Pathways.
People.
Possibility.
Our Why
BTI is a 501(c)(3) community-impact nonprofit advancing community, culture, and equitable access in tech. We connect underrepresented adults to opportunity through public programs, mentorship networks, inclusion and wellness initiatives, and easy-to-use resource guides across Charlotte’s tech and creative economy.
Our work is rooted in community — creating spaces where collaboration, shared learning, and belonging drive real progress. We measure impact not just by numbers, but by the confidence, access, and opportunities our members gain. Through culture, we highlight creativity, identity, and storytelling as engines of innovation and empowerment.
Together, these pillars form a unique ecosystem that blends tech, art, and community — from interactive events and inclusive meetups to tailored pathways for career shifters, founders, and creators. BTI exists to make tech accessible, human, and reflective of the diverse communities it serves.
OUR ECOSYSTEM
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Community
People-first tech gatherings and supports that foster belonging, well-being, and everyday stability. We create welcoming spaces, share clear information, and help the tech community navigate what’s next—together.
Pathways
Tech cohorts and labs that provide guidance, mentorship, and structured wayfinding to partner learning and opportunities. Participants move with a plan, a peer circle, and practical support.
Networking
Open, inclusive tech events that connect techies, creators, and employers. We showcase work, spark collaboration, and make it easier to discover pathways across tech and creative ecosystems.
PARTNERSHIPS & COLLBORATIONS
These mission-aligned partners help us open doors to learning, tools, and opportunity—so more people in our community can build skills, confidence, and careers in tech.now a little more about you.
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Mission
Our mission is to transform how communities experience tech — creating spaces where culture, innovation, and opportunity intersect for lasting social and economic impact
Values
We believe change begins in community—through shared learning, creativity, and collaboration that celebrate culture, expand equity, and unlock opportunity for all
2025 IMPACT REPORT
FIRST YEAR (2025)
In our first year, BTI has connected thousands of Black technologists, activated multiple venues, curated engaging events, supported career pathways, empowered founders like Taylor, and expanded learning through strategic partnerships — all advancing equitable access and opportunity in Charlotte’s tech ecosystem.
Community Reach
4,200+ Black technologists reached through programs, events, and partnerships
Curated Experiences
11 exclusive events curated for founders, learners, and industry leaders
In-Person Engagement
1,500+ Black techies connected face-to-face
Strategic Partnerships
Secured 6 mission-aligned partnerships with Google for Nonprofits, Saylor Academy, Coursera, DataCamp, and Grow Google to advance equitable access in tech
Venue Activation
6 Charlotte venues activated for tech meetups, pitch nights, and learning labs
Tech Founder & Career Pathways
Supported 45 candidates in applying with leading tech companies and helped one Tech founder launch her platform through funding, activations, and team support
THE STATE OF THE
BLACK TECH ECOSYSTEM
State of Tech Diversity
1.6%
In AI and machine learning roles, Black professionals represent only 1.6% of all workers globally
1.3%
Black founders received just 1.3% of $288B of capital deployed
7%
Black students earn only 7% of STEM bachelor’s degrees
5%
Cohorts allocate less than 5% of their curriculum to soft skills, career navigation, or interpersonal development
Diversity. Inclusion. Equity.
PATHWAYS & TRACKS
Discover Your Next Move: Choose a track, meet the right people, and access partner resources—simple, supportive, and community-led.
Career-Shifter Pathways
BTI’s Career-Shifter Navigation connects transitioning professionals to third-party learning, mentor circles, and curated community touchpoints in Charlotte’s tech scene
