HBCU Grad Wins Big with Brain-Controlled Tech

Imagine controlling technology just by thinking! That’s the reality Joey Taylor, a recent graduate from Oakwood University, an HBCU in Huntsville, Alabama, is bringing to life. He recently clinched first place and a $15,000 prize at the HBCU Founders Initiative’s (HBCUFI) 2025 Better Futures Competition for his groundbreaking brain-computer interface prototype, Mycelium.

From Recycled Parts to Neuroscience Innovation

Taylor’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. His fascination with technology began early, even building his first computer from recycled parts in Costa Rica. Now, his work masterfully blends neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge innovation. The HBCUFI, launched in 2021 by Nex Cubed, is dedicated to closing the wealth gap by empowering HBCU students and alumni to build tech-driven ventures, and Taylor’s win is a significant achievement for the initiative.

Before Mycelium, Taylor built a strong foundation as a freelance data engineer and researcher. However, his time at NASA, starting at just 18, proved to be a pivotal experience. “The investment that strangers were making in me gave me a confidence boost that I’d never had before,” Taylor shared with AFROTECH™, crediting his parents’ early encouragement as a significant motivator.

A High-Stakes Competition and a Bright Future

Taylor was one of six finalists competing for a share of the $25,000 prize pool at the Better Futures Competition. The event buzzed with energy, drawing investors, tech professionals, and HBCU alumni eager to witness innovations tackling significant challenges. Taylor admitted his nerves, hoping for at least third place, and felt immense relief when he was announced as the winner, securing the $15,000 prize.

This funding is crucial for Mycelium’s development, allowing Taylor to cover essential business expenses like taxes, patents, and the costly hardware needed to refine the system. “People sometimes forget that when you start a business… you still incur taxes,” he explained, highlighting the practical financial hurdles of entrepreneurship.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

Beyond his technological achievements, Taylor is deeply committed to representation. He often visits schools, donning his NASA lab coat to inspire young students, particularly those of color who may lack role models in STEM fields. He cited movies like “Hidden Figures” as examples of the impact representation can have.

Taylor’s guiding principle is simple yet profound: “stop overthinking.” He encourages aspiring innovators to embrace imperfection, stating, “To do something great, you have to be willing to do something horribly first. You can’t be amazing if you didn’t start off as ‘trash.’” He believes that embracing the discomfort of failure while staying motivated by success is the ultimate winning combination.

He also sees HBCUs as pivotal to the future of innovation, noting their growing recognition and the capability of their students. “HBCUs with the most amounts of funding can definitely be the origin story for future top 500 companies,” he stated, encouraging more investment in these vital institutions.