Black Tech Saturdays (BTS) has embarked on an exciting new journey through a dynamic partnership with the Rocket Community Fund, securing a $320,000 grant to inject the vibrant energy of technology and innovation into Detroit’s neighborhoods. This collaboration is set to make waves, driving BTS’s mission to close the racial wealth gap and bridge the digital divide.
In an exclusive interview with the Michigan Chronicle, BTS co-founders Johnnie and Alexa Turnage shared their vision and strategic plans for leveraging the grant to make a tangible difference. Their passion for empowering Detroit’s Black community through technological advancement and innovative solutions shines brightly.
A recent report from the McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility underscores a pressing concern: generative AI could widen the racial wealth gap between Black and white Americans by a staggering $43 billion annually over the next 20 years. This alarming projection underscores the urgency of BTS’s mission.
Entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in this vision. By fostering a culture of innovation and business creation, BTS aims to ensure the Black community not only participates in but leads the way in shaping Detroit’s future. The partnership with the Rocket Community Fund is more than just financial support; it’s a strategic alliance to cultivate entrepreneurial talent and digital literacy. This initiative will provide residents with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in a tech-driven economy.
Through workshops, training programs, and community outreach, BTS is dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable future. This grant will enable BTS to expand its reach and enhance its programs, ensuring that Detroit’s neighborhoods are not only participants but leaders in the city’s technological renaissance.
This partnership promises to transform Detroit’s tech landscape and empower its residents. As BTS continues to drive forward its mission, the impact of this collaboration will be felt across the city, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship lab. The lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.