How remote work and migration are changing an aspiring tech hub

• Related: How ‘Myst’ maker Cyan Worlds ended up building its own world in Spokane

• Previously: From timber to tech: Spokane’s startup scene is ready for its big breakthrough

Microsoft’s latest AI bet: The Redmond tech giant is pouring $1.5 billion into G42, the AI holding company based in the United Arab Emirates. The deal marks Microsoft’s latest strategic move in the AI race and has potential geopolitical implications. Read more.

The Bezos Earth Fund will award up to $100 million in grants as part of a new initiative to harness AI to address climate change and nature loss. Read more.

Tech Moves: Avalara names a president; Microsoft vet unveils new AI forum; Common Room hires product leader; and more key personnel changes.

Portland startup Radious expanded nationwide with a “curation service” that helps companies find ideal residential properties for in-person team meetings and more. The company, which runs an Airbnb-style marketplace for hosts, helps remote workers get out of the house but stay close to home. Read more.

Hot Links:

• Amazon’s HQ2 in Arlington, Va., which has an eventual target of 25,000 jobs, planned to add 2,500 new jobs last year — but instead shed more than 200 positions. (The Washington Post)

• Seattle, San Francisco and San Jose are AI hotspots in the U.S., but some other metro areas outside traditional tech hubs are getting in on the action. (Axios)

• Madrona Venture Labs, the Seattle-based startup studio founded out of Madrona Venture Group, celebrated its 10th anniversary. It has backed more than 30 companies. (MVL)

• University of Washington professor Su-In Lee earned the “Korean Nobel Prize” in engineering for her work in AI. (UW)

• E-bikes are sparking fires in Seattle. (KUOW)

• Researchers from Oregon State University are helping train a dog robot to walk on the moon. (BBC)