Diversity & Inclusion

Minority Innovation Weekend adds emerging technologies track, startup showcase

The event returns to Baltimore Nov. 3-4. Here's a look at what to expect for its second year.

The scene at Minority Innovation Weekend 2017. (Courtesy photo)

Minority Innovation Weekend is looking to provide resources for people looking to start a business, and those who are looking to learn about how new technology is shaping business and society.
The event, organized by the National Society of Black Engineers – Baltimore Metropolitan Area Chapter, returns for its second year on November 3-4 at the University of Baltimore’s H. Mebane Turner Learning Commons.
“Our goal is to aid minority innovators to launch tech-focused startups, understand the impact of emerging technologies, and showcase tech startups that have a minority founder or cofounder,” said NSBE-BMAC President Derek Westray. The event is open to all, Westray said.
DeShuna Spencer, founder of kweliTV, will give the keynote address. Spencer’s startup offers a streaming service for the African diaspora, as our sister site Technical.ly DC has reported.
This year’s conference has two tracks: startup fundamentals and emerging technologies.
“We have speakers that will discuss the fundamental steps needed to turning an idea into a startup,” Westray said. “This year we’ve also added an emerging technologies track with panels dedicated to technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and virtual reality. ”
On the startup fundamentals track, speakers will offer a guide through the steps of building a business.
“The Startup Fundamentals track now includes topics such as ‘To Pivot or Not,’ ‘Customer Acquisition & Gaining Traction,’ ‘Intellectual Property and Patents,’ and ‘Building A Team,'” said Westray.
Panels will also dig into specific tech areas.
“The Emerging Technology track covers topics such as cybersecurity, augmented reality & virtual reality, blockchain, Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence and machine learning. ”
To provide a chance for attendees to interact with founders, the event will also include a showcase featuring 10 companies.
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