Five (5) Black-Owned Tech Businesses in the U.S. you should consider investing in
By Staff Writers, BLKPRENEURSHIP.COM
5 minute read – Wed Aug 14, 2024
In the United States, Black-owned tech companies are essential to innovation, job growth, and Black community economic development. Not only are businesses like Blavity, managed by Morgan DeBaun, and Calendly, established by Tope Awotona, altering the tech landscape, but they are also paving the road for greater inclusion and diversity in the sector. These companies give Black workers vital chances to succeed in the tech sector, where they are still underrepresented. These businesses assist in removing structural obstacles by creating conditions where Black talent may flourish and by providing leadership, investment, and mentoring possibilities that might not otherwise be available.
A more egalitarian future, where economic power is dispersed more fairly, and where innovation reflects the different perspectives of all groups are the driving forces behind the expansion of Black-owned digital companies. The accomplishments of these companies highlight the necessity of ongoing assistance and funding for Black tech entrepreneurs, as they are critical to advancing social and economic justice and maintaining the tech sector’s role as a catalyst for constructive change. Here is blkpreneurship.com’s top list of five (5) Black-Owned Tech Businesses in the U.S. you should consider investing in.
1. Calendly
Calendly is a prominent schedule automation tool that was created in 2013 to streamline meeting coordination. It was developed by Nigerian-born entrepreneur Tope Awotona. What started off as a personal annoyance with the shortcomings of email-based scheduling swiftly expanded into a worldwide utilized application used by millions of individuals and businesses.
Beyond efficiency, Tope Awotona’s mission for Calendly includes a dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech sector. Under his direction, Calendly makes a concerted effort to close the notable gap in Black employment in the tech industry by providing opportunities for Black tech experts. Calendly supports efforts that elevate underprivileged populations and cultivates an inclusive workplace, which furthers the company’s larger goal of increasing accessibility and equity in the tech sector. In addition to improving the company’s staff, this emphasis on inclusion aims to establish a precedent for the sector by demonstrating that diversity is essential for success and creativity.
2. Re-Nuble
Tinia Pina is the CEO and founder of Re-Nuble, a cutting-edge agricultural technology startup with headquarters in New York. Re-Nuble is a 2015-founded company that turns food waste into organic fertilizers that are sustainable and good for the environment. This closed-loop approach helps both urban farming and the environment. Re-Nuble is driven by Tinia’s enthusiasm for sustainability and social impact, which is why the company works to encourage eco-friendly farming techniques and minimize waste.
Beyond her innovative work in the environment, Tinia Pina has a strong commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity in the tech and agriculture industries. Re-Nuble, led by her, promotes the presence of Black professionals and underrepresented minorities in the technology industry, realizing the value of varied viewpoints in bringing about significant change. Tinia’s efforts are part of a larger effort to provide Black tech professionals more options. Her goal is to break down barriers and offer avenues for growth in fields where Black people have historically been underrepresented. Tinia Pina is a trailblazer in sustainable solutions and an advocate for a more diverse and fair future for the tech workforce through Re-Nuble.
3. Zyrobotics
Zyrobotics, a leader in educational technology that specializes in adaptable learning tools for kids with a range of abilities, was founded and is led by Dr. Ayanna Howard. Zyrobotics, a company founded in 2013, uses AI and robotics to develop inclusive, accessible learning environments that enable kids to realize their full potential. Renowned roboticist and educator Dr. Howard joins the organization with her knowledge and enthusiasm for innovation, making sure that technology is used as a tool for inclusion rather than disempowerment.
Under Dr. Ayanna Howard’s direction, Zyrobotics is a pioneer in educational technology, specializing on flexible learning resources for children with a variety of skills. In order to create inclusive, accessible learning environments that help children reach their full potential, Zyrobotics uses robotics and artificial intelligence. Celebrity educator and roboticist Dr. Howard joins the company, bringing with her her expertise and excitement for new ideas to ensure that technology is utilized to empower people rather than divide them.
The revolutionary platform Career Karma, which was introduced in 2018 and links people with professional development possibilities, especially in the tech industry, is led by its founder and CEO, Ruben Harris. In order to assist people from a variety of backgrounds in making the shift into the computer industry, Career Karma offers resources, mentorship, and access to coding bootcamps. Ruben is driven to ensure that everyone has access to tech education and career possibilities, particularly those from marginalized areas, as a result of his own path from non-technical background to tech leader.
Career Karma is led by Ruben Harris with the goal of expanding diversity and inclusivity in the software industry. By removing barriers to access in the computer industry, the platform specifically intends to empower Black professionals and other underrepresented groups. Career Karma assists people in developing the networks and abilities necessary to be successful in the technology industry by offering individualized support and cultivating a community of learners and mentors. Ruben wants to make sure that everyone, from all backgrounds, has the chance to succeed in one of the most exciting and profitable industries by democratizing access to IT education and careers. Ruben Harris is spearheading a shift in the software industry toward greater equity and inclusivity through Career Karma.
5. Kiira
Kiira is a digital health platform that focuses on individualized and accessible healthcare for women, with a special emphasis on women of color. Its founder and CEO, Crystal Adesanya, is the driving force behind the company. Kiira, which was founded in 2018, makes it simpler for women to get the treatment they require by providing a seamless combination of telemedicine, in-person care, and health education. Crystal was motivated to create Kiira by her own experiences as well as her awareness of the disparities in women’s access to and quality of healthcare, particularly for those from underrepresented groups.
In addition to transforming women’s healthcare, Crystal Adesanya’s leadership at Kiira is promoting inclusiveness and diversity in the digital sector. Since diversity in the tech industry fosters more creative and inclusive solutions, she is dedicated to fostering opportunities for Black tech professionals and underrepresented groups. With Kiira, Crystal is creating a business that not only solves important healthcare inequalities but also acts as a template for more inclusive tech companies. Her goal is to give Black professionals the chances and resources they need to succeed in the computer industry, so that the workforce in this field represents the diversity of the communities it serves.
Black-owned tech businesses like Calendly, Re-Nuble, Zyrobotics, Career Karma, and Kiira are not only transforming their respective industries but are also vital to fostering diversity and inclusion in tech. These businesses are fostering innovation, generating jobs, and giving Black professionals vital chances to succeed in an area where they have historically been underrepresented. Building a more fair industry and ensuring that the tech sector benefits from the talents and perspectives of all communities depend on the rise of Black-owned tech companies. It is essential to assist these companies in order to further social and economic advancement.
Follow blkpreneurship.com on social media for the latest stories and updates: