What began as a small gathering in San Francisco has blossomed into a monumental force in the tech world. The AFROTECH™ Conference is gearing up to celebrate a decade of fostering innovation and creating infinite impact, marking a significant milestone in its journey to empower Black professionals and entrepreneurs in technology.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Hub
Back in 2016, Blavity Inc. co-founders Morgan DeBaun and Jeff Nelson recognized a critical gap. While major tech conferences offered ample opportunities, they weren’t fully accessible or representative of Black and brown individuals. Their solution? Launching AFROTECH™ in the Bay Area with just 650 attendees, proving there was a strong demand for a space dedicated to their community.
By 2019, the conference had outgrown its initial location, moving to Oakland. This wasn’t just a geographical shift; it was a powerful statement of belonging and pride, cementing the conference’s “for us, by us” ethos. Attendance soared past 10,000, solidifying AFROTECH™ as a foundational space for Black innovators.
Navigating Challenges, Embracing Growth
When the pandemic hit, AFROTECH™ didn’t falter. It adapted, expanding into the digital realm with AFROTECH™ World, a virtual experience that kept the community connected in the metaverse. This pivot demonstrated that AFROTECH™ is more than just a conference; it’s a resilient ecosystem built on a people-first foundation.
The return to in-person events saw AFROTECH™ find a new home in Austin, TX, in 2022. This marked a significant growth era, with over 25,000 attendees filling the city. The conference introduced new elements like AFROTECH™ Music and the AFROTECH™ Future Awards, further bridging business, culture, and community.
Houston: A New Era of Innovation
The evolution continued in 2024 with AFROTECH™’s debut in Houston, TX. The city transformed into a vibrant hub, attracting over 37,500 attendees for four days of programming exploring the intersection of technology and culture. High-profile speakers like will.i.am, T.I., and Colin Kaepernick shared insights, fueling conversations that led to business growth and innovation.
In 2025, the momentum surged with over 40,000 attendees discussing “Building What’s Next.” The introduction of the Creator Summit, in partnership with Dream Con, further celebrated Black creativity as a global economic force. This expansion highlights AFROTECH™’s commitment to not only technology but also its role in serving the community and creating opportunities.
A Decade of Legacy and Future Dreams
As AFROTECH™ celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2026, its legacy is undeniable. It has become a launchpad for careers, startups, and partnerships that shape global industries. The conference has consistently championed equity, innovation, and belonging, proving that technology can be inclusive and culture a catalyst for progress.
The dream continues to grow. AFROTECH™ remains the premier gathering for visionaries who believe in a future of technology built on equity and imagination. As Emmanuel Ajala, a computer science master’s student, noted, the experience offers unparalleled access to industry leaders, “You could be sitting next to a VP or a senior engineer.”
Are you planning to attend AFROTECH™ 2026? Share your excitement and what you hope to gain from the conference in the comments below!
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