Black Women Talk Tech Conference founders
“The Roadmap to Billions” Black Women Talk Tech’s 2nd annual conference has kicked off in NYC. Sponsored by Microsoft, the two-day symposium is focused on tearing down roadblocks and promoting #blackgirlmagic in the tech industry. The New York City Conference, February 28 – March 1, includes two full days of keynotes, workshops, expert panels, a $10,000 pitch competition, founder showcases, performances, celebrations, and much more.
The first day is tailored exclusively for black women founders, giving them the blueprint of how to build a billion-dollar company. Attendees will connect one-on-one with investors, listen to workshops tailored to their businesses, and have exclusive opportunities to promote their companies to the media. This day is an invite-only event.
Day two is focused on giving our black female founders the spotlight. Guests will enjoy unique content, tons of swag, and the opportunity to network and make invaluable connections.
The event seeks to help startups connect with investors and business expertise. With research showing that black women are the fastest growing group of female entrepreneurs, black women in tech are no longer hidden figures, but there is a funding gap to support their innovation.
It’s being hosted by the three founders of Black Women Talk Tech, who say they started the conference because they saw how hard black women are working to create billion dollar businesses, but are still struggling to be seen, supported, and funded.
Lauren Washington: Co-founder and CEO, KeepUp
Esosa Ighodaro: Co-founder and President, COSIGN
Regina Gwynn: Co-founder & CEO, TresseNoire
Some of the confirmed keynotes, speakers, panelists, and hosts include:
• Angel Rich, Wealthy Life, Founder & CEO
• Lauren Maillan, Don’t Quit Your Day Job, Host
• Sequoia Blodgett, Black Enterprise, Tech Editor
• Jean Brownhill, Sweeten, Founder & CEO
• Richelieu Dennis, Sundial Brands, Founder & CEO (New Owner of Essence Magazine)
• Heather Hiles, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Deputy Director for Postsecondary Success
• Candace Mitchell, Myavana, Cofounder & CEO
• Tonya Lewis Lee, Movita & ToniK Productions Founder