Since 2006, New Orleans has earned the distinction of being one of the fastest growing tech hubs in the country, with over 20,000 jobs created in the industry. In light of this, the past four years have seen the emergence of NOLAvate Black, an organization dedicated to providing assistance to Black people and those from under-resourced communities who are looking to gain access to high-demand and high-wage jobs in the growing technology sector.
This year, from June 27 - June 29, New Orleans will be host to NOLAvate Black's 5th Annual Black Tech Week, a gathering of the largest tech creatives in the south to celebrate the intersection of technology, arts, and culture. In attendance will be a number of creators, influencers, and innovators within the industry, offering unique opportunities to those who want to start their career or engage in a little networking.
The convention will also host a number of programs geared specifically towards education and employment of attendees, such as interactive workshops demonstrating how to build a game, learn to code, or create NFTS, gaming summits centered on discussing the world of web3, gaming, and the metaverse, as well as the Black Tech 4 Good HBCU Pitch Competition, which offers teams currently enrolled at an HBCU the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of investors (criteria for entry and application form can be found in the preceding link).
Black Tech Nola 2022 will be held at the Westin Hotel in Downtown New Orleans and will conclude just before the start of Essence Festival in the city. Since 2018, NOLAvate Black has proven that the Black tech community in New Orleans is alive and thriving, and plays a crucial role in the rise of what is being referred to as the Silicon South. In the words of CEO Sabrina N. Short, "Yes, we have been here! All we ask is that you give us our space and not block our progress."
Tickets and further info about the convention can be found here. General Admission starts at $200 and is available until June 1, and virtual experience tickets available for $50. Address for the Westin Hotel is 100 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130.
