New ‘FutureLAND’ conference will promote diversity in tech - cleveland.com

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CLEVELAND, Ohio — A new conference aimed at diversifying tech, arts and culture is coming in Cleveland at the end of October.

FutureLAND was announced in a news release Wednesday morning by its organizers. It’s being supported by the city of Cleveland, the United Black Fund and Jumpstart Inc., and sponsored by MCPc, a Cleveland-based IT company.

The event will run from Oct. 27 to 28, featuring panels, workshops and fireside chats with industry experts. There will be two tech-focused pitch events where participants will compete for more than $100,000 in funding.

The goal is to “transform Cleveland’s innovation and tech ecosystem” by welcoming and supporting people from more diverse backgrounds. According to the announcement, the tech economy is flourishing but equitable access to capital and growth opportunities continues to lag.

“Cleveland has the potential to curve the trend,” said Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb. “We are more than a sports city. We have an emerging tech ecosystem led by a cohort of bright leaders of color. We have the talent, grit, amenities, and passion to make our city a place where tech founders can build and entrepreneurs can thrive.”

Jumpstart will host one of the pitch sessions featuring five tech founders who were finalists in Pitch Cypher competitions. First place will get $25,000, second will get $15,000, third $10,000 and fourth and fifth place $2,500.

The Presidents’ Council will hold a pitch competition for five Black-owned businesses. They’ll pitch to a panel for an opportunity to win prizes ranging from $1,500 to $25,000, according to a JumpStart spokesperson.

FutureLAND’s main event will be held at the Flats East Bank. More information can be found at futurelandcle.com.

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