There’s More Happening in Massachusetts Tech Than You Might Think

Maybe I’m biased. I grew up here, went to college and grad school here, co-oped for a Massachusetts Congressperson, worked at the State House, and have spent most of my career working with not one, but three different Massachusetts-based trade associations. So yes, I’m definitely biased.

But my perspective isn’t limited to Massachusetts. I have friends and colleagues across the country and around the world, and I sit on the board of an international tech association. I pay close attention to what’s happening in other regions, and I’ve seen what a thriving ecosystem looks like in a lot of different places.

This is not a post about how Massachusetts is the best place to live, work, or start a company. We all know the macro challenges: housing, talent retention, cost of doing business. That conversation is important, but this post is about something else.

What I want to say, clearly and directly, is that a lack of tech community is not one of our challenges.

Last week, MTLC hosted our annual Innovation Unconference. It was a full house, filled with founders, investors, and operators who came to roll up their sleeves and have real conversations. The feedback has been incredible. It’s a huge relief when something you’ve poured energy into not only works but works because of the people who show up for each other.

Still, one thing I heard more than once was: “I didn’t know this kind of event was happening.” Or “There aren’t many events like this anymore.”

So let me say this clearly. There are a lot of great events happening here.

To make that easier to see, I’m sharing a non-exhaustive list of people and organizations who are doing the work. Hosting conversations. Building community. This isn’t a ranking or a comprehensive directory. It’s just a sample of who’s out there.

If you’re part of this world, consider this a reminder of what’s available. And if you’re new or still finding your place, here’s a starting point. (And yes, of course I’ll start with ours…)

Mass Technology Leadership Council (MTLC) – Tech leadership and community programs

Venture and Startup Catalysts

MassChallenge – Accelerator and pitch events
Startup Boston – Year-round founder programming
Techstars Boston – Accelerators and weekends
TiE Boston – Entrepreneur and investor network
Underscore VC – Community-driven founder support
Venture Lane – Startup-focused coworking and events

Media

Boston Business Journal – Business coverage and events
MassLive – Innovation and entrepreneurship
MGMT Boston – Founder stories and gatherings
The Boston Globe – Regional forums and features
VentureFizz – Tech news and event listings
WBUR – Civic and innovation conversations

Meetups and Community Groups

Boston New Technology – Startup demos and networking
Tech in Motion Boston – Panels and socials
AI Blueprint for MA – AI learning sessions
Boston GenAI Meetup – GenAI-focused community

Want to Get Involved?

If you’re running events and don’t see your name here, let me know. I’ll keep adding. If you’re new to the ecosystem and not sure where to start, try one event, then try another.

The point is not to go to everything, it’s to find your people.

And if you were part of the Innovation Unconference, thank you for reminding us that this ecosystem is not just alive, it’s thriving. There is a lot happening in Massachusetts tech. Let’s stop acting surprised by it.