When we think of multi-billion-dollar organizations, our minds often drift toward skepticism, sometimes even doubt. Detroit, however, finds itself with an ally willing to go beyond the usual corporate handout. The Gilbert Family Foundation, a powerhouse organization, is reshaping what large-scale philanthropy can look like for the city’s Black community, particularly in the realm of technology and entrepreneurship. Detroit holds the largest Black population in the nation, and that presence deserves visibility, support, and investment—something the foundation understands.
A key example of this commitment is a $1.25 million grant awarded to Black Tech Saturdays (BTS), a grassroots initiative led by Johnnie and Alexa Turnage. Launched in March 2023, BTS has quickly become a sanctuary for Detroit’s Black tech founders, entrepreneurs, and those curious about the tech industry. More than just an event, Black Tech Saturdays represents a powerful collective space where community, empowerment, and innovation meet. This grant from the Gilbert Family Foundation marks a pivotal step in BTS’s journey, enabling it to sustain and expand its offerings over the next two years.
Johnnie Turnage describes this grant as “a powerful milestone.” He emphasizes that this moment is about more than financial support. “This grant goes beyond financial support; it’s a recognition of our mission and a reinforcement of our commitment to create a thriving, inclusive tech ecosystem in Detroit. For us, this funding means that BTS can continue its work, not only for today but to create a pathway for those who will come after us.” His vision reflects an understanding of the obstacles faced by Detroit’s Black community in tech. This is a chance to create an enduring platform, a safe space where dreams are nurtured and ambitions are celebrated.
Held twice a month at Newlab at Michigan Central in Detroit, Black Tech Saturdays has quickly made its mark. BTS hosts panel discussions, small group classes, and pitch competitions designed to inform and connect Black founders, budding entrepreneurs, and tech-minded individuals. Since its inception, more than 15,000 people have walked through its doors, leading to an estimated $30 million in economic impact. This growth came entirely from community word-of-mouth and social media, showcasing the authentic and genuine need for spaces like BTS in Detroit.
Linda Nosegbe, the director of economic mobility at the Gilbert Family Foundation, sees BTS as a transformative force in Detroit’s tech landscape. “BTS has significantly impacted Detroit by fostering a robust community of Black tech entrepreneurs,” she said. “This growth has enhanced networking opportunities and garnered national attention, drawing talent, businesses, and investors to the city.” With this investment, the Gilbert Family Foundation demonstrates its commitment to supporting the community through actionable and meaningful investment, aimed directly at addressing the systemic barriers Black Detroiters face in technology.
For BTS, this funding is a turning point. The Turnages plan to add six new team members to strengthen their capacity and expand their programming. They will also enhance mentorship, offering over 300 sessions to support career and business development. “This journey, which has often faced uncharted challenges, can ease the road for the next generation of Black entrepreneurs and founders,” Johnnie says, envisioning a Detroit where Black founders and tech talent feel at home and empowered to lead.
A significant portion of the grant will support pitch competitions, a vital element in helping entrepreneurs bring their ideas to market. On December 14, BTS will host its first pitch competition since the grant announcement, awarding $30,000 to the winning business. Additional funds will support regular competitions, making it possible for even more Black-owned tech startups to gain exposure and financial backing. This is not simply about the funds; it is a testament to the Foundation’s belief in BTS’s mission to uplift Detroit’s Black entrepreneurs and foster a tech ecosystem that includes everyone.
Part of BTS’s expansion will focus on creating digital resources. These resources aim to help entrepreneurs steer clear of common pitfalls, preparing them to pivot and adapt along the way. “One of our top priorities is creating a robust digital library that addresses the most frequent hurdles and pitfalls tech entrepreneurs face,” Johnnie explains. By addressing the specific needs of Black entrepreneurs, BTS is establishing a sustainable support system. The goal is to nurture resilient businesses ready to thrive in a competitive industry.
In addition to mentorship and digital resources, BTS is also expanding access to high-quality upskilling and job-seeker training. By increasing access to these programs, the organization aims to empower individuals from marginalized communities to transition into stable, well-paying tech careers. Johnnie emphasizes the importance of these initiatives: “We’re committed to offering upskilling programs and job-seeker training that shorten the time it takes individuals from underestimated communities to secure roles in tech.”
BTS is creating pathways that were once seen as out of reach. They are working to close the gap in access to capital and social infrastructure, bridging the divides that so often keep Black entrepreneurs and talent from succeeding. “Too often, underestimated communities lack the generational relationships that open doors and provide essential validation. With this investment, we’re working to close that gap,” Johnnie said.
This journey, however, has not come without challenges. Johnnie reflects on the road to securing this grant, describing the vulnerability involved in pitching their dreams. “Our path to this moment wasn’t smooth. Part of that journey is being bold enough to dream out loud. As a new, Black-led organization, we have to overcome the stigma and fear of being vulnerable, of laying our dreams on the table and risking that ‘no.’” He recalls the questions of doubt that arise, wondering, “What if they don’t like it? What if we never get another chance?” But in the end, he dared to say it anyway: “We’re dreaming of changing the world, of creating a future where Black and Brown tech founders and talent can see Detroit as a home—a safe space where they can make their wildest dreams a reality.”
This partnership with GFF signals a new era for Detroit’s tech ecosystem, especially for Black Detroiters who have often been left out of these spaces. Community networks are an essential part of entrepreneurial success, and Detroit’s Black entrepreneurs know this truth firsthand. With the support of the Gilbert Family Foundation, BTS can continue to build and support a strong, interconnected community. Studies show that around 80% of entrepreneurs rely on community networks for initial traction and resources, a statistic that underlines the importance of what BTS has built.
Laura Grannemann, executive director of the Gilbert Family Foundation, speaks to the significance of this collaboration. “All Detroiters deserve the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the city’s growing tech sector. Johnnie and Alexa Turnage have built an incredible community through Black Tech Saturdays, and we are proud to work with them to dismantle the systemic barriers that have historically limited opportunity for Black residents.”
Beyond Detroit, BTS has plans to bring its message to a national stage, beginning with AfroTech in Houston this month. Supported by the Michigan Growth Office, BTS will represent Detroit’s tech community at this national event, showing that Detroit has a seat at the table when it comes to Black tech innovation.
For Johnnie and Alexa, this journey is about much more than a series of events. They were named Michigan Chronicle’s 40 Under 40 honorees for a reason. This work represents the core of Detroit’s evolution. It’s about creating a legacy that allows Detroit’s Black community to thrive in spaces where they have often been excluded. “We hope that the work we do today will create a ripple, inspiring others to rise and build their futures with resilience, courage, and a community that stands with them every step of the way,” Johnnie said.
As BTS grows, so does the dream for Detroit. The Gilbert Family Foundation’s support is part of a larger $500 million, 10-year commitment shared with the Rocket Community Fund. This partnership is about planting seeds that will bloom into greater access to capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities for Black Detroiters. Detroit’s tech landscape is shifting, with BTS leading the way.
Johnnie and Alexa Turnage are proving that Detroit isn’t just witnessing the rise of Black tech; it is actively shaping the future of Black entrepreneurship in technology. This moment isn’t just about grants and investments—it’s about ensuring that Detroit’s Black community can look to the tech industry and see a future that includes them, supports them, and thrives alongside them. This is the vision they dared to dream, and with a community that stands with them, they’re making it a reality.
This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship Lab. The
Lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.
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