projects, and engaging in informal discussions, PitchBook is not just investing in its future workforce but is also actively participating in the educational journey of students. As Mott commented, “The iAffiliates resources at UW have been instrumental in identifying opportunities to engage with the iSchool community.”