Ford Foundation Earmarks $1.5M To Establish A Public Interest Tech Institute At A HBCU
The Ford Foundation is committing more than $20 million to enhance the field of public interest technology.
This initiative includes up to $1.5 million specifically earmarked for the establishment of a pioneering public interest technology institute at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
Advancing Technology for Public Good
The invesment was announced as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to advance a diverse and inclusive tech ecosystem at an event by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).
As well as celebratinh the vital role of government technologists, the event spotlighted initiatives aimed at building a technology landscape that benefits all Americans.
The Ford Foundation’s initiative focuses on creating education and career pathways that ensure government access to diverse, expert, mission-oriented tech talent.
Boosting the Black tech ecosystem
The foundation’s commitment includes multiple grants to bolster local Black tech ecosystems and tech talent, such as a $250,000 grant to #BlackTechFutures.
This funding aims to build a national network of HBCUs, city-based researchers, practitioners, and community institutions, reinforcing the pipeline of Black tech professionals.
The establishment of the public interest technology institute at an HBCU will provide a unique platform for addressing ethical, legal, community, and societal considerations in technology development.
By embedding these considerations into the lifecycle of technology creation, the institute aims to ensure that emerging technologies benefit all sectors of society, particularly underrepresented communities.
