SpecialityCo-Founder and CEO, The Gathering Spot

Ryan Wilson is a visionary entrepreneur and renowned thought leader whose transformative work has redefined the art of networking. As the Co-Founder and CEO of The Gathering Spot (TGS), Ryan has cultivated a vibrant hub for collaboration, connections, and culturally significant experiences. His commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity has solidified his position as a distinguished figure in business and community engagement. At just 24 years old, Ryan and his business partner successfully raised capital to launch TGS in Atlanta. Under his leadership, TGS quickly became a dynamic home for creatives, business professionals, and entrepreneurs. More than a club, TGS evolved into a movement, hosting groundbreaking events and fostering impactful connections. Ryan's strategic vision spurred the physical expansion of TGS to Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, with additional membership communities established in New York City, Detroit, Charlotte, Houston, and Chicago. In 2022, the acquisition of TGS by a fintech company was recognized by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as one of the year's most influential deals, delivering meaningful returns to investors. Demonstrating his unwavering belief in TGS's mission, Ryan and his co-founder reacquired the company in 2023, cementing their commitment to its legacy. Accolades and Recognitions Ryan's contributions have been widely celebrated: Atlanta Business Chronicle Small Business Person of the Year 40 Under Forty Honoree Recognized as one of Georgia’s 500 Most Powerful Leaders (Georgia Trend) Phoenix Award recipient, Atlanta's highest honor Philanthropic Leader of Tomorrow (2023, Association for Fundraising Professionals) Named among The Root 100 and the Ebony Power 100 as one of the most influential African-Americans Recognized as one of Goldman Sachs’ Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs Media Features and Speaking Engagements Ryan has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Forbes, Inc., The New York Times, Bloomberg Businessweek, Black Enterprise, and more. His sought-after expertise has led to keynote presentations for major organizations like Goldman Sachs, Google, Meta, Delta, and Nike, as well as at prestigious universities including Georgetown University Law Center, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management, and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Civic and Community Involvement As an Atlanta native, Ryan is deeply involved in the city's civic and community organizations. He serves on the boards of: The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta Usher’s New Look The Woodruff Arts Center The Atlanta Business League The Atlanta Metro Chamber of Commerce Invest Atlanta Foundation Goodwill of North Georgia The Carter Center’s Board of Councilors He is also a member of the 100 Black Men Atlanta Chapter and the Atlanta Rotary Club, and he has previously served on the boards of Hands on Atlanta and Peace Preparatory Academy. Personal Life and Education A proud graduate of Georgetown University and Georgetown University Law Center, Ryan serves on the university’s Board of Regents. He resides in Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife and two children.