Intro: Goodie Nation’s TAP Forward Demo Night redefines the startup pitch by spotlighting proven, diverse agency founders and signaling a move toward inclusive, results-driven creative leadership.

Three-month accelerator impact: The Fall 2025 cohort received tailored industry coaching, strategic mentorship, and direct access to global brand decision-makers, strengthening operations, boosting agency valuations, and driving long-term brand partnerships.

Atlanta as a blueprint: Atlanta’s rich cultural and tech ecosystem serves as the model for inclusive innovation, with TAP Forward planning expansion to Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.

Strategic positioning: The program centers on AI, data-driven insights, and operational efficiency to boost competitiveness for growing agencies pursuing enterprise collaborations.

Problem addressed: TAP Forward targets the relationship gap—limited access to networks, mentors, and partners for diverse founders—enabling scale-ready agencies to reach decision-makers.

Call to action: Readers can find more information at goodienation.org/tapforward.

Cultural significance: Atlanta is framed as the culture capital driving a real-time shift in the creator economy through inclusive leadership, with 14 established agencies leading the change.

Founders featured: Diverse profiles in marketing strategy, experiential/event marketing, and advertising/creative design, including Tenisha Griggs, Alyssa Evans, LaShanda Spears Jackson, Kimberly Jolasun, Sumayya Holmes, Amber Owens, Mezu Ofoegbu, Hannah Sterling, Yasmeen Telsem, Noelle Lucas, Francis Rutledge III, Marcus Hollinger, Jarrett Coger, and AC Hampton.

Future outlook: TAP Forward aims to scale nationally, expanding to additional cities while continuing to prioritize accessible networks and partnerships for sustainable growth.

Event scope: Demo Night showcased 14 diverse agency founders from five experiential/event marketing firms, four marketing strategy firms, and four advertising/creative design shops, all with proven results and direct connections to brand leaders.