Breakout Builders: Future of Cities

120 National & Local Catalysts.

Building the future of cities, together.

November 11 - 13, 2026

Breakout Builders: Future of Cities is a multi-day experience for community innovators focused on the economic and real estate development ecosystem.

We are bringing together developers, investors & philanthropic funders, entrepreneurs, cultural workers, community builders, and innovation leaders working to build thriving communities.

Through city-wide site visits, hands-on working sessions, and intimate dinners, attendees get access to Atlanta’s most innovative spaces and people.

Why Atlanta?

Atlanta is undergoing one of the most ambitious waves of infrastructure and mixed-use development in the country. Capital, policy, technology, and community converge in this city that is changing right before our eyes.

Atlanta creates culture. From civil rights to hip-hop to entrepreneurship, this city has always exported the ideas, movements, and models the rest of the world adopts. That same energy drives how Atlanta builds.

In Atlanta, legacy industry, cutting-edge research, and local innovation come together to test new models that other cities can learn from.

OUR PARTNERS

FOCUS AREAS

01
Innovation in capital deployment

02
Transit-oriented and affordable housing development

03
Investment in arts, culture, and placemaking

04
AI/ Technology solutions for communities

Apply Today

What to Expect

❋ Curated & Mission-driven

Breakout Builders: Future of Cities is a multi-day, cross-sector experience that explores the intersection of community, development, and innovation for the public good. By bringing the full economic development ecosystem together in shared space and amplifying emerging voices shaping our cities, we can break down the walls that keep industries apart.

❋ Immersive & Action-oriented

We blend ideation sessions, city-based exploration, storytelling, and skills-based workshops, accelerating real projects and fostering lasting connections with other builders.

❋ Expert Facilitation

Led by industry experts, community leaders, and experienced guides who know how to hold space, encourage participation, and keep things moving with purpose.

❋ Open & Intersdisciplinary

Breakout is a platform for collaboration across organizations, sectors, and communities. We surface and support projects that can grow, connecting grassroots builders with national funders, and local leaders with new partners.

What a Day Could Feel Like

Sample Agenda

Pullman Yards welcome in a former railroad repair facility turned cultural venue along the BeltLine.

Kickoff

Behind-the-scenes access to the development of South Downtown / “Startup City” across over 50 buildings and 10 blocks.

Group Activity

Working session focused on the Old Fourth Ward parcel alongside Historic Fourth Ward Park Conservancy and neighborhood leaders.

Creative Workshop

Half-day immersion at…

Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, and its example for Black wealth-building and business creation tied to the city’s economic future.
Westside Atlanta & Castleberry Hill to explore strategic investments made into affordable housing, workforce training, and guaranteed income programs.