Georgia Tech will host Avant South at Tech Square in Atlanta on October 12 and 13, with this year's program built around the theme AI in Action. Metro Atlanta CEO reported the details on October 1, 2026.
The two-day event gathers founders, executives, policymakers, investors, researchers, creators, and students to discuss technology, culture, and innovation. The organizers describe the theme as a shift from predictions about what artificial intelligence might do someday toward how organizations are putting it to work now. Faculty and researchers are scheduled to hear from industry leaders about the problems companies are trying to solve with AI and where new research and partnerships are needed.
The agenda includes panel discussions, keynotes, and fireside chats. Attendees can try emerging technologies through AI activations and simulations, and a student founder pitch competition will let entrepreneurs compete in front of the audience. Sessions also connect participants with leaders from across Atlanta's technology and innovation ecosystem.
Georgia Tech president Ángel Cabrera said the program is meant to link what happens in classrooms, research labs, and startups on campus with the communities and industries that AI is changing. He added that the direction of the technology depends on what people do to advance it and use it.
The event is organized for several audiences. Students can learn how AI is changing the careers they are preparing for and meet employers and founders. Staff and professionals from across campus can look at how the technology affects their own fields. Members of the Georgia Tech community can buy tickets at a discounted price of $10 using a campus code at checkout.
Avant South returns to Tech Square in Fulton County, the district that anchors much of Georgia Tech's entrepreneurship and industry partnership activity.
Source: Metro Atlanta CEO - https://metroatlantaceo.com/features/2026/10/georgia-techs-avant-south-brings-ai-action-atlanta/