In this mini-episode of the Extraordinary Pursuits podcast, Venture Atlanta CEO Allyson Eman zeroes in on why networking and preparation are critical elements of a healthy startup ecosystem.
She explains how and why Venture Atlanta has connected early-stage innovation companies with investors since 2007. Pulling from the near 20-year history of the event, she offers useful insights for founders and investors to prepare to succeed at Venture Atlanta specifically and venture capital in general. Listen in for her useful guidance.
Key Points
- Differentiation and solid connections matter more than having $1M in revenue.
- Do your research so you can be smart about who you reach out to and why.
- Looking at a company online isn’t enough – talk to them, look at their growth, and review their financials.
- Most startups are unlikely to experience hockey stick growth – and investors know better when they see that projected in a pitch deck.
- If you connect with someone, look them up afterward, make sure they are the right person, and follow up with them.
About Allyson Eman
Allyson Eman is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, sales leadership, and business development. Since 2007, she has served as Executive Director, and later CEO, of Venture Atlanta, the largest venture capital conference on the East Coast. Under her leadership, the conference has grown significantly, attracting over 1,500 attendees and helping emerging technology companies raise over $7.5 billion. Before Venture Atlanta, Allyson was key in expanding SouthStar Funding from a small team to a nationally respected mortgage lender and managed marketing for SouthTrust Bank's Georgia branches. She holds a BS from the University of Florida. LinkedIn
About Venture Atlanta
The Venture Atlanta Conference has evolved from a two-day, high-caliber event into a full-blown community dedicated to bringing innovative companies, disruptive technologies, and top-tier investors together. The 2025 Venture Atlanta event is happening on October 15th and 16th. Sponsorships are open, and startups can apply to pitch starting in May.
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