A network for tech pros in the Mid-Atlantic region is expanding to DC

Thraxos, an invite-only professional networking organization for tech CEOs and founders in the Mid-Atlantic, officially launched in D.C. on Sept. 16.

The inaugural cohort will include tech professionals from companies in the artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data analytics sectors. These pros will gather at four dinner events spanning 10 months to connect with one another and other subject matter experts and business leaders. The program focuses on attracting high-growth companies, so executives can learn how to navigate growth challenges.

“Thraxos brings together bold and innovative technology leaders who have survived the startup phase and are now making a name for themselves as they enjoy rapid growth. Of course, with rapid growth comes a whole new set of business challenges,”  Thraxos founder Melissa Goldate said in a press release. “Thraxos’s mission is to provide strategic guidance to leaders whose companies are experiencing the at-times awkward adolescence phase, strengthen their support system of mentors and peers and, quite frankly, to have a good time.”

Goldate’s background is in cyber risk management. The legal professional founded Thraxos because she saw a need for a customized forum specifically for growth-stage tech companies, according to the press release. Along with Goldate, the founding board of advisors includes:

• Tony Cole, CTO at Attivo Networks
• Bill Crowell, partner at Alsop Louie Partners
• Scott Gerber, founder and partner at Vrge
• Rick Howard, chief security officer at Palo Alto Networks
• Jim Hunt, managing partner at Lavrock Ventures
• Ben Rodgers, senior director at BNY Mellon
• Urvashi Sen, global head of regulatory risk at HCL Technologies
• Bill Weber, former president and CEO at KeyW

Thraxos plans to welcome a new cohort of tech professionals each year, and its first cohort will include up to 13 CEOs and founders. The organization is accepting applications through Dec. 20, with the first program beginning in early 2020.