Cal Hacks proudly presents “this is IT: Inclusivity in Technology,” a three-part workshop and speaker series that brings new viewpoints on increasing diversity in various sectors of entrepreneurship and technology.
As technology advances and products are pushed out everyday to enhance people's lives, it's important to ensure that these creations aid not only the general public, but also underrepresented demographics. Whether it is finding a market fit in venture capitalism, using technology to bring government services to the ones who need them, or designing a product to be accessible for those with disabilities, innovators should always be thinking about how to best produce positive change for all communities and individuals.
We hope you join us for three evenings of inspirational stories and thought-provoking workshops and ultimately leave with new perspectives on how to use technology to challenge the status quo.
Civic Technology
@ The House
Life without government infrastructure means no roads, sewage, and many more essentials that we often take for granted. The government provides an incredible amount to the community, yet in modern days, it struggles to keep up with the growing population as it works with outdated technology that can’t keep up with the public’s issues and demands.
The solution? Civic tech — technology that enables folks to engage and participate with their government through empowering public decision and encouraging public digital volunteerism as well as improving government delivery of service and infrastructure. Improving civic technology is the key to promoting progress for individuals and their communities. Often when the government cannot fulfill our needs quickly and effectively enough, it is up to us to make it work. Join Cal Hacks, Code for America, and Code for Berkeley as we explore how government can work for the people, by the people, in the digital age.
Entrepreneurship
@ The House
Entrepreneurship is about the shared passion for making an impact on the world. This requires not only software engineers and business experts, but designers, artists, writers, social media lovers, and so many other diverse perspectives in order to succeed. If you’re interested in making an impact, already have an idea, co-founded a start-up, or even just curious as to how much entrepreneurs can affect the world, then this event is for you.
Join Cal Hacks for an evening with experienced Berkeley venture capitalists, including FreeVentures, Accel Partners, and Dorm Room Fund, to learn and participate in a workshop about entrepreneurship and diversity.
Inclusive Design
@ The House
Technology and entrepreneurship are fast moving fields, constantly seeking to expand the boundaries of what we can do and how we can do it. Unfortunately, this rapid evolution means that many voices go unheard because products aren’t always accessible for every kind of customer. Emphasizing inclusive design allows innovators to effectively engage all of their potential users and mutually benefit from a more intimate relationship with them.
Join the Cal Hacks team and Karen Nakamura, Robert and Colleen Haas Distinguished Chair of Disability Studies and Professor of Anthropology at UC Berkeley, to hear about inclusive design in industry, why it’s important, and how to build with your users rather than for them.
