Our Work

Building a Movement Rooted in Black Joy

At BTF Research Institute, we are building a movement rooted in Black joy and driven by the dream of a more just and freedom-centered tech future. Across the United States, we strengthen Black Tech Ecosystems by empowering communities, supporting institutions, and shaping policies that open doors to innovation. Our Black Tech Ecosystem Index helps us measure and improve the health of these ecosystems. At the same time, initiatives like Black Tech Policy Week, The Black Joy AI Summit, and Black Public Interest Technology training programs inspire action and transformation.

Globally, we are uniting historically disadvantaged institutions and communities through the Global Responsible Computing Network. Spanning seven countries—The US, Pakistan, South Africa, Colombia, Rwanda, the US Virgin Islands, and Kenya—we are setting global standards for responsible computing and fostering inclusive AI opportunities led by communities who are not often at the table for these discussions.

Together, we’re not just imagining a brighter future; we’re creating it—one rooted in possibility, purpose, and joy for Black communities and other historically marginalized groups worldwide.

Join us in this movement.