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Dear Atlanta Startup Community,

As we embark on another transformative year, I am filled with both excitement and a deep sense of responsibility towards our vibrant startup ecosystem. The dawn of 2024 marks a new era for tech startups, significantly sparked by the revolutionary advancements in artificial intelligence. This evolution is not just reshaping industries; it's redefining the very fabric of how we innovate, collaborate, and succeed.

In the face of such groundbreaking changes, it's imperative that we, as a community of leaders, founders, and innovators, align our efforts towards a unified set of priorities and goals. The strength of our ecosystem will be measured not just by the boldness of our ideas but by the tangible impact we create. Our top metrics for success—startup revenue, the number of employees, and investment dollars raised—reflect our commitment to not only fostering growth but ensuring sustainability and resilience within our community.

Building a robust startup ecosystem requires more than just nurturing talent and ideas; it demands a strong foundation of support and investment. Recognizing this, one of our key objectives for the year is to cultivate a vigorous angel investor community. By educating tech professionals on the nuances of angel investing, we aim to unlock a wealth of resources that can propel our startups to new heights. This initiative is not just about funding; it's about creating a network of mentorship, experience, and support that can guide our entrepreneurs through the challenges of scaling their ventures.

Atlanta has always been a beacon of progress and inclusivity, famously known as the "city too busy to hate." As we step into this new era, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion remains unwavering. We believe that the strength of our ecosystem lies in its diversity, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where every voice is heard, and every idea has the opportunity to flourish. By embracing our differences and leveraging the unique perspectives they bring, we can foster innovation that is not only groundbreaking but inclusive and equitable.

The journey ahead is filled with potential and promise. Together, as a community united by our passion for innovation and our commitment to making a difference, we can navigate the complexities of this new era. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with openness, determination, and a shared vision for success. Here's to a year of remarkable achievements, groundbreaking innovations, and, most importantly, collective growth.

Let’s go!

Joey Womack
Board President, Startup Atlanta