Tech Visionary Chris Klaus Powers Georgia Tech Grads to Launch Startups

In a bold move to ignite Atlanta's entrepreneurial spirit, renowned tech entrepreneur and Georgia Tech alumnus Christopher W. Klaus announced during his Georgia Tech Commencement address on Friday, May 2 that he will personally cover the incorporation costs for any graduating student aspiring to launch a startup.​ 

 

"This is about more than just covering fees — it’s about lighting a spark,” said Klaus. “Every founder needs someone to believe in them early. Through this gift, we’re offering that belief and giving graduates the chance to start building with purpose and confidence.” 

 

Klaus is a driving force in Atlanta’s tech and startup community. While still a student at Georgia Tech, he founded Internet Security Systems, which went public and was later acquired by IBM for nearly $2 billion. Today, he leads Fusen, a startup accelerator that connects students with founders, mentors, investors, and early-stage funding to launch new ventures. In 2000, Klaus donated $15 million to help create Georgia Tech’s Christopher W. Klaus Advanced Computing Building, an innovation hub at the Institute. He also co-founded CREATE-X, Tech’s flagship entrepreneurship program, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024 and has launched over 500 student startups. 

 

“We invited Chris Klaus to speak at Commencement because he embodies the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit that has defined Georgia Tech for 140 years,” said President Ángel Cabrera, who will also bestow an honorary Ph.D. on Klaus during the ceremony. “Through his groundbreaking work, his message, and now his generous gift to this semester’s graduates, Chris continues to inspire a new generation to lead with imagination and creativity.”  

 

Klaus' commitment complements Atlanta's broader efforts to foster a robust tech ecosystem and aligns with Mayor Andre Dickens' ambitious goal of positioning Atlanta as a top five U.S. tech hub. Achieving this status necessitates the creation of approximately 2,000 startups annually by 2027 to attract significant venture capital, generate employment, and solidify the city's standing as a premier innovation center.  

 

"Chris Klaus' generosity and vision will help further Atlanta's position as one of the country’s leading tech hubs," said Mayor Dickens. "His support for emerging entrepreneurs exemplifies our city’s group project and what is needed to equip the next generation of job creators for success."