Boston New Technology’s October Town Hall: Celebrating Growth, Innovation, and New Horizons

Prepared By Steve Vilkas, Co-Director Boston New Technology

Our October Town Hall was a powerful gathering, as we took a moment to reflect on the remarkable strides we’ve made in 2024. It was a time to celebrate the milestones that showcase our collective dedication and vision.

From the flourishing memberships, vibrant groups and events like the Boston Regional Final of the Startup World Cup and our second Startup Weekend -- not to mention our work with Rezoomex , the Town Hall underscored Boston New Technology’s mission to elevate the city’s tech ecosystem. These accomplishments are built on the energy, commitment, and innovative spirit of everyone involved.

Yet everything has a beginning, and in my recent chat with Chris Requena I shared a side-by-side set of videos explaining without words why I'm doing what I'm doing for BNT:

I wanted to take a moment to express just how much Boston New Technology (BNT) has come to mean to me—not just as someone who loved the organization from the beginning and proudly stood among its members, but now as one of its leaders.

I am now in a position where I can do for others what you did for me all those years ago when I was working on my dad’s startup, and after when I was on my own: I pride myself on being that person who takes others under his wing, making sure BNT is the most inclusive, inspirational, educational and empowering organization there is. You never made me feel small – to the contrary, you helped me grow into the professional I am today. Making sure BNT was ok and now making sure she continues to thrive – it’s kept me up at night and kept me going full speed ahead.

This voyage has been incredibly special to me. BNT has grown beyond a community or an initiative. It’s become part of my life’s work, something I am deeply committed to building not just for the present, but for the future as well.

The proof of that:

Embracing Strategic Growth with November’s Drydock Phase

As we look toward 2025, BNT will enter a strategic “drydock” phase this November—a time to recalibrate, refine, and fortify our plans for the upcoming year. Central to this is the rollout of a streamlined media strategy that will keep our community engaged and informed. Starting in November, our weekly newsletter will resume, bringing fresh updates directly to our members’ inboxes, while the BNT Byte and BNT Events Round-up will shift to a monthly release on LinkedIn at the beginning of each month. For those looking forward to our Fireside Chats, rest assured they will return in early 2025 with new perspectives and insights to inspire.

Opening Doors for 2025 Volunteer Engagement

We are excited to announce new volunteer opportunities for those who wish to support our journey in 2025. Beginning January 14th, we will open volunteer roles for the year’s events, as well as expanded project-based positions that provide hands-on experience in various BNT initiatives. Additionally, a special volunteer call will go out for Startup Weekend around the same time, offering a unique chance for our community to engage directly with Boston’s startup ecosystem. These roles are a great opportunity to contribute to BNT’s mission and be part of the thriving innovation landscape in Boston.

Spotlight on The Abundance Summit – November 13th

One of the year’s most anticipated events, The Abundance Summit, is just around the corner on November 13th. In collaboration with Arielle For Africa, this summit embodies BNT’s commitment to cross-border innovation and connection. More than an event, The Abundance Summit is a movement, creating a bridge for ideas, resources, and opportunities to flow between continents. We’re honored to work with Edith and her team on this endeavor and thrilled to welcome global thought leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs into our growing ecosystem. Together, we’re making Boston a global hub for shared learning and collaboration.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To everyone in the BNT community, I extend my sincere thanks for your ongoing support, energy, and vision. I am particularly grateful for my Co-Directors, Jason and Shweta, whose dedication and insight have been instrumental to BNT’s achievements this year. It is a privilege to work alongside each of you as we continue to shape Boston’s innovation landscape. Here’s to an inspiring end to the year and a 2025 filled with even greater opportunities to connect, create, and inspire together.