It Takes a Village

They say it when you have kids and it is no less true when you decide to become an entrepreneur (I still can't spell that word right the first time by the way). IT TAKES A VILLAGE. No one achieves anything alone. While we often read the headlines that only feature the names of the Founders or the CEOs of wildly successful ventures, rest assured, there is a massive team of employees, advisors, mentors, and cheerleaders that helped them out along the way. Success rarely happens in a silo, and who would want it to?? So much of doing this work is about the journey and it is a lot more fun with others along for the ride.

This spring, I had the opportunity to apply for Atlanta Tech Village's "It Takes A Village" pre-accelerator program. The program is designed to support early-stage startups gain direct access to a community, education, mentorship, and capital. I was thrilled to be accepted into their 10th cohort! I wasn't sure what to expect going into this program as I definitely felt like an outsider, but it has been an amazing experience. Not only have I learned so much about the process, but I have met the most wonderful people. Everyone is creative, imaginative, supportive. It reminds me of my days in the performing arts. Being surrounded by creative minds is fun and exciting! Whether they are choreographing a world premiere or coding a new app, the energy is palpable. I realized I missed this type of environment.

The ATV and Atlanta Ventures teams do an amazing job of cultivating a fun community that feels accessible to everyone. You don't have to be a Tech Bro to pull up a seat at the table and feel valued in the conversation. Building a support system and creating relationships with other founders has been the most valuable part of my journey thus far!! I'm so excited to see where these other amazing companies will go in the future and proud to say "I knew them when". Graduation is in just 2 weeks and I am nervous and excited (“nercited” as my 6YO would say) about what comes next!!