Tech New York Advocates launches to boost global collaboration

Global Tech Advocates has announced the formation of Tech New York Advocates, its 44th international group and the fifth group in the United States.

Tech New York Advocates (TNYA) is set to be led by Alejandro Martinez, a data and artificial intelligence industry leader and Chief Executive Officer of Propelling Tech. The launch event was held at CliftonLarsonAllen in New York, gathering founders, investors, policymakers, and technology professionals to discuss the future direction of New York's technology sector.

The gathering brought support from various partners, including Spencer West, Bloomberg, and hosts CLA, and offered attendees a range of activities such as keynote talks, networking sessions, and panel discussions. Representatives from companies including Astrato Analytics, AxonJay, Prophecy, Espresso AI, and Deal Flow Exchange participated in the proceedings, underscoring the breadth and diversity present in New York's technology scene.

Another highlight of the event was the unveiling of Next CoLab by Roy Vella, Group Lead for Tech Boston Advocates. Next CoLab is a new initiative that leverages artificial intelligence to transform meetings, aiming for improved clarity, insight, and enterprise value.

Martinez, who brings over 20 years of experience delivering business solutions across the United States and Europe and has been recognised among top global consultants in data, has a background as a speaker at the World Economic Forum and serves as US Editor for Nakedchief.com.

Harini Gopalakrishnan, a global innovation strategist with experience in life sciences, startups, and multilateral organisations, will support Martinez in his new role. James Klein, a Corporate Partner at Spencer West and a Global Tech Advocates Advisor, also joins the leadership team.

Tech New York Advocates aims to strengthen New York City's position as a major global technology centre by promoting inclusivity, supporting responsible innovation, and fostering collaborative connections among startups, investors, academic institutions, and government bodies.

New York City's technology sector includes over 25,000 firms, reflecting significant recent growth. The sector benefits from robust venture capital investment, internationally recognised academic institutions, and a diverse talent pool. Challenges remain in ensuring digital equity, supporting underrepresented founders, and sustaining responsible growth, which TNYA intends to address by supporting emerging technologies and championing technology for good.

TNYA will extend international collaboration by linking with established groups in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Americas through its connection to the wider Global Tech Advocates network. It becomes the fifth US-based group, joining Arizona, Boston, California, and Florida.

Russ Shaw CBE, Founder of Global Tech Advocates, stated, "Our third group launch of 2025 and it's a big one for our global expansion. New York, as a hub for tech innovation, plays a pivotal role in driving progress in the tech industry. Alejandro's leadership, combined with the dynamic energy of the NYC ecosystem, will be key in uniting local and international voices to drive innovation and address the challenges facing the tech landscape. Welcome to the community!"

Speaking on his new role, Alejandro Martinez, Group Lead, Tech New York Advocates, said: "Leading Tech New York Advocates is an incredible honor. New York's tech ecosystem is uniquely vibrant and diverse, and now is the perfect time to unite our community within Global Tech Advocates. Our mission is to connect local innovators with global networks, amplify often overlooked voices, and foster a collaborative, inclusive growth. I'm excited to be part of this journey and to drive innovation forward."

James Klein, Global Tech Advocates Advisor and Corporate Partner at Spencer West, commented, "It's encouraging to see the Global Tech Advocates network strengthening its presence in such a critical global market. At Spencer West, we are proud to support this launch and to play a part in helping early-stage and scaling businesses connect across borders. It is increasingly clear that the future of tech depends on cross-border collaboration, and New York's inclusion reflects the momentum and ambition of the GTA community as it enters its next chapter."