Austin Technology Council (ATC)
Founded: 1992
Original Name: Austin Software Council
Founders: Dr. George Kozmetsky and the Austin Technology Incubator
Headquarters: Austin, Texas
Overview
The Austin Technology Council (ATC) is the oldest technology industry organization in Central Texas. Since 1992, ATC has helped transform Austin from a small college town into one of the world’s most dynamic and recognized innovation hubs. Through programs in community-building, leadership development, advocacy, and education, ATC continues to be a trusted convener and catalyst in Austin’s tech scene.
Founding and Evolution
ATC began as the Austin Software Council, founded by visionary leader Dr. George Kozmetsky and the Austin Technology Incubator. It was a grassroots effort to bring together entrepreneurs, engineers, investors, and civic leaders to support software startups and grow the tech community.
As Austin’s economy diversified beyond software into semiconductors, life sciences, clean energy, and cloud technology, the organization became the Austin Technology Council. Since then, it has continued to support the growth of companies of all sizes across the broader innovation landscape.
In 2022, ATC returned to its grassroots mission: focusing on fostering human connection, elevating local voices, and helping business leaders find community and clarity in a rapidly changing world.
Mission and Vision
Mission: To connect, support, and promote the people and companies that power Austin’s technology sector.
Vision: A thriving, inclusive, and sustainable innovation economy built on shared leadership and community collaboration.
Programs and Events
- Executive Roundtables: Peer discussions for C-suite leaders on emerging tech trends and shared challenges.
- Gateway to SXSW Happy Hour: Local tech happy hour to celebrate the annual kick off of SXSW
- Public Policy Forums: Advocacy and insights into legislation affecting the tech industry.
- The C-Suite Summit and Industry Think Tank: Annual flagship half day meeting of local leaders.
- Forums with other local non-profits: Collaborative programs on AI, infrastructure, workforce, and more.
Austin Tech Hall of Fame
Established in 2024, the Austin Tech Hall of Fame honors those who laid the foundation for Austin’s rise as a world-class tech center. This program was created to celebrate the past, be present in the now, and to look to the future.
Each year, ATC inducts:
- Eight Foundational Members – early contributors to Austin’s tech growth
- One Current-Year Inductee – a present-day leader making a significant impact
- One First-Time Founder Awardee – an emerging innovator helping build Austin’s future
With a planned eight-year rollout, this initiative recognizes both well-known and unsung heroes across entrepreneurship, investment, education, service, and civic leadership.
Why Join ATC?
- Community Access: Connect with local tech companies and thousands of professionals.
- Collaborative Opportunities: Join curated programs, private events, and executive discussions.
- Thought Leadership: Get featured through podcasts, panels, and publications.
- Advocacy Support: Stay ahead of legislation and policy shifts with ATC’s guidance.
- Workforce & Talent: Help shape the future of tech through upskilling and hiring initiatives.
Visit ATC’s Membership Page to learn more.
Historical Timeline of the Austin Tech Ecosystem
- 1960s–1970s: IBM and Texas Instruments establish Austin operations. UT Austin strengthens STEM programs.
- 1983: MCC (Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation) forms in Austin.
- 1984: Michael Dell launches Dell Technologies from a UT dorm.
- 1988: Sematech launches in Austin, advancing semiconductor R&D.
- 1992: Austin Software Council (now ATC) is founded.
- 1999: Austin Chamber partners with tech leaders to drive industry growth.
- 2003: Opportunity Austin launches to spur job creation in innovation sectors.
- 2009: Capital Factory opens, catalyzing the startup and venture community downtown.
- 2010s: Apple, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and Tesla expand significantly in Austin.
- 2022: ATC recommits to community-first engagement and grassroots leadership.
- 2024: ATC launches the Austin Tech Hall of Fame.
Austin’s innovation economy today is the result of decades of collaboration between grassroots organizations like ATC, the Chamber, Opportunity Austin, Capital Factory, UT, and thousands of visionary contributors.
Legacy and Future
As Austin continues its rise as a global tech city, the Austin Technology Council remains grounded in its founding belief; that real opportunity is built through relationships, shared purpose, and courageous leadership. From startups to Fortune 500s, ATC is here to help the people of Central Texas tech rise together.