'Backed By ATL' Harnesses Region's Assets, Connections To Help High Potential Companies In Atlanta Grow And Thrive
Powered by the Metro Atlanta Chamber, new initiative sets its sights on elevating both local companies and the region's innovation ecosystem
ATLANTA, Sept. 25, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- To help ensure high growth companies in metro Atlanta have the resources and counsel to reach their full potential, the Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) today launched a new program called Backed By ATL.
The innovative effort marshals the resources of MAC, local companies and leaders to provide customized assistance to a select group of high potential metro companies in sectors where the region is particularly strong – including bioscience, fintech, technology, supply chain and mobility and IoT. In addition to accelerating the growth and economic impact of these companies, Backed By ATL aims to increase the region's reputation as a place where high growth companies thrive.
"Metro Atlanta's innovation ecosystem is teeming with the kind of growth that can only be driven by the collaboration and cooperation of our entire business community," said Hala Moddelmog, president and CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. "We're working to maintain this remarkable momentum as we elevate the brands that are redefining the way the world is doing business."
The first cohort of companies, which begin the Backed By ATL experience this month, includes Nolan Transportation Group, Patientco, Pindrop, SalesLoft, Springbot, TruRating and Urjanet. These seven companies were chosen from among 100 nominations because of their potential to grow and create jobs, alignment with metro Atlanta's strategic industries and committed and engaged senior leadership.
"No two companies are ever exactly alike. But if you talk to enough entrepreneurs who have built successful enterprises you hear common themes emerging time and time again – and more often than not they have to do with exposure to the right people and opportunities at the right time," said Karole Lloyd, co-chair of the Backed By ATL Task force and retired partner, Ernst & Young, LLP.
Among the unique benefits the seven Backed By ATL companies will receive is personalized support tailored to their specific situation and needs. The companies will gain exposure to large corporation CXOs, investors and economic development partners, receive help recruiting and acquiring talent and have access to training and counsel on areas ranging from leadership development to sales and marketing. MAC will also offer expertise around public policy and public relations and provide forums for the companies to discuss important issues.
"One of our greatest strengths as a region is our tremendous ecosystem and cooperative spirit that already exists here for companies at all stages of their growth," explained Jonathan Goldman, co-chair of the Backed by ATL Task Force and CEO of Genesis Capital. "Backed By ATL magnifies and focuses those resources and connections – to support not only these companies but also companies that come after them."
The Backed By ATL Task Force, which includes both local business leadership and MAC staff, will provide overall direction for the program, monitor results and identify opportunities for improvements over time.
For more information about metro Atlanta's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, visit https://www.metroatlantachamber.com/innovation-entrepreneurship.
About the Metro Atlanta Chamber
The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) serves as a catalyst for a more prosperous and vibrant region. To advance economic growth and improve metro Atlanta's quality of place, MAC is focused on starting, growing and recruiting companies to the 29-county metro Atlanta region. The Chamber is also focused on expanding the region's innovation economy by promoting and strengthening connections to drive Atlanta's innovation and entrepreneurial culture. MAC is committed to being an active voice for the business community, serving as an advocate for a competitive business climate and promoting Atlanta's story. For more information, visit www.MetroAtlantaChamber.com.
SOURCE Metro Atlanta Chamber
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