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More than 500 Black techies, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, turned out for the latest iteration of The 2024 State of the Atlanta Black Tech Ecosystem Summit at the Black-owned membership club The Gathering Spot.
Hosted by Joey Womack’s Goodie Nation and powered by UNCF, last Thursday’s event brought together leading players in Atlanta’s tech and startup ecosystem. Everyone from founders, investors, K-K12 experts, Black tech professionals, and more.
A slew of incredible speakers graced the stage, sharing their wisdom and insights. This included Ryan Wilson, Donnie Beamer Jr., Jaisa Gooden, Barry Givens, and Anastasia Simon, among others. Conversations centered on startup founders, investors, product management, software engineering, and empowering through education.
What Participants Said About The Event
Speaking about her experience at the event, Dr. Maxine Cain, Founder & CEO of STEM Atlanta Women, said, “This event was crucial in re-establishing Atlanta as the top Black tech ecosystem globally. The event focused on reigniting connections and setting clear objectives in the tech world, from corporate to K-16 education. Also, the speakers’ collective wisdom and experience provided invaluable insights into the future of tech and the Atlanta Black Tech ecosystem.”
Goodie Nation founder Joey Womack speaking at The 2024 State of the Atlanta Black Tech Ecosystem Summit
Thomie Venisee, a FinTech Executive Leader also shared his experience at the event, “Hats off to Joey Womack Goodie Nation and UNCF for organizing an amazing event focused on Atlanta Black Tech. The event brought together an audience of amazing leaders and innovators, leading to great conversations. Thank you for creating a space for important discussions around technology and diversity.”
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Likewise, Frederick Jones, an Executive Leadership Sales, Operations and Finance Strategist said, “Atlanta Black Tech is the epicenter where tech panelists engage in honest, impactful conversations about the state of affairs with black founders in tech. The energy in the room was palpable as we came together to celebrate the resilience, innovation, and sheer brilliance of black entrepreneurs and tech leaders. These gatherings remind us that we can achieve remarkable things when we unite. It was good to be a part of the atmosphere in a community pushing boundaries, fostering inclusion, and making meaningful strides in the tech ecosystem.”
The Vision Behind Atlanta Black Tech Event
The journey to unite Black ATLiens in tech began in 2012 with the first edition of the summit. The goal is to facilitate business, drive growth, and build bridges across founders, corporate leaders, investors, and the entire tech ecosystem.
Attendees at The 2024 State of the Atlanta Black Tech Ecosystem Summit
However, the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the momentum. This happened simultaneously with a tectonic shift in the technology space – difficult economic conditions combined with the rise of artificial intelligence.
Still, after last week’s event, the Womack said, “The scene was so thick Atlanta Black Tech by Goodie Nation is back, y’all. Much love to The Gathering Spot and United Negro College Fund (UNCF) for their support. Now, the real work begins.”
