Plug and Play Tech Center is a global startup accelerator and corporate innovation platform that operates from its headquarters in Sunnyvale, California. The ecosystem was founded by Saeed Amidi in 2006, who also continues to play an active part in the accelerator's operations. Amidi's vision for Plug and Play was typefied by facilitating opportunities for startups to get mentorship, funding and exposure while connecting corporations to innovative technologies and business ideas.

Plug and Play's unique accelerator program differs from traditional accelerators. It does not take equity from its startups, however, startups receive fundraising support, business development opportunities, and mentorship, along with up to a 4-month stay in their office spaces, if physically viable. Notable success stories that have emerged from Plug and Play include PayPal, Dropbox, Lending Club, NatureBox, and SoundHound.

Over the years, Plug and Play has grown into a global network with more than 30 locations across the world including Germany, France, Japan, and China. It hosts more than 50 accelerator programs per year that cover a wide range of industries such as FinTech, HealthTech, and Automotive. The accelerator has made more than 250 investments per year, with an active portfolio of over 200 companies.

Most notable amongst Plug and Play's successful alumni is PayPal. Participating in Plug and Play's program allowed PayPal to connect with necessary industry experts, mentors, and venture capitalists which sparked their rapid growth and eventual acquisition by eBay for $1.5 billion in 2002.

Additionally, Plug and Play closely collaborates with more than 400 corporations for business development, incorporates promising technologies and discovery of startups. Some of these partnerships include Siemens, Bosch, Deutsche Bank, Philips, and Mercedes-Benz.

In terms of supporting ecosystem initiatives, Plug and Play has launched multiple initiatives aimed at encouraging social impact such as the 'Sustainability Innovation Platform', which is designed to fast-track startups with ways to achieve a global carbon-neutral economy. Moreover, Plug and Play continues to play an instrumental role in the ongoing development of Silicon Valley's tech ecosystem by actively participating in various community engagement events.

While considering the unique traits of Plug and Play, it's worth mentioning its international presence. By having multiple locations and partners globally, the accelerator assists startups with cross-border expansions, making it a truly global accelerator program. This global reach adds a crucial dimension of diversity and competition that benefits all stakeholders in the ecosystem.