Inside Tech Alpharetta: How a Nonprofit Is Fueling Georgia's Startup Engine
Tech Alpharetta has produced 21 graduate companies and created over 2,000 jobs for Georgia. Here's how this 501(c)(6) nonprofit is building the future of Southern tech.
Inside Tech Alpharetta: How a Nonprofit Is Fueling Georgia's Startup Engine
In October 2024, Tech Alpharetta opened the doors to its new Innovation Center at 925 North Point Parkway. The custom-designed facility doubled the organization's footprint, but the real story isn't about square footage—it's about what happens inside.
From City Initiative to Independent Powerhouse
Tech Alpharetta began in 2012 as an initiative of the City of Alpharetta, making it the first organization of its kind in Georgia dedicated specifically to advancing the local tech industry. The Alpharetta Technology Commission laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving ecosystem.
In 2017, the organization merged with the Greater Alpharetta Tech Network, founded by Karen Cashion, to form the independent 501(c)(6) nonprofit that exists today. This merger combined municipal support with entrepreneurial energy, creating an organization uniquely positioned to serve the startup community.
Leadership That Understands the Journey
Karen Cashion serves as President & CEO of Tech Alpharetta. Her background—including education from Duke University School of Law—brings both strategic vision and practical understanding to the role. Under her leadership, Tech Alpharetta has expanded its impact while maintaining focus on what matters: helping startups succeed.
In December 2025, Tech Alpharetta announced the appointment of four new members to its Strategic Board of Directors. The board comprises senior executives from the region's leading technology and business organizations, providing strategic guidance to the organization's initiatives.
The Innovation Center Model
The Tech Alpharetta Innovation Center operates on a membership model designed to remove barriers for early-stage companies:
What Members Get
- Flexible workspace - Hot desks for members who need flexibility, private offices for teams ready to scale
- High-speed connectivity - Wi-Fi and wired internet built for tech companies
- Educational programming - Workshops covering everything from product development to fundraising
- Mentorship - Access to experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Pitch coaching - Preparation for investor presentations and demo days
- Investor connections - Introductions to angel investors and venture capitalists
- Networking events - Regular opportunities to connect with peers and potential partners
- The basics, covered - Free parking, snacks, and coffee
The Incubator Approach
Tech Alpharetta doesn't just provide space—it provides a pathway. The incubator model guides startups through key stages of development:
1. Idea validation - Testing assumptions and refining concepts
2. Product development - Building minimum viable products
3. Market entry - Finding customers and establishing traction
4. Growth preparation - Building the foundations for scale
5. Graduation - Transitioning to independent operations
Impact by the Numbers
The results speak clearly:
- 50+ startups currently in the incubator
- 21 graduate companies have successfully scaled
- 1,462 jobs created for the City of Alpharetta
- 2,064 jobs created for the state of Georgia
The Broader Ecosystem Connection
Tech Alpharetta doesn't operate in isolation. The organization connects its members to the broader Atlanta tech ecosystem, including:
- Atlanta Tech Village - The fourth-largest tech hub in the U.S.
- Georgia Tech - Access to research, talent, and innovation programs
- Investor networks - Angel groups and venture funds active in the Southeast
- Corporate partners - Enterprise companies looking for innovative solutions
Programs and Events
Throughout the year, Tech Alpharetta hosts programming designed to support startups at various stages:
Regular Events
- Pitch competitions - Opportunities to present to investors and receive feedback
- Networking mixers - Casual events connecting founders, professionals, and investors
- Educational workshops - Tactical sessions on specific topics like fundraising, marketing, or product development
- Demo days - Showcase events for incubator companies
Specialized Programming
Tech Alpharetta periodically offers focused programs addressing specific needs, from women in tech initiatives to vertical-specific accelerators.
Why It Matters for Alpharetta
Tech Alpharetta's success reflects and reinforces Alpharetta's position as the "Technology City of the South." Every graduate company adds to the local tech concentration. Every new job strengthens the talent pool. Every event builds community connections.
The organization demonstrates what's possible when municipal vision, nonprofit execution, and entrepreneurial energy align. Alpharetta invested in creating a startup support system, and that system is delivering measurable returns.
Getting Involved
For founders considering Tech Alpharetta:
1. Tour the facility - Schedule a visit to see the space and meet the team
2. Attend an event - Most events are open to the public
3. Apply for membership - Review the membership options and application process
4. Connect with graduates - Talk to companies that have been through the program
For professionals and established companies:
- Mentorship - Share your expertise with early-stage founders
- Sponsorship - Support programs and events
- Partnership - Explore collaboration opportunities with incubator companies
The Road Ahead
With the new Innovation Center operational and board expansion in place, Tech Alpharetta is positioned for continued growth. The organization's impact will continue to compound as more startups graduate, more jobs are created, and more of the community engages with the ecosystem.
For Alpharetta's tech future, Tech Alpharetta isn't just supporting the ecosystem—it's actively building it.
Tech Alpharetta is located at 925 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta, GA. Visit techalpharetta.com for membership information and upcoming events.