#BlackTechFutures
Research Institute
Growing a National Black Tech Ecosystem through research, #blacktechpolicy, and data-driven intervention
Our Purpose
Growing a Sustainable
National Black Tech Ecosystem
Sponsored by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation 2020 Open Knowledge Grant and housed at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Stillman College, #BlackTechFutures Research Institute builds a national network of city-based researchers and practitioners conducting research on sustainable local black tech ecosystems. The outcomes of this work are actionable policy recommendations and a national public data archive.
#BlackTechPolicy
We use research to inform liberating policy recommendations and advocacy at the municipal, state, and national level.
Community-Led Research
We increase the number of Black researchers focused on innovation, technology, and public policy by growing local talent in cities.
An Ecosystem Approach
We eradicate intersecting racial tech disparities within cities through alignment of community leaders and collective impact.
Our Long Term Goal
Lay the foundation for National Black Tech Ecosystem Association
Our Roadmap
Building A National Black Tech Ecosystem
November 2020
Pilot Launched
Officially launched the #BlackTechFutures Research Institute to build a thriving, sustainable technology ecosystem for Black people in the four cities.
December 2020
Announced Fellows
Welcomed #BlackTechFutures Research Institute inaugural fellows in four cities – Birmingham, AL; Nashville, TN; Houston, TX; and Memphis, TN.
December 2020
#BlackTechPolicy Week
Launched annual #BlackTechPolicy Week targeting Black STEM professionals, tech startups, and government officials.
January 2021
Lecture Series Kick-Off
Launched annual guest lecturers series supporting the development of a thriving Black tech ecosystem to champion community-centered research and address issues of racial tech disparity.
Our Impact
Data + Policy Development
We begin this work in four cities in the Southeastern region of the US working with black tech ecosystem builders, HBCU scholars, and community leaders. Our municipalities include Birmingham, AL; Nashville, TN; Houston, TX; and Memphis, TN.
Our Calendar
Upcoming Events
Make Your Voice Heard
Our events offer an unparalleled lineup of STEM professionals, tech startups, faith leaders, and government officials sharing actionable insights, data-driven knowledge, and innovative ideas to build a Black techecosystem. Join the conversation.
Online Views
Hours Watched
Audience Engagements
Meet Our Upcoming
Guest Lecturers
Dr. Charlton Mcllwain
Author of Black Software
Deshuna Moore Spencer
Founder of KweliTv
Dr. Timnit Gebru
Co-Founder of Black in Ai
Jamye Wooten
CLLTIVLY, Advisory Board Member
Dr. Menna Demessie
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
Dr. Nicol Turner Lee
Director, Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings Institute; Senior Fellow, Governance Studies
Andreen Soley
New America
Clinton Odom
The National Urban League
Michelle Ferguson
Tech Dream Corps