When you think of Detroit, visions of Motown legends and automotive giants come to mind. But in recent years, Detroit has been making waves in the tech scene, proving that innovation and resilience go hand in hand. At the heart of this technological renaissance are three powerhouses: the Rocket Community Fund (RCF), Microsoft, and Black Tech Saturdays. Their latest collaboration, “AI Explained Detroit,” is not just an event—it’s a groundbreaking movement designed to demystify Generative AI and harness its potential for Detroit’s non-profits, small businesses, and service providers.
The “AI Explained Detroit” event, held at The Icon, was a tour de force of intellectual engagement and community empowerment. This was not your average tech conference; it was a confluence of minds and missions, all aimed at bridging Detroit’s digital divide and fostering equitable access to cutting-edge technology. Generative AI—sounds complex, right? But at this event, it was all about making the complex accessible. Imagine an AI that can create, innovate, and transform on its own, like an artist painting on a digital canvas. For non-profits and small businesses, this translates to streamlined operations, cost-cutting efficiencies, and amplified impact.
The dynamic partnerships driving Detroit’s tech progress were on full display. The Rocket Community Fund (RCF) is known for its relentless commitment to community development and is on a mission to bridge digital divides through their “Changing the Course: Bridging Digital Divides” campaign. Microsoft, with its extensive expertise in AI and philanthropy, is the linchpin in transforming tech landscapes globally. Black Tech Saturdays, founded by Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, is a beacon for tech innovation and diversity in Detroit, creating pathways for Black professionals in the tech industry.
The event featured immersive workshops led by a Microsoft TechSpark Fellow, tackling real-world challenges with AI tools. Participants didn’t just learn about AI—they experienced its transformative power firsthand. Panel discussions with thought leaders like Autumn Evans from RCF, Erika Smith from Microsoft Philanthropy, and Art Thompson from the City of Detroit provided deep insights into leveraging technology for community empowerment. The Rocket Community Fund’s announcement of their $320,000 investment in Black Tech Saturdays was a game-changer, empowering BTS to continue fostering tech innovation and diversity within the Detroit community.
“Access to technology is fundamental to economic empowerment and community growth,” said Laura Grannemann, Executive Director of Rocket Community Fund. “As we work to bridge the digital divide, one essential ingredient is community engagement. This investment in Black Tech Saturdays will support programs that equip Detroiters with essential digital skills and resources to foster prosperity for Detroit residents.”
Speakers at the event were not just delivering talks; they were igniting a movement. Autumn Evans highlighted RCF’s dedication to ensuring equitable access to technology. Erika Smith emphasized the transformative power of AI for non-profits and small businesses. Johnnie Turnage shared BTS’s journey and the importance of tech inclusion. Shawn Malhotra, CTO of Rocket Companies, and Josh Zook, CTO of Rocket Mortgage, discussed the practical applications of AI in business. Art Thompson spoke on the city’s vision for a tech-empowered future.
The Rocket Community Fund’s “Changing the Course” campaign is not just a slogan—it’s a strategic, multi-faceted approach to tackling digital inequities. From community engagement and storytelling to resource access and infrastructure, this initiative is about creating a digital ecosystem where every Detroiter has the tools and skills to thrive. This investment and collaborative effort are monumental for several reasons. It’s about ensuring all Detroiters, regardless of their background, have access to the digital economy. Technology is a gateway to growth and success for small businesses and non-profits, creating new pathways for prosperity. It fosters a sense of ownership and agency over technology within Detroit’s neighborhoods, ensuring that the benefits of tech advancements are felt across the community.
“We are honored and humbled for this acknowledgement of our work with black tech Saturdays,” shared Alexa. “And also, Rocket’s commitment to access and accessibility to Black and Brown founders not only in Detroit, but around the country.”
The significance of this investment in Black Tech Saturdays (BTS) cannot be overstated. By empowering BTS, the Rocket Community Fund is investing in an organization that directly addresses the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs and tech professionals in Detroit. This initiative not only supports the local tech ecosystem but also sets a precedent for other cities to follow, showcasing how targeted investments can drive substantial community impact. For the Detroit community, particularly Black entrepreneurs, this means greater access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities that were previously out of reach. It is a bold statement that Detroit is serious about tech inclusion and economic empowerment, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and everyone has a chance to succeed.
“I feel very grateful, but I think to me, the more exciting part about the investment recognition for Black Tech Saturdays is the commitment to take all this innovation and tech energy into the neighborhoods, into the communities where there are some very, very innovative people who are doing some super cool stuff and don’t have the same access,” Johnnie shared. “And if the last year taught me anything, it’s that there are some really talented people in Detroit who don’t get into the rooms. And so, us being able to bring tech experts and tech conversations to communities is absolutely satisfying.”
The Turnages’ sole vision with Black Tech Saturdays (BTS) has been to uplift the community and provide those seeking a chance with just that—a hand up. Both Alexa and Johnnie Turnage, with a relentless drive to create opportunities, have transformed BTS into a pillar of hope and innovation in Detroit. With every workshop, mentorship program, and networking event, BTS has been dismantling barriers and opening new doors. This latest investment from the Rocket Community Fund is not merely financial support—it’s a resounding endorsement of the profound impact they’ve already made and a powerful catalyst for their ongoing mission. “That’s the exciting part for us, is the support of the community and bringing all of Detroit into this conversation, I think it could be huge for what it means for building wealth and generations to come,” Johnnie said.
This $320,000 investment, coupled with all the moves they’ve made thus far, is about building a sustainable future. It’s about creating a thriving ecosystem where every aspiring tech entrepreneur in Detroit has the resources, support, and opportunities to turn their dreams into reality. The Turnage continues to forge a path where innovation meets inclusion, ensuring that the tech revolution in Detroit is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself.
Creating opportunity is at the heart of what BTS does and continues to set out to do. This commitment to community upliftment is not just changing lives—it’s transforming the entire city. By bridging the digital divide and fostering a culture of tech empowerment, BTS is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Detroit. This initiative is ceiling-shattering, groundbreaking, and undeniably necessary. The Turnages are not just creating opportunities—they are revolutionizing the tech landscape, making sure every Detroiter has a shot at success.
The broader impact of this initiative extends beyond the city, promising to attract and retain talent in Michigan. As Detroit becomes a hub for tech innovation, it will inevitably draw in professionals and entrepreneurs eager to be part of this vibrant, inclusive tech scene. This influx of talent will not only boost the local economy but also position Detroit as a leading city in the tech world, challenging the dominance of traditional tech hubs like Silicon Valley. The commitment to bridging digital divides and fostering a diverse tech community ensures that Detroit is not just a city of the future but a model for how equitable tech advancement can be achieved.
“AI Explained Detroit” was more than an event—it was a testament to what’s possible when community, technology, and vision converge. It’s a beacon for other cities looking to bridge their own digital divides and a reminder that with the right partnerships and investments, the future is not just imagined but realized. As Detroit continues to rise, one thing is clear: the city’s tech potential is boundless, and with the support of RCF, Microsoft, and Black Tech Saturdays, there’s no limit to what can be achieved. Together, they’re not just unlocking tech potential—they’re creating a future where every Detroiter has a seat at the table.
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