Join us for “Beyond the Block: From Code to Capital,” a dynamic event designed to empower the Black community in the Tampa Bay Area with the knowledge and tools to build wealth through technology. It is hosted in conjunction with the Tampa Bay Urban Futures Festival, founded by the Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project, held in November.
This isn’t just a discussion; it’s a strategic roadmap for the future. We’ll explore the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and Digital Currency, showing you how to turn these cutting-edge technologies into real-world opportunities.
Our event features three expert-led panel discussions, a startup showcase, and a focused networking session. You’ll gain practical insights on:
- From Prompts to Profits: Demystifying AI and learning how entrepreneurs and creators can use it to automate tasks, generate ideas, and create new revenue streams.
- Building Your Digital Footprint: Exploring how to sell in the metaverse and monetize virtual goods and services using AR and VR.
- Code to Capital: Using digital currency to secure payments and create a financial history that can help you qualify for essential banking services, loans, and grants.
- Startup Showcase: See firsthand how local startups are leveraging these technologies to innovate and thrive.
Don’t be left behind in the digital economy. Join a community of tech professionals, leaders, and enthusiasts ready to build the future.
Date: November 15, 2025
Time: 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
Location: The Skills Center 5107 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33610
Ready to build the future? Register now.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beyond-the-block-from-code-to-capital-tickets-1681136728209
Event Agenda: Beyond the Block: From Code to Capital
10:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Welcome & Vision Setting (Dr. Wanda Eugene)
10:45 AM – 11:30 AM | Presentation 1: AI & The Creative Economy (Rose Lejiste, Martika Jones?, Ora Tanner)
- Topic: From Prompts to Profits: Leveraging AI for Business & Content Creation
- Description: This panel will demystify Artificial Intelligence, moving beyond the buzzwords to show how entrepreneurs, small business owners, and content creators can use readily available tools to automate tasks, generate ideas, enhance marketing, create new revenue streams, or excel on the job.
11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Panel Discussion 1: Immersive Worlds & Digital Commerce (Derek Watford, Ebony Vaz)
- Topic: Building Your Digital Footprint: Selling in the Metaverse & Beyond
- Description: Explore the practical applications of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in the new digital frontier. Our panelists will share insights on creating virtual storefronts, developing platforms for digital services, and monetizing virtual goods.
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM | Panel Discussion 2: Building a Financial Foundation with Digital Currency (Gilene Janvier, Tarneisha Peters, Tabrisha Ruby)
- Topic: Code to Capital: Securing Your Financial Future
- Description: This session closes the loop, focusing on the critical link between technology and financial empowerment. We will discuss the importance of secure digital payments and how meticulous digital record-keeping is essential for building a solid financial history. Discover how this foundation can help you qualify for banking services, loans, and grants, providing your business with the necessary capital to grow.
1:00 PM – 1:15 PM | Startup Showcase
- Description: Learn how startups in the Tampa Bay area are using these technologies.
1:15 PM – 1:30 PM | Networking & Connecting
For more information, contact Black Innovation Leaders of Florida at (813) 515-0150 or visit blackinnovationfl.org.
