When tens of thousands of Black professionals and innovators converge in one space, the word “minority” transforms into something much greater—a collective mantra: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. This epitomizes unity for a greater purpose, a tangible example of what happens when Black excellence builds together. More than that, it defines what the evolution of tech truly represents—the evolution of Black tech. At AfroTech 2024, Detroit stood boldly at the forefront of that evolution, not just participating but leading the charge.
Detroit made a definitive statement at AfroTech 2024 in Houston, asserting itself as a driving force in the nation’s tech landscape. AfroTech, now synonymous with celebrating Black excellence in technology, provided the platform for Detroit to demonstrate its ingenuity, resilience, and determination. This year, the city’s delegation didn’t just show up—they made it clear that Detroit is not only part of the tech conversation but integral to shaping its future.
The Michigan Roadshow, organized by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, brought more than 40 Detroit-based entrepreneurs, students, and creatives to Houston. Over 400 attendees connected with the Detroit delegation, many of whom shared resources and forged partnerships. Hilary Doe, Michigan’s Chief Growth Officer, spoke about the roadshow’s purpose. “This roadshow isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about creating meaningful connections that support Michigan founders and invite others to join in our innovation-driven growth.”
Detroit’s delegation included representatives from Venture 313, TechTown, and Invest Detroit Ventures. Caleb Conley, of Venture 313, highlighted the $10 million investment committed to Detroit’s innovation ecosystem. Already, $3 million has been deployed to support 80 companies. The goal is not just to build businesses but to create an infrastructure where Black and Brown entrepreneurs can thrive.
AfroTech is rooted in a history of creating space for Black talent in an industry that continues to exclude many. The conference began in 2016 and has since grown to attract nearly 40,000 attendees annually. Black professionals in tech still represent less than 5% of the workforce in the United States. Venture funding for Black entrepreneurs remains dismally low, with less than 1% of capital directed toward Black-owned businesses. For Detroit, participation in AfroTech signaled something bigger than representation—it was a move to challenge these statistics and shift the narrative.
At AfroTech, Detroit’s contributions went beyond the numbers. Artists and innovators brought the city’s signature culture to life. Rising talent like Don Lite showed over 400 hundred attendees why Detroit is known for its creativity and authenticity during the Black Tech Saturdays networking event at Post Houston. BTS, a Detroit-based initiative co-founded by Alexa and Johnnie Turnage, played a pivotal role in organizing the delegation. Alexa explained what it meant to bring Detroit to this global stage. “Too often, Detroit is overlooked. This year, our city has been shining as a beacon of possibility and progress for Black and Brown innovators. Our Houston Roadshow was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community. I couldn’t be prouder of what we accomplished, and I’m even more excited to keep the momentum going.”
Johnnie emphasized the importance of showing the world what Detroit has to offer. “This moment at AfroTech, with nearly 40,000 attendees and representation from some of the biggest companies in the world, is a powerful testament to the significance of Detroit’s growing tech ecosystem. Being able to showcase the resilience, creativity, and global impact of the *second fastest-growing tech ecosystem in the world* in one of the largest gatherings of innovation is monumental. We’re honored to have highlighted Detroit’s entrepreneurs, creatives, students, and organizations to a truly global audience, with attendees from Brazil to Africa, Oregon to San Francisco, and New York to Atlanta.”
AfroTech 2024 was more than a networking event. For Detroit, it was a moment to declare its presence in the tech world. Meeting AfroTech founder Morgan DeBaun was a highlight for the Turnage’s. DeBaun has long championed Black innovation, and her recognition of Detroit’s contributions underscored the importance of this work.
The Michigan delegation’s efforts reflected a broader strategy. Doe shared why this type of collaboration is vital for Michigan’s future. “Building meaningful connections with tech talent from Houston and across the country will create pathways to support our Michigan founders. We want the entire country and world to know that Michigan is innovative, creative, and we never quit.”
As impactful as AfroTech was, the work continues. Detroit’s innovators face systemic barriers, including limited access to capital, mentorship, and national opportunities. Black Tech Saturdays is committed to addressing these challenges.
Alexa remains focused on the mission. “When we invest in each other, we all rise,” she said. AfroTech was a reminder of what Detroit’s tech community can achieve, but there is more work to do. The city is poised to grow further, but sustained investments and opportunities will be key to its success.
Johnnie views this as a collective effort. “This is more than a showcase. It’s an invitation for more people to join us in building something extraordinary, rooted in culture, connection, and a shared vision of a brighter future. Together, this is bigger than us, and we’re inviting the world to the party.”
Detroit is proving that it belongs in tech spaces that have historically excluded it. The city is not just participating in the tech movement; it is creating one. AfroTech 2024 was a milestone, but it is not the final destination. It is only the beginning of a larger journey for Detroit’s Black entrepreneurs, students, and tech leaders to define the future of innovation.
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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