Black Tech Saturdays and the Gilbert Family Foundation Ignite Pathways for Black Innovators with $1.25 Million Investment

When we think of multi-billion-dollar organizations, our minds often drift toward skepticism, sometimes even doubt. Detroit, however, finds itself with an ally willing to go beyond the usual corporate handout. The Gilbert Family Foundation, a powerhouse organization, is reshaping what large-scale philanthropy can look like for the city’s Black community, particularly in the realm of technology and entrepreneurship. Detroit holds the largest Black population in the nation, and that presence deserves visibility, support, and investment—something the foundation understands. A key example of this commitment is a $1.25 million grant awarded to Black Tech Saturdays (BTS), a grassroots initiative led by Johnnie and Alexa Turnage. Launched in March 2023, BTS has quickly become a sanctuary for Detroit’s Black tech founders, entrepreneurs, and those curious about the tech industry. More than just an event, Black Tech Saturdays represents a powerful collective space where community, empowerment, and innovation meet. This grant from the Gilbert Family Foundation marks a pivotal step in BTS’s journey, enabling it to sustain and expand its offerings over the next two years. Johnnie Turnage describes this grant as “a powerful milestone.” He emphasizes that this moment is about more than financial support. “This grant goes beyond financial support; it’s...