Black Innovation Leaders of Florida

Prosperity Through Technology (St. Pete Edition) Day 1
2025-11-08 09:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Campbell Park Recreation Center, 601 14th St S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Your Guide to Money, Ideas, and Opportunity
Prosperity through Technology is a game-changing, two-day event designed for everyone who wants to improve their life, start a successful business, or find a better job in today’s economy. Forget complicated tech talk—this summit is about real-world tools, clear guidance, and accessible resources that lead to economic growth and stability. Whether you are a senior citizen, a job seeker with zero computer experience, a creative with a business idea, or someone running a long-time business, this event is for you.
You will choose the path that fits your goals:

The Talent Track: This path is for anyone looking to land a great job or transition to a career with higher pay. We start at the very beginning with Basics in Digital Literacy—teaching you how to use computers, the internet, and essential workplace tools without the stress. You will learn simple ways to use AI tools like Gemini and Co-pilot to make your job search easier, and get expert help with your resume and interview skills. We focus on building the confidence and basic knowledge needed to secure high-demand jobs.
The Entrepreneur Track: This path is your direct map to launching, growing, and funding your business idea. You’ll learn how to take a simple concept and turn it into a validated plan, and discover proven strategies for getting your first customers. Most importantly, you will connect with experts to unlock grants, capital, and investment to help your business thrive.

Join us to break down barriers, meet people who can help you, and find the resources available right here in St. Pete to help you secure a brighter financial future. Your journey starts with one decision—and it’s easier than you think.
This event is your roadmap to success, providing the hands-on demos and curated connections you need to start implementing change immediately.
To maximize your hands-on learning, all attendees (Talent and Entrepreneur Tracks) must bring a digital device. Please bring a laptop, a large tablet (e.g., iPad/Surface), or a latest-generation smartphone. This is essential for participating in practical exercises, prompts, and accessing digital tools and resources throughout the two days. If you do not have one, please let us know.
For Entrepreneur Track attendees, having a laptop or tablet is strongly encouraged to follow along with business growth tools and financial planning sessions.
See schedule below. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prosperity-through-technology-st-pete-edition-tickets-1785431917929.

Time
Track
Session
Description
Speaker

9:10 – 10:00 AM
Joint
AI Unlocked: What It Is, How to Use It, and Why It Matters Now
Demystify Artificial Intelligence. This non-technical session will explain the core concepts of AI and immediately show you how to use tools like Gemini or ChatGPT to write better resumes and emails, or generate quick business ideas. Learn the essentials every professional needs to know.
Ora Tanner

10:10 – 10:45 AM
Joint
Finding Your Fit: Tech Roles, Transferable Skills, and the New Workplace
Tech is more than just coding. Learn about high-demand roles like Project Manager, Business Analyst, and Cybersecurity Specialist, and discover how your current, non-tech skills can be your strongest asset for a seamless career transition.
Saleema Bennett

10:50 – 11:50 AM
Joint
Money Talks: Master Your Personal Finances for Professional Freedom
Financial stability is the foundation for career change and entrepreneurship. This expert panel will share actionable strategies for budgeting, building credit, managing debt, and planning for wealth, giving you the confidence to invest in your future.
Broderick Scott (mod), Gilene Janvier & Rolanda McDuffie

12:00 – 12:50 PM
Joint
Lunch & Learn: LinkedIn Blueprint—Optimizing Your Professional Presence
Turn your LinkedIn profile into a networking powerhouse. We’ll show you how to use keywords to attract recruiters and partners, craft a compelling professional narrative, and effectively use LinkedIn’s tools to research companies and opportunities.
Ebony Vaz

1:00 – 2:30 PM
Entrepreneur
The Startup Sprint: Essential Strategies for Launching a New Venture
Learn the critical first steps for turning an idea into a legitimate business. We cover legal structure, branding basics, defining your minimum viable product (MVP), and creating a clear action plan for your first 90 days.
Lloyd Reshard

1:00 – 2:30 PM
Talent
Digital Citizen 101: The Basics of Cloud, Files, and Digital Safety (Part I)
The foundational workshop for non-tech career seekers. You’ll master essential digital skills, including how to use cloud services (like Microsoft Azure) to store and share files, organize your digital workspace, and protect yourself with core cybersecurity practices.
Nyjel Dukes

2:35 – 4:00 PM
Entrepreneur
Idea to Income: Generating and Validating Your Business Concept
Stop guessing and start confirming. This deep dive teaches you how to identify market needs, brainstorm high-potential ideas, and use Lean Canvas principles to test and validate your business concept before you invest time and capital.
Lloyd Reshard

2:35 – 4:00 PM
Talent
Digital Citizen 102: Workplace Tools and Professional Networking (Part II)
This session builds on your foundational skills, focusing on the tools used in modern remote and hybrid work (Slack, Teams, Zoom). Learn how to effectively use digital communication and collaboration apps, and how to use data (like simple spreadsheets) effectively in any role.
Nyjel Dukes

Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prosperity-through-technology-st-pete-edition-tickets-1785431917929.

Math Undercover: Finding Clues of Math in Everyday Life
2025-03-29 14:00 - 17:00 | C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library, 2607 E Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33630, United States
Welcome to Math Undercover: Finding Clues of Math in Everyday Life! Join us at the C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library for a fun and interactive event where we uncover the hidden math all around us.
Awareness: We will hold an exclusive screening of the award-winning film “Counted Out” by Director Vicki Abeles that investigates the math that undergirds our society and the impacts the lack of numeric literacy has on our nation.
Advocacy: After the film, we will hold a Community Math Town Hall where attendees will engage in a facilitated discussion about why so many students don’t see themselves as “math people” and what we can do to change it.
Activities: Concurrent with the film, we will engage middle grades students (6th-8th) and others in hands-on activities designed by subject matter experts to investigate how math is used across various careers and industries.
Other bonuses include: a Math Photo Op Booth for attendees to share on their social media, swag bags, games, and more!
Subject Matter Experts:
Larsha Johnson, CEO of Bits4Bots, LLC- A hardware tech electronics company with a STEM focus. She will be discussing the math behind circuits, electronics and more!
Adrienne Falcone Godsell, The Food Whisperer- A wholistic chef and cooking show host who will share about how math is used in the culinary arts.
Vanel Marc– a middle school educator who has developed gamification tools to help students learn algebra.
Miranda Johnson, Founder of The Mirajo Collective- will introduce how to use financial budgeting tools to buy a home in a fun and engaging activity!

Resiliency: Navigate Business and Tech Talent in a New Political Landscape
2024-11-22 12:00 - 13:30
Join the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida for a powerful and timely discussion on November 22, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm, titled “Resiliency: Navigate Business and Tech Talent in a New Political Landscape.”
In this uncertain political climate, staying informed and adapting to evolving circumstances is crucial. Our expert speakers will dive into:
Decoding Policy Changes

Understanding the implications of new regulations on your business.

Leveraging Government Spending

Identifying opportunities for growth and innovation.

Navigating Economic Shifts

Developing strategies to weather economic storms.

Becoming a Resilient Workforce

Preparing yourself to be hirable tech talent in a competitive market.

Adapting to Emerging Trends

Staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical tips to help your business thrive.
Register TODAY!
#BusinessResilience #TechTalent #GovernmentPolicy

Black Innovation Tour - Orlando
2024-10-12 10:00 - 15:00 | Tech Hub Orlando, 36 W Pine Street, FL, 32801, United States
Join the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida (BILF) in Orlando for the 2024 Innovation Tour Stop. A dynamic event exploring the advancement of AI, intersection with intellectual property, and access to capital for Central Florida businesses.
Hosted at Tech Hub Orlando, this free event will feature engaging discussions and networking opportunities focused on how AI is transforming industries, the critical role of IP protection in this new landscape, and strategies for securing funding to fuel innovation.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or simply curious about the future of technology, this event offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of the modern business world.
Date: October 12, 2024
Location: Tech Hub Orlando, 36 W Pine Street, Orlando, FL 32801
Register Now: https://lu.ma/calendar/cal-rLaGRJQ69vAMcBG
#BlackInnovationTour #Orlando #Innovation #Entrepreneurship

Join the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida (BILF) in Orlando for the 2024 Innovation Tour Stop.
A dynamic event exploring the advancement of AI, intersection with intellectual property, and access to capital for Central Florida businesses.
Hosted at Tech Hub Orlando, this free event will feature engaging discussions and networking opportunities focused on how AI is transforming industries, the critical role of IP protection in this new landscape, and strategies for securing funding to fuel innovation.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or simply curious about the future of technology, this event offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of the modern business world.
Date: October 12, 2024
Location: Tech Hub Orlando, 36 W Pine Street, Orlando, FL 32801
Register Now!
#BlackInnovationTour #Orlando #Innovation #Entrepreneurship
Artificial Intelligence:

BILF Board Member, Rose Lejiste-Moderator
Vincent Hunt – AI and the Decade Ahead
Kamaria Scott- The Future of Work with AI
Ariane Fikki – Head of Partnerships at VR/AR Association (VRARA)

Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights:

BILF Board Member-Servola Frazier, Moderator
Gautham Ubale, USPTO
Caleb Williams, SprainGo
US Copyright Office
The Art of Pitching

BILF Board Member- Ebony Vaz, Moderator
Shawntia Lee, College Thriver
2024 Black Orlando Tech Pitch Competition Winner
Lloyd Reshard, Kukua Institute Accelerator
Access to Capital SBIR/STTR

BILF Board Member Cherrise Wilks, Moderator
Dr. Vernon Myers, Army Contracting Command
Dr. Wanda Eugene, Deep Designs (SBIR winner)
Jack Henkel, Florida High Tech Corridor

Resiliency: Thriving in Political Turbulence
2024-10-05 10:00 - 11:30
Join the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida for a powerful and timely discussion on October 5, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, titled “Resiliency: Thriving in Political Turbulence.”
In today’s challenging and unprecedented political climate, it’s essential to prioritize mental health and develop strategies for navigating the workplace, marketplace, and beyond with resilience and strength.
This event features a panel of three distinguished mental health professionals and a CEO who will share valuable insights and practical strategies for maintaining well-being and thriving amidst political uncertainty.
Following the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with the experts.
Whether you are a professional, entrepreneur, or community leader, this conversation will equip you with tools to build mental fortitude and foster a culture of support and understanding.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with a community committed to thriving in any climate.
Register TODAY at the link below.

IP Launchpad Program - Trademark Basics
2024-09-03 08:30 - 09:30
​IP Launchpad Program
Registration link: https://lu.ma/iplaunchpad
​Fueling Innovation for Black-Owned Businesses in Florida
​The Black Innovation Leaders of Florida (BILF) is proud to announce the launch of the IP Launchpad program, designed to empower Black entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need to protect their intellectual property (IP). BILF recognizes the immense potential for innovation within our communities. The IP Launchpad program bridges this gap and empowers Black entrepreneurs to protect their ideas.
​IP Launchpad Virtual Series
​In collaboration with the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office), BILF will host four weekly virtual sessions beginning on Tuesday, August 13th, and ending with the last session on Tuesday, September 3rd. This series is a fantastic opportunity to learn the fundamentals of trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets for FREE. Each session will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. EST.
​Ongoing Program: 2024-2025
​The IP Launchpad program extends beyond the kickoff event, offering members access to in-person and virtual training sessions throughout 2024-2025. Our network of four Hubs (Organizational Members) will host these sessions across Florida. A special in-person session will take place on October 12th as a part of the BILF Innovation Tour stop in Orlando, FL.
​Access to BILF Self-paced Courses
​BILF is providing access to online self-paced courses for up to 1,000 Florida businesses looking to learn how the patent and trademark process works in the US. These self-paced courses are offered via a grant and will be administered on a platform by one of our technical partners, Patent Hacks.
​Training Completion Benefit
​Florida-based entrepreneurs, who complete the live virtual training sessions or enroll in self-paced courses made available through BILF, may be eligible for further assistance with their trademark or patent application process. BILF has partnered with Patent Hacks, a trusted technical service provider, to offer this valuable benefit. Application assistance for members outside the self-paced courses is subject to grant funding availability and verification of the business’ readiness.
​Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to:

​Gain valuable knowledge about protecting your intellectual property.
​Network with other Black entrepreneurs and innovation leaders in Florida.
​Receive potential assistance with your trademark or patent application.

​The Black community in Florida is brimming with brilliant ideas waiting to be brought to life.
​The IP Launchpad program is here to help turn your innovative concepts into reality.
​Stay tuned for more information:
​Register today for these upcoming events at https://lu.ma/iplaunchpad or contact us at IPLaunch@blackinnovationfl.org to learn more about the IP Launchpad program, the kickoff event, and how to get involved.
​Together, let’s turn your innovative ideas into reality!
​#BlackInnovation #IPLaunchpad #BILF

IP Launchpad Program - Patent Basics
2024-08-27 08:30 - 09:30

IP Launchpad Program - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Resources for Inventors, Innovators, and Entrepreneurs
2024-08-20 08:30 - 09:30
​IP Launchpad Program
Registration link: https://lu.ma/iplaunchpad
Fueling Innovation for Black-Owned Businesses in Florida
​The Black Innovation Leaders of Florida (BILF) is proud to announce the launch of the IP Launchpad program, designed to empower Black entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need to protect their intellectual property (IP). BILF recognizes the immense potential for innovation within our communities. The IP Launchpad program bridges this gap and empowers Black entrepreneurs to protect their ideas.
​IP Launchpad Virtual Series
​In collaboration with the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office), BILF will host four weekly virtual sessions beginning on Tuesday, August 13th, and ending with the last session on Tuesday, September 3rd. This series is a fantastic opportunity to learn the fundamentals of trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets for FREE. Each session will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. EST.
​Ongoing Program: 2024-2025
​The IP Launchpad program extends beyond the kickoff event, offering members access to in-person and virtual training sessions throughout 2024-2025. Our network of four Hubs (Organizational Members) will host these sessions across Florida. A special in-person session will take place on October 12th as a part of the BILF Innovation Tour stop in Orlando, FL.
​Access to BILF Self-paced Courses
​BILF is providing access to online self-paced courses for up to 1,000 Florida businesses looking to learn how the patent and trademark process works in the US. These self-paced courses are offered via a grant and will be administered on a platform by one of our technical partners, Patent Hacks.
​Training Completion Benefit
​Florida-based entrepreneurs, who complete the live virtual training sessions or enroll in self-paced courses made available through BILF, may be eligible for further assistance with their trademark or patent application process. BILF has partnered with Patent Hacks, a trusted technical service provider, to offer this valuable benefit. Application assistance for members outside the self-paced courses is subject to grant funding availability and verification of the business’ readiness.
​Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to:

​Gain valuable knowledge about protecting your intellectual property.
​Network with other Black entrepreneurs and innovation leaders in Florida.
​Receive potential assistance with your trademark or patent application.

​The Black community in Florida is brimming with brilliant ideas waiting to be brought to life.
​The IP Launchpad program is here to help turn your innovative concepts into reality.
​Stay tuned for more information:
​Register today for these upcoming events at https://lu.ma/iplaunchpad or contact us at IPLaunch@blackinnovationfl.org to learn more about the IP Launchpad program, the kickoff event, and how to get involved.
​Together, let’s turn your innovative ideas into reality!
​#BlackInnovation #IPLaunchpad #BILF

IP Launchpad Program - Intellectual Property Fundamentals
2024-08-13 08:30 - 09:30

Black Innovation Leaders of Florida - Innovation Tour - Pensacola [Day 2]
2024-04-20 04:00 - 12:30 | DeVillier’s Square, 321 North De Villiers Street, Pensacola, FL, 32501, United States
The Florida Black Innovation Tour is a groundbreaking series of events that will traverse the vibrant cities of Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Pensacola. This tour stop, hosted by the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida, Kukua Institute, and respective member organizations, aims to bring together like-minded individuals and organizations committed to empowering and uplifting the black community through the power of innovation.
This event is a part of the first annual Black Founder Innovation Summit in Pensacola.

Black Innovation Leaders of Florida - Innovation Tour - Pensacola [Day 1]
2024-04-19 13:00 | Kukua Institute, 300 North Reus Street, Pensacola, FL, 32501, United States
The Florida Black Innovation Tour is a groundbreaking series of events that will traverse the vibrant cities of Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Pensacola. This tour, hosted by the Black Innovation Leaders of Florida, and its respective member organizations, aims to bring together like-minded individuals and organizations committed to empowering and uplifting the black community through the power of innovation.
Join us for networking with entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders from across the state who are focused on fostering connections and partnerships.
This event is a part of the first annual Black Founders’ Innovation Summit hosted by the Kukua Institute.
