Black Tech Saturdays (BTS), an initiative propelling Detroit’s Black tech entrepreneurs, has been awarded a $1.2 million grant from the Gilbert Family Foundation.
This two-year funding will enable BTS to widen its scope of support through increased access to mentorship, capital, and essential resources for local innovators who participate in its workshops.
Investing in Detroit’s Black Tech Community
Founded in April 2023 by husband-and-wife team Johnnie and Alexa Turnage, BTS has quickly become a hub for budding entrepreneurs, drawing hundreds each week to its Saturday events.
This grant will be pivotal in expanding BTS’s operations, which include hiring at least six new employees to enhance career development services, organizing 300 mentor sessions, and sponsoring pitch competitions that foster practical business skills.
The next major competition, set for December 14, will reward three entrepreneurs with grants of $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000.
“All Detroiters deserve the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the city’s growing tech sector,” said Laura Grannemann, executive director of the Gilbert Family Foundation, according to The Detroit News.
“Johnnie and Alexa Turnage have built an incredible community through Black Tech Saturdays, and we are proud to work with them to dismantle the systemic barriers that have historically limited opportunity for Black residents.”
Expanding Programs and Building Economic Impact
According to the release shared with The Detroit News, BTS has already impacted over 15,000 individuals and generated approximately $30 million in economic growth through boosted business revenue, investments, and job creation.
With the Gilbert Family Foundation’s support, BTS plans to introduce new programs such as targeted workshops on brand storytelling and relationship-building, a digital library of resources, and personalized coaching for entrepreneurs.
“Tech is a great equalizer… If we can start getting people to higher thresholds, a lot of the issues in cities like Detroit could be solved,” Johnnie Turnage said.
Feature Image Credit: Black Tech Saturdays
