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During North to Shore Festival‘s Newark stop, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and AfroTech are partnering on a major innovation event focused on supporting the Black community in the innovation and tech sectors.

AfroTech Executive 2024 takes place June 28 at 3 p.m. at Prudential Tower in Newark.

Organizers say the event will bring together corporate executives, founders, entrepreneurs and investors for an afternoon of panel discussions, networking and more.

AfroTech Executive details include:

• Keynote speaker Angela Rye, award-winning host, social justice advocate, lawyer, commentator and entrepreneur
• Discussion topics, such as tech innovation, financial literacy and responsibility, and general wealth creation
• Panels exploring:
  • The diverse innovation economies of New Jersey and the funding opportunities driving them
  • Practical AI applications to streamline workflows, reduce biases and promote inclusivity
• A fireside chat exploring the importance of providing opportunities and access to fueling an innovative landscape

“We are thrilled to partner with AfroTech, which has been dedicated to uplifting the Black community in the tech and innovation sectors,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “This event will bring together state and national figures for in-depth conversations focused on growing the innovation economy – and advancements in technology amidst the excitement of the North to Shore Festival.”

John Harmon Sr., founder, president and CEO, African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, credited the Murphy administration for responding to AACCNJ’s request to bring AfroTech to the Garden State.

“This is an opportunity to showcase technology, innovation, and entrepreneurialism at the highest level and there is no better person to lead this presentation than Founder Aaron Samuels,” said Harmon. “Lastly, there is always an opportunity to have a thought-provoking discussion on issues that matter to individuals, businesses, and communities that have not had access to the transformational components of society – and this too will be a part of AfroTech.”

“This incredible event will bring prominent voices together in Newark to discuss ways we can continue breaking down barriers for the Black community and ensure they can reap the benefits of New Jersey’s growing innovation economy,” said Michelle Bodden, chief diversity & inclusion officer, NJEDA.

“This is truly a must-attend event,” Harmon stressed.

More information on the event is available here.

Just stopping by:

In a surprise appearance, “The Daily Show” host Jon Stewart and his band performed a 30-minute set at Asbury Park Brewery, which was participating in a music and art crawl that’s a part of the North to Shore festival. Click here to see Stewart on the drums.