Norfolk Southern extends partnership with Georgia Tech’s ATDC

Norfolk Southern has extended its partnership with Georgia Tech’s Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), committing $250,000 per year over the next two years to continue powering ATDC’s Sustainability Tech vertical. The renewed investment builds on a successful multi-year collaboration that has positioned ATDC as one of Georgia’s leading platforms for founders developing solutions that address climate, energy, and environmental challenges.

Launched in 2023 with initial support from Norfolk Southern, the ATDC Sustainability Tech vertical has become one of the fastest growing and largest verticals at ATDC. Over the past three years, the program has supported more than 35 sustainability focused portfolio companies and engaged additional startups across ATDC’s broader portfolio. Today, the vertical comprises 29 active companies spanning industries such as renewable energy, circular economy technologies, energy efficiency, water tech, ag tech, and climate data solutions.

“ATDC remains at the forefront of cleantech innovation in Georgia,” said Josh Raglin, Norfolk Southern Chief Sustainability Officer. “Norfolk Southern and ATDC share a clear vision for developing and deploying technology to help businesses meet their sustainability goals, which is why extending this partnership is so meaningful.”

The partnership:

• Supports one-on-one startup coaching, sustainability focused programming, and specialized resources designed to guide founders from ideation through commercialization.

• Builds a pipeline of innovators across Georgia.

• Enhances the state’s economy.

In 2024 alone, sustainability portfolio companies generated more than $15 million in revenue and created or saved 114 jobs. The program has also produced two acquisitions, including ClimeCo’s 2023 acquisition of Ampliphi, which enables companies to combat plastic pollution, and Quest Renewables, a solar canopy solution provider which was acquired by Bravo in 2023.

“We are so pleased to continue our partnership with Norfolk Southern for another two years to support our sustainability technology vertical which spans critical sectors that work to improve climate sustainability, energy resiliency, and other research areas that have a tangible impact on human wellbeing,” said John Avery, director of ATDC. “With their support and partnership, we plan to build an even bigger pipeline of founders who are laser focused on creating meaningful business that address today’s challenges.”

The longstanding partnership aligns with Norfolk Southern’s continued investment in growing its Atlanta-based tech capabilities, further reinforcing the company’s presence in Georgia’s innovation ecosystem.