Launchpad2X's tagline is "rocket fuel for women entrepreneurs" and the organization's recent partnership with Atlanta Tech Village, and the inevitable opportunities for high-potential female startup founders in Atlanta, is sure to blast off. Though the gender divide in technology is quite real, these two groups are working hard to close that gap and equalize the playing field.
Launchpad2X (the "2X" denotes the two X chromosomes carried by females) is an Atlanta entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports women who are founders, leaders and/or majority owners of their startup and emerging businesses. This innovative business bootcamp for women leaders provides members with mentorship, ongoing education and a supportive network that builds the confidence and skills needed to grow their companies.
The partnership with ATV, the fourth largest technology hub in the country, will build a deeper awareness for women entrepreneurs, including making their presence known at ATV and within the surrounding community with a series of programs, workshops, showcases and co-hosted events, like networking receptions.
Bernie Dixon, who founded the non-profit organization in 2012, has a passion for increasing investment capital for women-managed businesses and providing the necessary tools and connections to develop successful women CEOs and business leaders.
"As women find their voice against institutional prejudices, they are more willing to take risks, which is what entrepreneurship is about," Dixon said. "Women tend to be more risk averse; having a supportive environment that puts a spotlight on the amazing companies being built by women and nurtures women-led companies to reach their top potential is a game changer."
The results-driven impact is impressive when it comes to Launchpad2X. To date, the organization has graduated 121 CEOs, seen six exits and celebrated having 94 percent of their companies still in business (compared to a national average of 20 percent). Membership, paid at a monthly or annual rate, includes access to monthly workshops, LP2X open office hours and advisory board network, exclusive curriculum, members-only forums and job boards, mentorship and other services.
“Technology is changing the world at an incredibly rapid pace, and we need more women in this race. Yet only 17 percent of startups had female founders last year; and in technology, women’s quit rate is at 45 percent, which is more than twice that of men,” Atlanta Tech Village Vice President Karen Houghton said. “Partnering with Launchpad2X and founder Bernie Dixon is a tangible and intentional way for us to further support and empower incredible entrepreneurs. We are proud of the work they are doing and look forward to offering more opportunities together.”
Previous LP2X graduates include brrr° (smart fabric startup), BOOP (Built Out Of Paper---innovative, ecofriendly, disposable furniture), Blamtastic (body care products), ARPR (award-winning PR and marketing agency), Tulle La La (box subscriptions for brides) and many more. Members receive training via the intensive core program and master classes, sponsored by major companies like Wells Fargo, Delta, Morris Manning, Trusted Counsel, Insperity, Frazier Deeter and Georgia Centers for Innovation.
Dixon sees the need and importance for LP2X because "women receive less than 2 percent of overall capital available for early-stage companies in the United States---coupled with the fact that women usually don't spend money on their own development; they typically put employees, families and community first. This program and support system provides opportunity to focus sharply on themselves and their own development as leaders of their companies."
"The economy needs the brain power and business acumen of women to create jobs," Dixon said. "Women also expand the point of view to accommodate half the population when they have a seat at the table. Women entrepreneurs deserve more support, more investment, more focus. The partnership between ATV and Launchpad2X creates a powerful destination for women to launch their new businesses."
