It is no secret that there is a severe shortage of blacks in Silicon Valley. Although more and more minorities are graduating from college with degrees in computer science and computer engineering, many are not getting hired -- even though they qualify.
Here are 6 black technology companies that support high-tech job opportunities for black youth:
#1 - Black Girls Code: this non-profit organization established in 2011 offers workshops and after-school programs to young girls of color with the goal to grow the number of black girls seeking careers in technology. The organization teaches young girls in underrepresented communities skills such as computer coding and programming languages.
#2 - New Me, Inc: this company was started in 2011 by Angela Benton, technology expert and entrepreneur. The company teaches entrepreneurs, particularly women and minorities, to identify and use their non-traditional backgrounds to create thriving businesses.
#3 - Teens Exploring Technology: this organization helps young men of color from low-income communities to learn skills that will turn them into technology leaders. The organization was established in 2010 and their programs are open to young men of color from grades 7 to 11.
#4 - NSBE, Jr: this organization helps young black students envision themselves in STEM careers (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) by providing students in grades 6–12 with fun, educational STEM activities and events. They also offer NSBE and corporate-sponsored scholarships to students entering college to major in STEM fields.
#5 - All Star Code: this non-profit organization prepares young men of color for careers in technology fields. Their programs provide mentorship, exposure to the technology industry, and intensive training in computer science. The program is located in New York City and is FREE for all accepted students and includes daily transportation and lunch.
#6 - Yes We Code: the goal of this organization is to help urban youth create promising futures in technology. The Oakland, California organization's goal is to make 100,000 young black men to be the best computer coders in the world. The program focuses on giving technology skills to low-income youth.