AFROTECH Conference 2023 is now in the record books, and it was a history-making event. With 25,000 participants and 170 corporate and enterprise partners, AFROTECH was at its biggest and best.
From Nov. 1-5, 2023, ticket holders excited for growth and opportunity took over the city of Austin, TX, to learn from industry experts and like-minded individuals.
AFROTECH Conference is a top-tier experience. From the fashionable looks of attendees to the life-long connections made, so much went down this year and changed the game for all who pulled up.
A Stage For Everyone
AFROTECH is a tech conference highlighting several industries’ intersections and their impact on the overall entrepreneurial and workforce landscape. This concept was proven across all the stages — from the Learning Labs to the Innovation Stage.
Additionally, the Women’s, Health, and Sports Summits debuted this year. Each one focused on the power of technology, and many had incredible insight into artificial intelligence (AI) and the evolution
Heavy hitters like Timbaland, Robert F. Smith, and Marsai Martin dropped gem after gem that gave insight into the future, the need for DEI, and the power of community and partnerships. And while the conference team doesn’t play favorites, a conversation with Issa Rae was a highlight.
“It really does come down to ‘why are you doing this? Why are you needed to do this?’ That’s the question I have to answer myself,” she expressed in a conversation with AFROTECH’s Senior Vice President Simone White. “What else would you rather be doing if you weren’t doing this? And that’s what keeps me here. I always think about the old job that I had. I definitely don’t want to be doing that. I’m in a much better place.”
A Place To Connect
The Expo Hall at AFROTECH was always the place to be. At no time during the operating hours were there not people walking through the massive space to land a new role, connect with experts, or explore the range of options and opportunities offered by nearly 200 partners.
Music Always Sets The Vibe
And of course, we end all of our events with a bang.
The second year of the AFROTECH Music Stage did not disappoint. Presented by Lexus, ticket holders gathered in the Culture Park with vibes from heavy-hitting artists, some of the nation’s top DJs, dining options from local food trucks, and camaraderie from an extensive network of people.
While Saweetie’s role during AFROTECH was to perform the hits, she too, resonates with the conference’s mission and vision, especially as it relates to her career.
“Prior to my career, I owe my ability to work and multitask at a high level to my experiences in college. I learned how to be resilient in tough times and how to be responsible while managing a work/study/social life. I’ve been able to apply these invaluable skillsets to my day-to-day schedules,” Saweetie told AFROTECH.
The remainder of the AFROTECH Music Stage included a headlining performance from Rick Ross, performing over a decade of hits.
After a captivating show from Hip-Hop’s biggest boss, ticket holders took a quick breath, then headed to ACL Live at the Moody Theater for AFROTECH Music After Hours, which included a performance from Jadakiss with guests Jae Murphy and Jasmine Solano.
Houston, We Have A Problem
Now, we have a problem. AFROTECH Conference 2024 is on its way to Houston, TX.
The conference will remain in Texas but head a couple of hours south. As with every AFROTECH, the conference will be excellent and promises to level up with a new year on the horizon.
“As we plan for next year, just know, we heard you,” Blavity Inc. and AFROTECH Founder Morgan DeBaun said in a LinkedIn post. “In 2024, look forward to larger stage sizes, more founder conversations, tech deep dives, and a lower entry price starting at $250. We move fast with feedback, and new growth always presents new opportunities!”
Consider this your one-year notice to attend the nation’s most prominent Black tech conference.
Connections were made, opportunities presented, and vibes were unmatched.
Early bird prices are on sale now.
Grab your squad, start your plans, and meet the team in Houston for AFROTECH Conference 2024.
See you next year.
