It’s often said, “Atlanta influences everything.” Now, the city is working to use its influential power to become one of the top five tech hubs in the nation.

In championing that effort, the City of Atlanta launched Avant South. The two-day conference centers culture, innovation and technology. This year’s conference theme is “AI in Action.” The annual event is being held on Oct. 12 and 13 in Tech Square in Midtown, Atlanta. It aims to bring together some of the top leaders shaping the future of technology and innovation in the South.

Donnie Beamer Jr., who serves as the City of Atlanta’s first-ever Senior Technology Advisor, oversees Avant South. As a guest on Wednesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” he talked more about the conference. He also spoke with host Rose Scott about why the city’s initiative is not just about luring in big tech companies—but rather having technology that is built in Atlanta and that will improve the quality of life for the city’s residents.

Read more at WABE.