12 Best Startups in Atlanta
Why Atlanta is a Startup Hub
Atlanta’s combination of talent, resources, affordability, and a welcoming business environment creates an ecosystem that is highly conducive to tech startups.
This city offers a fertile ground for innovation and growth, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
Here are the factors that contribute to the city’s standing.
Ecosystem
We talk about ecosystems a lot, and Atlanta’s tech version of that has been growing. Organizations like the Atlanta Tech Village have supported that forward motion. More on that below.
These tech hubs offer a collaborative environment for networking and the transfer of knowledge.
Talent
Atlanta’s universities are highly sought after and consistently provide a talented workforce ready to advance technology.
With its strong engineering and computer science programs, Georgia Tech is one example. Institutions like Georgia Tech ensure that skilled employees are always in supply.
Atlanta, a good place to live
Atlanta offers a significantly lower cost of living than other major tech hubs like NYC and Silicon Valley.
This means that startups can also make their budgets last longer without compromising on the talent.
Diversity
A point worth reiterating. Atlanta’s diverse population is a huge asset for startups. A variety of backgrounds can lead to more creative input and problem-solving skills.
Moreover, a broader customer base also benefits companies. The city is highly committed to inclusion and diversity, which is visible in programs and initiatives that support minorities in tech.
Capital
It’s about money, and to its benefit, Atlanta has seen an increase in venture capital investments. Local firms actively invest in startups.
Moreover, the presence of corporate innovation centers offers opportunities for collaboration and investment.
Make It Special
Atlanta has become known for specialization and specific tech sectors. Fintech companies are huge here, as well as healthcare tech startups.
Healthcare startups profit from their close proximity to organizations like the CDC.
Quality of life and business-friendly environment
What do you need to attract startups? The city must offer a good quality of life and favorable policies for business.
Basically, you should want to work there and stay there long term.
Transportation
Who hasn’t had a layover in Atlanta? Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the world’s major transportation hubs.
And that makes it easier for startups to connect with partners, customers, and investors alike. There is always a flight available.
Being accessible is a major draw for national and international players.
History of Atlanta Startups
Atlanta has long been a commerce and industry hub. However, it only became the vibrant center for startup innovation in the late 20th century.
In the last few decades, Atlanta’s startup scene has experienced significant growth and transportation, evolving from its modest beginning to a thriving hub that attracts entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations alike.
History of Atlanta Startups
Let’s explore the history of Atlanta’s startup scene here and highlight key milestones and factors that have contributed to its development.
A Commercial Start
Let’s dial it back to the late 19th century. The city was a mega center for trade, agriculture, transportation, and manufacturing.
Later, huge corporations like Coca-Cola and Delta contributed to the city’s vibrant ecosystem and its growth in the mid-20th century.
But Atlanta had to wait until the tech boom of the 90s for the startup scene to appear on people’s maps.
Tech Abounds
The 90s marked the turning point for Atlanta as it embraced new tech sectors. The city attracted tech companies, and startups flourished.
You might think, why Atlanta? The same reasons why it was a major commercial hub prior. First, its strategic location as a major transportation and logistics hub made it an ideal base for companies seeking efficient connectivity.
Also, Atlanta’s talent pool of highly skilled workers is widely known. Institutions like Georgia Tech and other pro schools provided that talent for the new tech-driven industries.
Finally, Atlanta’s cost of living was lower than its counterparts like Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Austin. All of these factors made Atlanta attractive for established companies and startups alike.
Atlanta also fostered a supportive business environment, which encouraged major tech innovations. This meant massive growth for Atlanta.
Georgia Tech
Let’s reiterate one of the previous factors here. The Georgia Institute of Technology became a key player in tech entrepreneurship.
And here is why: Georgia Tech is renowned for its academic excellence in fields like engineering, science, and, as its name suggests, tech. Its global rankings validate that standing annually. This attracts top students and top professors.
The university conducts cutting-edge research in AI, biotech, and robotics. It’s an epicenter for innovation as it contributes to the advancement of tech.
Georgia Tech produces highly skilled and sought-after talent, and those graduates then fill key roles in relevant industries.
The ATDC (Advanced Technology Development Center) is its own startup incubator and accelerator that has assisted in launching several successful ventures. This fosters entrepreneurship and creates jobs.
To summarize, Georgia Tech’s importance lies in its role as a leading academic and research institution, a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, a source of talent and expertise, and a driver of economic growth and development.
Its contributions extend beyond the campus, impacting industries, communities, and society as a whole.
Atlanta Tech Village
In 2013, this co-working space and accelerator for startups was created and quickly became highly important in providing valuable resources and mentorship opportunities.
As a collaborative space, innovations have been nurtured by providing plenty of networking options. From there, the Atlanta startup scene was unstoppable.
Growth
Within the same time period, Atlanta saw an influx of venture capital investments. Industries such as fintech, healthcare tech, and cybersecurity attracted plenty of investors and new startup formations.
The Atlanta startup ecosystem was ready for major expansion, and more venture capital firms and angel investors wanted to be part of this development. Atlanta was now one of the world’s dominating tech hubs.
Collaboration
Major corporations didn’t wait long to tap into Atlanta’s new tech energy. So, Coca-Cola, Delta, and others created corporate innovation centers.
Those are hubs where the companies can collaborate with startups for new innovations. Win-win for both parties. The centers are catalysts for new tech.
They provide resources much like the Atlanta Tech Village. The result means that the corporations remain competitive, and new startups become competitive.
Today’s Atlanta
There has been major growth again within several industries, and it’s exciting to watch. Many startups have rebounded and are even booming after the pandemic.
Some of the challenges for Atlanta are the other tech hubs. There are consistent talent acquisition and capital movements outside and within different major hubs.
However, all the advantages previously mentioned still hold for Atlanta today. Atlanta’s bustling startup scene is ready for its new shine.
Best Startups in Atlanta
Let’s dive deeper into our favorite startup picks in singular sectors. Atlanta has become a major player in the startup games.
This list is limited to a selected few. Some of them are even hiring if you are looking for an exciting job opportunity. Check their respective pages for career listings.
Best Tech Startups Atlanta
Goodr
Goodr is a pioneering startup committed to tackling food waste and hunger. Their innovative platform connects surplus food from businesses with organizations and communities in need.
Goodr aims to eliminate food waste while simultaneously addressing food insecurity. This Atlanta-based startup is making a significant impact by promoting sustainability and social responsibility, aligning business interests with environmental and humanitarian goals.
Plural
This startup created a platform that leverages data and insights to enhance the efficiency of policy and legislative analysis.
This makes it easier for organizations to navigate the very complex landscape of governmental decisions.
Plural promotes engagement with policymakers. Moreover, the company aims to empower businesses to stay informed.
Hermeus
Do you want to travel even faster than possible on a plane right now? Twice as fast as the Concorde? Enter Hermeus.
This future-forward aerospace company is dedicated to revolutionizing high-speed air travel. Hermeus is at the forefront of developing advanced tech to create the next generation of aircraft.
Of course, sustainability is also key here alongside speed and efficiency. So, is rapid global transportation the new frontier? Hermeus is betting on it—and so are its investors.
Healthcare Tech Startups Atlanta
Impiricus
Impiricus is the developer of a physician-centered technological system to enhance engagement from the pharmaceutical industry directly to the physicians.
The company’s AI-based platform assists doctors in identifying the correct pharmaceutical drugs and other therapies, accessing resources, managing patients’ therapy requests, and allowing them to ask questions directly to understand potential treatments.
This enables healthcare providers to offer better treatment to patients and pharmaceutical companies to streamline their products and materials as they provide information and resources to doctors.
BeyondMD
BeyondMD is a cutting-edge healthcare startup focused on revolutionizing the way doctors and healthcare providers engage with technology.
Their innovative solutions leverage AI and data-driven insights to enhance doctor-patient interactions, streamline workflows, and improve overall healthcare outcomes.
BeyondMD is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of healthcare technology for a brighter and healthier future.
Rizewell
Rizewell is an exciting startup based in Atlanta, dedicated to promoting personal and professional growth.
The company’s innovative platform offers tailored resources and support to help individuals and businesses thrive.
Rizewell’s mission is to empower people to reach their full potential and elevate their success, all within the vibrant ecosystem of Atlanta’s entrepreneurial scene.
From a mobile app to a VR/AR component, Rizewell offers a comprehensive and tech-savvy wellness future.
Best Fintech Startups Atlanta
Mission Lane
Mission Lane is a dynamic Atlanta-based startup focused on redefining the world of financial services.
With a commitment to accessible and transparent financial solutions, Mission Lane empowers individuals with innovative tools and resources to take control of their financial future.
They want to make financial progress attainable for everyone, offering a fresh perspective on personal finance.
Greenwood
It’s time mobile banking got more inclusive. Greenwood addresses financial disparities and promotes economic empowerment.
The company’s innovative platform offers financial tools, resources, and services designed to improve financial well-being and access to opportunities, particularly within underserved communities.
It is particularly designed for Black and LatinX people and business owners. They want to make financial inclusion a reality for all, making a positive impact on Atlanta’s diverse and dynamic startup ecosystem.
Momnt
What is Momnt? The Atlanta startup provides lending solutions for businesses that are affordable and transparent.
Their forward-thinking approach empowers businesses to provide accessible and cost-effective lending options to their customers, facilitating growth and financial stability.
Basically, they are streamlining the whole lending process, and this is exactly how Momnt is reshaping how businesses offer financial services. They make it easier for entrepreneurs to access the capital they need.
By streamlining the lending process and reducing friction, Momnt is reshaping how businesses offer financial services, making it easier for entrepreneurs to access the capital they need.
Best Biotech Startups Atlanta
Antios Therapeutics
The Atlanta-based startup is a pioneer in the field of antiviral therapies. It specializes in developing innovative treatments for viral infections, including hepatitis B.
The company’s research and commitment to healthcare innovation make it a key player in Atlanta’s biotech sector.
Micron Biomedical
Micron Biomedical is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm with a swift trajectory toward bringing its unique, applicator-free, dissolving microarray patch technology to market.
This technology is meticulously designed to enhance therapeutic efficacy, simplify logistical processes, and boost patient adherence, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes significantly. They just had a successful first clinical trial for an injection-free measles and rubella vaccine for kids. That means vaccine delivery will become much easier.
What Atlanta is known for?
What is Atlanta known for? Let’s break down the city’s DNA. Atlanta played a major role in the American Civil Rights Movement. It is the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The city’s commitment to civil rights and social justice is part of its identity and heritage. Atlanta is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, which is beneficial for startups.
The city is also an economic hub, and we will learn the history of how Atlanta got to be the startup hub it is today.
If you’ve been to the city, you know that there is a ton of greenery, outdoor spaces, and various nature preserves.
And let’s not forget the food. Not only can you indulge in Southern classics but you can also sample innovative fusion cuisines in the city’s many restaurants and food markets. Atlanta has become a great space for food startups.
And for the veggie-forward eaters among us, Atlanta is one of the top vegan-food cities in the country.
When your belly is full, why not explore the arts? The city has a thriving scene with top-notch museums, theatres, and galleries.
The same goes for music, film, and TV. Atlanta has become significant for the entertainment industry. It is even called the “Hollywood of the South.”
Atlanta’s attractive tax incentives, diverse landscapes, and versatile urban and rural locations have made it a favorite destination for film and television productions.
Pinewood Atlanta Studios and Tyler Perry Studios are attractive sights to film. Some of the Marvel films and TV shows like Stranger Things have all filmed scenes in Atlanta.
This has also a significant economic benefit.
These unique characteristics, along with its constantly evolving nature, make Atlanta a special city with a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, innovation, and quality of life.
Try it in Atlanta
The bustling metropolis of Atlanta, Georgia is a city that combines an urban hotspot with Southern charm. It’s where the peaches grow, literally, but the city is known for much more than its sweet fruit emblem.
Atlanta is right in the heart of the American South and has always been a bastion of progressive thought and leadership.
Atlanta is the vibrant capital of Georgia and a city where history meets innovation with a modern twist on Southern charm. And with charm comes hospitality.
Come to Atlanta, and you will most likely feel invited and welcomed. This is, of course, mirrored in the business environment. Stick with us as we cover the best startups in Atlanta.
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