2025 State of the Atlanta Black Tech Ecosystem Summit: Imagining Better Economic Mobility | Sponsored by Tito's Handmade Vodka
If you ruled the world, how would you improve economic mobility for Atlanta's Black tech community members?
Join us for the 2025 State of the Atlanta Black Tech Ecosystem Summit sponsored by Tito's Handmade Vodka, a powerful convening of thought leaders and change-makers dedicated to driving economic mobility within our community. Taking place on Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025, at The Gathering Spot, this year’s summit centers on the theme, "Imagining Better Economic Mobility."
Through dynamic discussions and forward-thinking strategies, community leaders in K-12 Computer Science Education, Tech Workforce Development, and Startups & Investing will unveil top priorities and actionable goals for the year ahead. Together, we’ll explore how innovation and collaboration can break down barriers, create pathways to opportunity, and ensure lasting prosperity for Black technologists and entrepreneurs in Atlanta.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, inspire, and be part of a movement shaping the future of Atlanta’s Black tech ecosystem. Let’s imagine—and build—a better tomorrow.
Who Should Attend:
Tech professionals, educators, investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and allies committed to advancing equity and economic mobility in Atlanta's Black tech community.
Let’s chart a bold path forward—together. This is the power of positive innovation.
New For This Year's Edition
Audience Q&A and Ideas
The restaurant, bar, and lobby will be used as an overflow room for conversations, eating, and drinking. The sessions will be shown in the bar area.
About the Theme: Imagine That
The theme music for this year's summit, "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)" by Nas, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our conversations. The song’s aspirational lyrics and vision of a world where equity and justice prevail resonate deeply with our goal of creating a positive, inclusive innovation ecosystem. As we imagine and work towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, the anthem serves as a powerful reminder of the possibilities that lie ahead when we unite to make intentional, impactful change. This alignment of music and mission underscores the summit's dedication to imagining and building a better, more inclusive future for all.
Agenda
6:00pm: Doors Open | Networking | Complimentary cocktails by Tito's Handmade Vodka + Brunch Menu
6:30pm: Opening Remarks by Joey Womack (Goodie Nation), Ryan Wilson (The Gathering Spot), Raeshawn Pelote (ATL BLK TCH / Goodie Nation) and Andrea Perry (Spoken Word Artist), Isaac Hayes III (Fanbase)
6:50pm: State of Atlanta's Black K-12 Computer Science Ecosystem Panel including Audience Q&A / Ideas featuring Andrea Miller (South Atlanta High School), Errika Moore (STEM Funders Network), Shana Vidal White (Kapor Center), Lavita Williams (GA Dept of Ed), Anona Shugart Walker (Tech Education Leader)
7:30pm: State of Atlanta's Black Tech Workforce including Audience Q&A / Ideas featuring Toby Egbuna (Chezie), Jammie Jelks (Black Product Managers Network), Meloni Boatswain (Blacks in Tech), Mark Lawson (Technologists of Color)
8:10pm: State of Atlanta's Black Tech Startups & Investors including Audience Q&A / Ideas featuring Raeshawn Pelote, Khadijah Robinson, Candace Mitchell (Myavana), Baheejah Crumbley (BLCK VC), Grant Warner (Center for Black Entrepreneurship), Barry Givens (Invest Atlanta Board Member)
8:45pm: Action Items / New Initiatives + Closing Remarks by Donnie Beamer (City of Atlanta) and Joey Womack
9:00pm: Summit Ends + Closing Reception
Music by DJ Empress Rah
Coat Check will be provided
Security Guards will be on deck
In Partnership with The Gathering Spot
Sponsored by Tito's Handmade Vodka
*ATL BLK TCH is a program of Goodie Nation under the United States of Good campaign, and is funded by the Kapor Foundation
Donate to the ATL BLK TCH Program: https://www.pledge.to/abt