Blavity Inc. has assembled a coalition of leaders to drive equity in technology. In a news release, the technology and news media company has shared it has formed the AFROTECH™ Advisory Board.
The board will dedicate its focus to workplace equity and ensuring underrepresented employees, founders, and startups can obtain access to capital and economic mobility.
“Mobilizing this consortium is a crucial move towards amplifying our impact and reach in creating a more equitable tech industry,” Morgan DeBaun, founder and CEO of Blavity Inc., said in a press statement. “Our concerted effort will focus on practical initiatives that not only enhance workplace equity but also promote significant access to capital and opportunities for our community’s members.”
The AFROTECH™ Advisory Board includes representatives of Amazon, American Express, Black Economic Alliance, Chewy, GAP, Google, Infoblox, Jordan Brand, Lam Research, LinkedIn, Lockheed Martin, L’Oréal, Mastercard, Morgan Stanley, Moët Hennessy, NAACP, Prudential, Silicon Valley Bank, Starbucks, Walton Isaacson, and Wells Fargo.
Through quarterly meetings, members will gather to consider how to address the board’s areas of focus, which include enhancing workplace equity initiatives, driving progressive policies, and supporting underrepresented founders and startups. The goals are to create more inclusive and supportive environments for underrepresented employees across sectors, advocate for policies that advance both fairness and innovation in the tech industry, and equip founders and startups with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive financially.
“With the substantial economic influence of the Black community, which is projected to reach $1.8 trillion this year, prioritizing equity is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic business need,” DeBaun said. “The AFROTECH™ Advisory Board is set to be a driving force for innovation and inclusivity within the tech sector.”
