GET Cities

After years of collaborative work toward equity in tech, we have bittersweet news to share about our initiative. The current iteration of GET Cities is coming to a close as we transition this impactful work into the broader community with a focus on sustainable, long-term impact. When we launched GET Cities, powered by SecondMuse Foundation, we had an audacious mission - to increase the power and influence of historically excluded people in tech, with a focus on gender equity. We wanted the industry to truly reflect the diverse lived experiences in our society. Our vision for how to get there was by harnessing collective efforts across cities and sectors to center gender in the conversation, to discover and disseminate best practices, and to use the learnings from on the ground to accelerate national change. With deep collaboration across our ecosystem partners in Chicago, DC, and Miami, GET Cities achieved remarkable milestones. We deployed over $3.2 million into equity-focused programs, hosted 204 events, piloted 37 innovative interventions, facilitated the raising of $22,656,000 by founders across our three cities, and engaged over 3,600 stakeholders. Together, we've laid the groundwork for a more equitable tech future and we are proud of the impact we’ve made. And even though we are sad to say goodbye, we are overflowing with gratitude for the transformative work we achieved together and the vital groundwork we laid. We’re also thrilled to share we will be passing the torch to three of our partners through a Transition to Community. Last Mile Education Fund, Radical Partners, and World Business Chicago will carry forward our mission of fostering gender equity in tech. Transition to community is a proactive and intentional step, fostering resilience within communities and encouraging strong relationships with other ecosystem innovators and funders. We are so proud of the catalytic groundwork we have activated across our cities and networks and for our partners to continue and expand upon the work of building a tech industry that reflects and addresses the needs of all lived experiences. These organizations will build on a portfolio of work piloted here at GET Cities; continue the work of convening the ecosystem and engaging power holders, bring on board some of our team members; and expand a gender lens to their ongoing work to achieve equity in tech. So stay tuned, as we share details on final GET Cities activations and investments over the coming months. #GETTransition

We still have one final week at GET Cities, but as we soon close the doors on the GET Cities channels, our hearts are filled with gratitude. For years, GET Cities has been at the forefront of increasing the power and influence of historically marginalized people in tech, with a strong focus on gender equity. Our vision to harness that power across cities and sectors was realized thanks to the dedication of our committed partners, driving national change. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, we are immensely grateful for the transformative work we accomplished together and the solid foundation we built. We are excited that three of our valued partners— Last Mile Education Fund, Radical Partners, and World Business Chicago—will continue to carry forward our mission through the Transition to Community. These organizations will build on the work piloted by GET Cities: convening the ecosystem, engaging power holders, and integrating a gender lens into their ongoing efforts to achieve equity in tech. Stay connected with our ecosystem partners as they lead the way in expanding the work of convening the ecosystem, engaging power holders, and advancing gender equity in tech.

Joan Marie Godoy, CEO of Radical Partners highlights four essential objectives for the organization's initiatives: empowering leaders with new skills, amplifying their impact, fostering collaboration, and nurturing a profound sense of belonging among all participants. By cultivating a supportive community, Radical Partners is dedicated to creating a meaningful difference for women, transgender, and non-binary individuals. We are grateful for the continued partnership with Radical Partners as they advance the groundbreaking work of GET Cities. Discover more about our transition to a community by reading: https://hubs.ly/Q02M79nL0. #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions"

Highlighting the impact of mHUB in advancing gender equity in technology. As a hub for HardTech startups, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, investors, and industry leaders, mHUB is at the heart of innovation. 🌟 Nestled within the U.S.'s most diversified manufacturing economy, it boasts over 12,000 local manufacturers generating $103 billion annually and employing over 565,000 people. Plus, there's an ecosystem of more than 2,000 HardTech and digital startups surrounding us! Since their launch in 2017, the mHUB community has achieved some incredible milestones: Generated over $1.57B in revenue 💰 Launched more than 1,600 products 🚀 Hired over 5,500 employees 👥 Raised over $1.89B in capital 💵 As we approach the conclusion of GET Cities, stay tuned over the coming weeks to discover more about the amazing partners we've collaborated with throughout the years. #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions"

Meet Tech Elevator one of our committed partners advancing the mission of GET CITIES. As a premier coding bootcamp, Tech Elevator is dedicated to transforming careers through comprehensive software development training. With a robust curriculum that encompasses full-stack technologies, personalized career support, and strong industry connections, Tech Elevator empowers students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the tech industry. Explore how Tech Elevator is shaping the next generation of tech leaders at https://hubs.ly/Q02M79450! #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions"

Celebrating NSBE Professionals | National Society of Black Engineers commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the tech industry. Their pursuit of equality is transforming the technology sector. The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is dedicated to increasing the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, thrive professionally, and make a positive impact in their communities. Discover more about their impactful contributions and support for GET Cities by visiting https://hubs.ly/Q02M6_MG0. #NSBE #STEMLeadership #DiversityInTech

Spotlight on @i.c.stars! This transformative nonprofit is dedicated to empowering underserved young adults through technology and leadership training. Since 1999, i.c.stars has equipped participants with essential tech skills and professional development, paving the way for successful careers in the tech industry. Their intensive 16-week program not only fosters technical expertise but also builds leadership and career readiness. By investing in individuals from low-income communities, i.c.stars is creating a ripple effect of positive change and community impact. Discover how their commitment is making a difference with GET Cities by visiting i.c.stars! #iCStars #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions"

Spotlighting the impactful leadership of the Kaplan Institute in advancing gender equity in technology. Their steadfast commitment to equality is changing the industry. Located in Chicago, a city celebrated for its industry and ingenuity, the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship embodies the spirit of technological innovation. From inventing the zipper and the blood bank to the mobile phone, Chicago has always led the way in tech breakthroughs. At the Kaplan Institute, they believe in fostering not just technological prowess but also leadership that drives positive change. As we near the closing of GET Cities, we are grateful for the many partners who have made a significant impact in the work we love and do. #GETCitiesSpotlight #EqualityInTech

What does it mean to apply a gender lens, and how can organizations benefit from this approach? We sat down with Verizon's Community Engagement Director, Steve Shaw, to explore how TechRise has gained from applying a gender lens within their program from the valuable perpsective of investment. By analyzing and addressing gender-specific needs and perspectives, TechRise has been able to create more equitable and inclusive outcomes, ensuring that their initiatives effectively meet the diverse needs of all participants. Discover how this approach is making a difference! #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions

The Garage at Northwestern University is a premier incubator dedicated to supporting entrepreneurial ventures. With access to expert mentorship, essential resources, and a collaborative workspace, The Garage provides the foundation for turning innovative ideas into successful businesses. Partners like The Garage at Northwestern University play a crucial role in fostering innovation and nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. Learn more about the variety of programs The Garage has to offer students and startups at https://hubs.ly/Q02LW5XK0 #GETCitiesSpotlight #EquityInTech #GETTransition #GETCommunity #EquityChampions