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.
WE CREATE WHAT'S MISSING
COMMUNITY
.png){kind=small}
-
Co-working days that bring people together consistently
-
Wellness-centered conversations that make space for the whole person
-
Social experiences like day parties, karaoke, record nights, and holiday gatherings
-
Community touchpoints that help people feel connected, seen, and supported
PATHWAYS
-
In-person follow-ups that keep Career Shifters and Tech Climbers moving
-
Resume reviews, LinkedIn optimization, and headshot days tied to real career growth
-
Labs, hackathons, and live sessions that turn learning into action
-
Structured support that helps people move from interest to opportunity
CONNECTION
-
Women in Tech Night Out and Men in Tech Night Out
-
Intentional rooms built for real connection, not awkward small talk
-
Reverse Pitch Night and hiring-centered experiences that open doors
-
Opportunities to meet peers, employers, collaborators, and creatives in the same ecosystem
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.
.png){kind=logo}
_edited.png)
BECOME A MEMBER
(4)_edited.png)
Real community. Real impact. Real access.
BTI members move different
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.
MEMBERSHIP PATHWAYS
Choose the BTI pathway that best matches where you are right now. Our membership pathways are designed to connect you to the right community, support, and tech-driven opportunities—whether you’re an HBCU alum exploring your next move, a career shifter breaking into tech, or a tech climber ready to level up.
Career-Shifter Pathway
Designed for professionals moving into tech from nontraditional backgrounds through community support, career guidance, partner-based learning pathways, and intentional ecosystem access.
