Events

The #BlackTechFutures Research Institute (BTF) proudly presents the inaugural 2025 Digital Open House Series, a three-day virtual convening designed to showcase our movement-building work at the intersections of digital equity, Black innovation, and Public Interest Technology. From October 14-16, we invite faith leaders, philanthropic partners, and the public to join our digital ecosystem and co-create an equitable tech future rooted in Black Joy.

Digital Open House Series

  • Faith Leaders

    October 14, 2025 | 1:00 PM EST

    Building Bridges Between Technology and Community
    A powerful interfaith dialogue highlighting the transformative role of Black churches and faith institutions in digital justice. Attendees will explore how faith-rooted leadership is advancing multi-faith digital equity curriculum, building ethical AI frameworks, and shaping local tech ecosystems.

    Featured guests: Rev. Dr. Erika Gault, Rev. Dr. Renita Weems, Bishop Charles Ellis, Dr. Itari Toure, and Rev. Traci Blackmon.

    RSVP

  • Funders & Partnerships

    October 15, 2025 | 10:30 AM EST

    Driving Resources Toward Equitable Tech Futures
    This session brings together philanthropic visionaries and global partners to explore investment pathways that support multi-country public interest technology initiatives. Highlights include insights from our African Diaspora partners (South Africa, Kenya, and the Black South) and a strategic conversation.

    Featured guests: John Irons (Siegel Family Endowment) with leaders from Mozilla, Omidyar Network, and Partnership AI.

    invitation only

  • Public

    October 16, 2025 |  6:00 PM EST

    Your Voice in Shaping Tomorrow’s Tech
    This event is open to all and warmly invites the entire community to engage with leaders in inclusive innovation. Panelists from academia, community tech organizations, and global consultancies will share actionable strategies to co-create an ethical, community-centered digital future. Open to the public.

    Featured guests: Zaki Barzinji (Aspen Digital), Meka Egwuekwe (CodeCrew), and Saidah Nash Carter (Big Insights Global).

    RSVP

Rooted in data, driven by equity, and powered by joy, our Digital Open House amplifies the work of the BTF Research Institute––building Black DREAMS, championing Black Futures, and celebrating Black JOY. Together, we are shaping a future where Black communities lead as architects of a just and thriving digital society.