Oakland Startup Network of the Kapor Center in partnership with Black & Brown Founders is launching the Tech x Oakland (Tech x OAK) Summit, a two-day gathering for founders of color created by founders of color, which will take place April 20, 2018 (9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.) at Kapor Center and April 21, 2018 (9:30 a.m.–9 p.m.) at Port Workspaces in Oakland, California. The event will consist of workshops, lightning talks, panels, mentor sessions, and networking.
According to a recent release, the Tech x OAK Summit is focused on helping innovators of color launch and scale startups in Oakland from idea to revenue. This is a hands-on workshop, limited to 100 guests, committed to engaging with each startup founder and building lasting relationships. The Summit’s goal is for each entrepreneur to leave with actionable items and resources that can immediately be applied at any stage of their business.
Oakland Startup Network (Image: Kapor Center for Social Impact)
“Each tech conference is the same and lacks actionable content. We want to intentionally focus on the black and brown entrepreneurs by creating a safe space for founders to learn, be mentored, and network with one another,” said Lili Gangas, chief technology community officer of the Kapor Center.
The release states that the Kapor Center and Black & Brown Founders are organizations that believe entrepreneurship is a pathway to economic security. Both companies are dedicated to providing resources and education to underrepresented groups with limited capital. Oakland Startup Network is an initiative of the Kapor Center and focused on helping founders throughout their entrepreneurial journey from idea through pre-seed. In just 10 months, Oakland Startup Network has already reached 1,000+ entrepreneurs and begun tracking the growth of companies in the East Bay. By partnering with Black & Brown Founders, Oakland Startup Network is now able to reach entrepreneurs of color throughout the East Bay region and beyond.
“Tech x OAK is for Oakland, by Oakland. We want to activate our diverse tech community and eventually create tech jobs for people of color,” stated Chris McLemore, program manager of Oakland Startup Network.
“We’re so excited to team up on this event. Our teams are working to be the change we want to see in this ecosystem. We are out here trying to help our people participate in this burgeoning new economy. It’s imperative.” stated Aniyia Williams, executive director, Black & Brown Founders.
The Summit will be followed by an after-party, which will give attendees the opportunity to mix, mingle, and talk business with food, drinks, music, and games.
To register, click here.