Instrument

"411": Ten entrepreneurs will get five minutes to pitch the audience and then three minutes of questions about their idea. After the last pitcher has answered questions from the audience, attendees will then vote for the three (3) winners who will split the prize money equally. When: First pitch will be at 6:00pm with doors opening at 5:30pm and everyone out by 8:00pm Where: Our gracious hosts are the great folks at Instrument. Their amazing HQ is located at the One North development in the heart of inner N/NE Portland on North Williams Ave.

Who: This event is the brainchild of Stephen Green @PDXStepheng, economist, entrepreneur & strong advocate of CHEATING to support small businesses. By day he is the Community Manager for Townsquared where he is engaging area small businesses to support each other and share knowledge. Stephen, along with others in the community have been looking to spread broader narratives about black founders locally. This event wouldn't be possible without the support of some amazing partners; Instrument, Spirit Mountain Community Fund, Silicon Florist, Digital Trends, Built Oregon, ClientJoy, Albina Community Bank, Miller Nash Graham & Dunn LLP, Business For A Better Portland

Why: To connect the region's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem with the increasing number of African-American founders.

Cost: Tickets are $22 with ALL PROCEEDS from ticket sales going directly to the three winners. Bring some extra cash to make sure you leave with some event swag.

Portland’s technology community has much to celebrate; however, when it comes to having an inclusive and diverse industry we must improve. Diversifying our workforce to include all from our community is the right thing to do, and the data shows it benefits us in terms of innovation, team functioning, and bottom line results. We know that greater diversity leads to greater innovation. Tech + Inclusion Community Conversation is an opportunity for companies who have joined the PDC Diversity Pledge and the community to come together. This event is open to those working in the tech sector, to students and prospective tech sector workers, and those interested in the tech industry. The Tech + Inclusion event will help create partnerships that can ultimately lead to hiring and career advancement of women and people of color in Portland’s Tech industry.