The first-ever Southeast Investor Conference brought together more than 85 investors from across the region. The landmark event at Georgia Tech's Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC) was held July 29-30 and spotlighted a diverse lineup of early-stage and growth-stage companies, fostering new connections and real-time investment opportunities.

Investor groups represented included TiE Atlanta Angels, Atlanta Technology Angels, Keiretsu Forum Southeast, and ATL TrailblazHER Angels, a dynamic new women-led angel group making waves in the startup ecosystem.

Developing new investors is critical to sustaining and expanding the innovation ecosystem, particularly in the Southeast, where early-stage capital can be limited. Conference organizers recognized this need by intentionally creating space for aspiring angels to learn alongside seasoned investors. Expanding the investor base ensures a more resilient and dynamic funding environment for startups, fueling long-term growth for both entrepreneurs and the regional economy.

“The conference’s investor-first approach was a rare focus in a climate marked by fewer deals and challenging exit environments,” said Howard Lubert of Keiretsu Forum Southeast. “The event created a space not just for pitching, but for deep learning, strategic conversation and authentic connection.”

Programming included a deep dive into preparing portfolio companies for investment in today's evolving market and insights on exits and the shifting paradigms of angel investing. Ron Weissman, former President of the Angel Capital Association delivered a keynote address highlighting how volatile market conditions have impacted the investment landscape across the U.S. Paraj Mathur of Panoramic VC provided attendees with an in-depth analysis of investment trends specific to the Southeast.

"This was exactly what our ecosystem needed," said Barry Etra of Keiretsu Atlanta. "We saw real investor engagement, actual deals happening during the conference and a fantastic mix of veteran and new angel investors. The energy was high, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive."

Planning is underway for the next Southeast Investor Conference, with a target date set for February 2026.