Austin Tech Hall of Fame
Honoring the Icons of Our Community
The Austin Technology Council is proud to continue what is now becoming a treasured tradition; the Austin Tech Hall of Fame and the First Time Founder Award.
In 2024, we relaunched this idea after discovering that ATC originally honored one inductee in 2013… But this time we decided to do it with an eight year launch so that we could include the people who created the foundation that has made Austin special.
Why This Matters
Austin’s tech community didn’t appear overnight. It was built over decades by risk-takers, builders, mentors, and innovators. The Austin Tech Hall of Fame exists to celebrate those individuals who laid the foundation and those who are shaping the next era of growth.
The Format
For the first eight years, we will induct:
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Eight Legacy Hall of Fame Honorees each year: those whose business and civic impact was clearly felt before 2020
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One Current Honoree: leader making a bold and visible impact today
Nominations are open to the public and will be selected by an independent committee.
The First Time Founder Award
This recognition is awarded annually to a local tech entrepreneur currently serving as CEO of their first startup that has received funding or grown to at least 10 employees. This award spotlights the new generation of leaders building the next great wave of Austin tech.
The Event
This year’s celebration will again take the form of a casual, meaningful gathering—not a black-tie gala, but a community-centered cocktail reception. We aim for authenticity over flash. If your company has a great event space and would like to host the 2026 celebration, please reach out.
Join Us
The Austin Tech Hall of Fame is more than just an event. It’s a recognition of the culture, energy, and legacy that makes our city’s tech ecosystem one of the most admired in the world.
Sponsors
We could not host this program if not for the “Austin Tech Community Champions” that make it possible. Thank you to KPMG, Egan Nelson LLP, Indeed, and Reddit.
Want to Get Involved?
To submit a nomination, inquire about sponsorship, or discuss community partnerships, please contact:
Thom Singer
CEO, Austin Technology Council
📧 Thom@AustinTechnologyCouncil.org
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