The Nexus of Innovation

Metro regions across the nation can boast about their corporations, universities, entrepreneurs, talent pipeline and other assets. But only in metro Atlanta will you find all these assets and many more converging into one remarkable ecosystem where innovators push one another to achieve more. 

By the Numbers

33

corporate innovation, technology and development centers

200+

Inc. 5000 companies 

100+

co-working spaces, incubators and accelerators

275K+

students enrolled in the regions 50+ colleges and universities

Leading in Talent

Atlanta’s future as a leading innovation economy is being secured with 275,000+ diverse students enrolled in the region’s 50+ colleges and universities. 

19K

STEAM graduates annually 

42%

of the population has a bachelor’s degree or higher 

51%

of the population is Black, Hispanic and/or Asian 

6

Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Thriving Startup & Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

A thriving unicorn factory with incubation spaces across the region filled with startups and high-impact bootstrapped companies, and billions in VC fueling growth. 

$4B+

in VC capital in 2021

10+

unicorns since 2013

#4

largest tech entrepreneurship center in the United States (Atlanta Tech Village)

#1

Largest Center for Black entrepreneurs in the United States (RICE)

Corporate Center

A leading global corporate market with some of the biggest companies in the world housing innovation centers, unmatched talent, and abundant resources  

33

corporate innovation centers 

150+

public companies 

31

Fortune 500/1000 companies headquartered

330+

U.S. or North America headquarters for international businesses

Creative DNA

A solidly built reputation as an influencer and leader in tech innovation and entertainment production spanning blockbuster music, film, and gaming releases

159

digital media companies

50

game studios

20K

music industry jobs

#3

filming center in the U.S.

We Help Innovate

Backed by ATL

This initiative provides customized assistance to high-potential companies to help accelerate growth and fuel economic impact across metro Atlanta. Learn more here.

ATL Unlocked

ATL Unlocked is a partnership between MAC and the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem to create access for creators, innovators and entrepreneurs so they can thrive.  ATL Unlocked connects entrepreneurs with innovation centers and entrepreneurs across the region to increase knowledge and access. 

Atlanta Innovation Week

Every October, over 30 independent events take place across metro Atlanta that celebrate and connect corporate innovators, entrepreneurs, investors and creators from around the world.