The UrbanGeekz 50 List 2023

The “UrbanGeekz 50: Gamechangers in Tech, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship’ is our inaugural list of trailblazing Black Disruptors making waves in the innovation economy. It’s our way of recognizing outstanding leaders who have demonstrated impact and influence in venture, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Drawing from our work at UrbanGeekz, and presented by MHR International, our first-ever list recognizes the most innovative, imaginative, and inspirational game-changers from across the U.S., Africa, and Europe. Standout changemakers such as Kelly Burton, Marlon Nichols, Tope Awotona, and Izzy Obeng are just some of the honorees featured.

By using a unique set of data points, we accessed each honoree’s reach, influence, and the significance of their work. We also reached out to our networks to broaden the selection process. Rockstar Ollen Douglass was just one of the leaders who gave us suggestions.

In the end, our team curated 10 distinct verticals that highlight mainly, although not exclusively, tech-enabled ventures. The categories are Venture; Software; FinTech; AI and Machine Learning, Digital Media; Food, Climate & Health; Business-to-Consumer; Community Builders & Ecosystem Warriors, Africa, and Europe.

In our 2023 listicle, we feature eight outstanding individuals leading unicorn companies. Black-led unicorns are rare. Our goal is to showcase these leaders or aspirational role models for ambitious innovators.

By far our largest category is Community Builders & Ecosystem Warriors. We recognize that these operators often lay the foundation for success. They work tirelessly behind the scenes providing much-needed support for Black founders to thrive.

The first-ever UrbanGeekz 50 List features 12 Atlantans,  the city with the most honorees

We also highlight visionaries from Africa and Europe. We are well aware that these regions, especially countries like Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa, are fast-growing tech hubs. As our global footprint continues to grow these markets will continue to be key regions for our brand.

What’s important to note is this is not a definitive list. Rather we’d describe it as a snapshot of talent. So, for instance, we have already published well-received listicles on venture capital but almost all the people highlighted in those articles don’t feature on UrbanGeekz 50. Why? We simply do not have the capacity in a list of 50. We also believe it’s important to highlight other unsung heroes. The list will be updated annually.

Our presenting sponsor MHR International is an Atlanta-based management consulting firm. With over 25 years of service, the company has a track record of success, managing and providing strategic guidance to multimillion-dollar and multi-billion initiatives. Major projects under its belt include the Centennial Olympic Games, Georgia World Congress Center Expansion IV, and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport expansion.

We also need to give a special shoutout to Albert Lewis and Erica Billups Johnson from Archetype, a top-notch global agency that partners with creators and industry leaders to build compelling brands. Billups Johnson is also the co-creator and co-lead of Archetype Ascend, a division with Archetype focused on providing branding, communications strategy, and support for Black and Brown founders, executives, and VCs.

We are so grateful to have collaborated with these experts on the visuals and branding for this project.

We hope you enjoy our work.

Kunbi, Founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz