Seattle has lost Microsoft’s prestigious Build developer conference due to growing concerns over crime, homelessness, and deteriorating conditions downtown. Starting in 2026, the tech giant will relocate the event, delivering a major blow to Seattle’s reputation and economy.
An internal email obtained by journalist Jonathan Choe confirmed the cancellation, citing “uncleanliness of the street scene,” visible drug use, and persistent encampments. The email, shared with Visit Seattle, stated that Microsoft’s leadership and attendees were disturbed by what they encountered walking between the Hyatt Regency and the Arch Building on 8th Street.
Microsoft has hosted Build in Seattle for years, drawing thousands of international tech leaders. Its exit marks one of the most significant corporate withdrawals from the city to date. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the change, stating, “Our plans for Build 2026 have changed,” while thanking the city for past support.
This year’s Build conference faced disruptions from pro-Hamas protesters, with some activists vandalizing the venue and attempting to breach security. Attendees reported harassment, aggression, and open-air drug use, compounding concerns about safety and city oversight.
Local business owner David Meinert criticized the city’s response, calling Mayor Bruce Harrell’s downtown revitalization efforts ineffective. “Massive spending on city agencies is failing due to poor communication and weak leadership,” he wrote. Meinert’s frustrations mirror those of other business leaders who have seen rising property crime, vagrancy, and dwindling foot traffic.
Visit Seattle admitted the conference cancellation was a “huge loss” and warned that other high-profile events might soon follow Microsoft’s lead. The withdrawal underscores mounting dissatisfaction among Seattle’s largest corporate partners.
The Build cancellation comes as multiple businesses flee the city. Starbucks, Target, Nike, and Amazon Go have shuttered Seattle locations citing crime and declining safety. Restaurateur Renee Erickson is closing two General Porpoise cafés and temporarily halting operations at Bateau due to similar challenges.
Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz previously blamed Democrat-led city governments for failing to combat rising crime and untreated mental illness. Seattle’s spiraling downtown conditions are increasingly likened to San Francisco’s long-running crisis of business flight.
