Global technology and communications leader Verizon became a crowdfunder sponsor for Urban Tech Connect // Forward taking place September 16 and 17, 2020.
Verizon is collaborating with Plug In South LA to bring city stakeholders, business leaders, and the next generation of local startup founders together. Through this partnership, Verizon will facilitate conversations about what tomorrow looks like for tech-focused entrepreneurs.
Plug In South LA founder Derek Smith says he’s proud to partner with one of the world’s largest communication technology companies. “Verizon supports bold new business ideas in many different effective ways,” he said. “By working together, we’re helping entrepreneurs forge meaningful new connections.”
Urban Tech Connect, the premier tech conference focused on Latinx and African American founders, was moved to the fall. The Plug In South LA team is monitoring CDC recommendations to finalize logistics for the conference. Expect workshops, activation, and learning components aimed at serving founders’ needs, Smith says.
Confirmed speakers include LeaseQuery CEO George Azih, Mahmee CEO Melissa Hanna, SoLo Funds CEO Travis Holoway, Squad CEO Isa Watson, Lisnr CCO Rodney Williams, TechCrunch Editor Jonathan Shieber, Greycroft Senior Associate Brentt Baltimore, Rapper & Entrepreneur Stix, Ying Founder Karla Ballard, VSEDC and South LA Best Buy Teen Tech Center lead tech consultant Cassie Betts, and OPV partner Austin Clements.
Verizon will also be taking part. Last December, the company switched on its speedy 5G network in Los Angeles — one of the select cities to access the wireless technology before 2020. At Urban Tech Connect // Forward, Verizon plans to share details about the work the company is doing in South LA, and how 5G can empower local businesses.
“At Verizon, we’re on a mission to move the world forward together for good,” said Rudy Reyes, West Region vice president and associate general counsel at Verizon. “Verizon is excited to partner with Plug In South LA to make cutting-edge connectivity and technology more accessible, an initiative that will help prepare our communities for the future of work, reduce social disadvantages, and increase economic opportunity for everyone.”