Michael Butler was a reporter for Technical.ly in Philly and a Report For America corps member from June 2020 to December 2021. He graduated from Temple University in 2016. In 2019, he was one of the recipients of the Lenfest Institute for Journalism’s inaugural Next Generation Award grant, and selected by the Maynard Institute for Journalism to be a Maynard 200 fellow. Report for America is an initiative of The Groundtruth Project that pairs young journalists with local newsrooms. His position was supported by the Lenfest Institute for Journalism.

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Dec. 7, 2021 2:45 pm

What is 1Philadelphia? Sylvester Mobley on building infrastructure for racial equity in Philly tech

By Michael Butler /

With the inclusive talent pipeline and entrepreneurship initiative, Coded by Kids' Mobley is focusing on the systemic problems blocking Black and brown technologists and founders from success.

Dec. 3, 2021 5:57 pm

Toward a more inclusive Philadelphia: 5 lessons from my time covering tech and business

By Michael Butler /

As reporter Michael Butler ends his time at Technical.ly, he reflects some of the most insightful stories he wrote and trends he followed.

Dec. 1, 2021 12:18 pm

How can entrepreneurs tackle health inequities with tech solutions?

By Michael Butler /

As the saying goes, those closest to the problem are often closest to the solution. Here's a look at local founders using technology to bring affordability, cultural awareness and ease to Black and brown communities underserved by the traditional healthcare system.

Nov. 29, 2021 12:11 pm

Resource Roundup: Snag funding for your product idea or to boost your Black-owned small biz

By Michael Butler /

Plus, check out this tool from the City of Philadelphia to help Black men and boys find resources, an app from a local data analyst to find public bathrooms and more.

Nov. 24, 2021 2:39 pm

Everyday Web launches with the aim to give entrepreneurs of color the digital tools to thrive

By Michael Butler /

Two former web designers launched Everyday Web earlier this year, after noticing that the pandemic left many small businesses struggling to move business online.

Nov. 23, 2021 4:14 pm

Bala Cynwyd ecommerce company WatchBox raises $165M in equity capital

By Michael Butler /

The luxury watch retailer received an investment that reflects a global surge of aftermarket watch sales during the pandemic, and plans to expand its online platform in the coming months.

Nov. 22, 2021 4:14 pm

The pandemic became a lesson in adaptation for these Black women leading cosmetics startups

By Michael Butler /

As cosmetics and fragrance sales took a tumble during the pandemic, two local cosmetic founders discuss how they've built their businesses in spite of those challenges.

Nov. 18, 2021 3:35 pm

How 4 technologists practice self-care during colder months of the pandemic

By Michael Butler /

From setting aside time each morning to reflect on your life, to playing virtual exercise games with friends, these tech pros share how they take care of themselves during the fall and winter months.

Nov. 17, 2021 5:31 pm

JPMorgan Chase is granting $750K to ‘Built by Philly,’ a new digital resource for entrepreneurs of color

By Michael Butler /

With a $750,000 investment from JP Morgan Chase, the new initiative Built By Philly will guide entrepreneurs of color through growing their businesses.

Nov. 16, 2021 3:07 pm

Tech education nonprofit Hopeworks is giving away a brand-new website to a Black entrepreneur

By Michael Butler /

Black business owners in New Jersey, Delaware or the Greater Philadelphia area are eligible to apply.