Dave Payne (Switchyards)
Overview
Dave Payne is a prominent figure in the startup ecosystem known for co-founding Switchyards Downtown Club, a network of neighborhood work clubs, and for his role as Managing Director of the Techstars Atlanta Accelerator. Payne's career began in the tech industry, and he later transitioned into entrepreneurship with notable ventures like Scoutmob. He has played a significant role in cultivating startup communities in Atlanta, Georgia, with a focus on B2C startups.
Recent Developments
- 2024: Dave Payne and his team announced plans to expand Switchyards by opening 200 new clubs nationwide over the next five years, supported by a $5 million funding round to fuel the vision of spreading neighborhood work clubs across the country.
- 2023: Payne continued his mentorship role with Techstars, actively engaging with startups across the Southeast US, offering guidance and support through various programs.
- 2022: He was named Managing Director of Techstars Atlanta, succeeding Michael Cohn. Under his leadership, the program attracted startups worldwide, boosting Atlanta’s reputation as a tech hub.
- Recent Initiatives: Payne co-founded Loop, a new venture aimed at furthering innovation within the tech industry, showing his continuous engagement with entrepreneurship and startup development.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Payne |
| Born | June 15, 1970, in Birmingham, AL |
| Nationality | United States |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur, Investor, Mentor |
| Known For | Co-founding Switchyards, Techstars |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Education | B.S. from Carnegie Mellon University |
Early Life and Education
Dave Payne was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He attended the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Tepper School of Business in 1994. His education laid a strong foundation for his pursuit in business and technology sectors. Payne's early exposure to tech and business dynamics significantly influenced his career trajectory towards technology entrepreneurship.
Career and Notable Achievements
- Earthlink (2002): Served as the Director of Wi-Fi Strategy and Director of Corporate Development, setting the stage for his expertise in tech strategy.
- Scoutmob (2007-2014): Co-founded Scoutmob, a pioneering app in the digital retail space, which achieved significant growth with $9 million in funding and three million users.
- Switchyards Downtown Club (2014-present): Co-founded Switchyards, the first neighborhood work club in the U.S., fostering a community-centric workspace model.
- Techstars (2016-present): Served in various capacities including Mentor and Managing Director at Techstars Atlanta, strengthening startup ecosystems in the Southeast.
- Recognized for mentoring numerous startups and influencing the entrepreneurial landscape.
Current Work and Impact
Dave Payne currently leads Switchyards in its expansive growth plans to open more locations across the United States. His initiatives focus on fostering cohesive communities around workspaces, which cater not only to startups but also to freelancers and remote workers. Through his role at Techstars Atlanta, Payne continues to influence the startup scene by nurturing emerging companies and providing strategic mentorship. His ongoing work at Loop and Neighborhood Studios reflects his dedication to advancing innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the tech industry.
Related Topics
Conclusion
Dave Payne remains a key figure in the entrepreneurial landscape, particularly within the Atlanta area. Through his efforts with Switchyards and Techstars, he has significantly contributed to the local and regional startup scenes, supporting both nascent and mature businesses in achieving sustainable growth. His forward-thinking approach continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who benefit from his mentorship, resources, and community-building initiatives. Payne's legacy is marked by his commitment to creating spaces and opportunities that enable innovation and collaboration, ensuring a lasting impact on the community and the broader startup ecosystem.