Black Orlando Tech Evolves Into Building Our Tech, Marking a New Chapter in Workforce and Entrepreneurship Impact

Jan 14

Orlando, FL — Jan. 14, 2026 — As it approaches its 10-year anniversary, Black Orlando Tech announced Wednesday that it will officially operate under a new name: Building Our Tech. The change reflects the organization’s growth and better aligns with its expanded focus on workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and career mobility.

Founded in Orlando, the organization began by increasing access to technology education and opportunities. Over time, its work expanded to include tech workforce training, startup and small business support, career navigation, and ecosystem-building initiatives designed to drive long-term economic opportunity.

“What began as a single conversation has grown into a generational movement shaping how community and opportunity show up in tech,” said Joshua Walker, co-founder and board co-chair. “Ten years in, BOT is still designing the future we believe everyone deserves. By investing in people’s technical acumen, we knew we could unlock opportunity, transform careers, and change lives.”

“Building Our Tech reflects what we’ve been doing all along—building skills, building businesses, and building pathways to opportunity,” said Safia Porter, executive director. “The new name allows us to clearly communicate who we are today while staying rooted in the values that shaped the organization from the beginning.”

The name change does not affect the organization’s mission, leadership, programs, or partnerships. All initiatives will continue without disruption.

“I can still remember riding with Josh to speak with aspiring tech professionals and entrepreneurs, talking about what felt like big goals at the time,” said Mike Felix, co-founder and board co-chair. “It’s powerful to see those goals realized through the work of our team and the collaboration of the community.”

Over the past decade, the organization has engaged more than 6,000 participants, trained more than 90 founders, developed 300 tech professionals, delivered more than 112 technical workshops, secured over $1.3 million in funding, and built more than 30 regional partnerships.

The rebrand positions Building Our Tech for continued growth beyond Central Florida while remaining grounded in the community where it was founded. A broader brand rollout will take place in the coming weeks.

About Building Our Tech

Building Our Tech is a nonprofit organization accelerating economic mobility through tech workforce training, entrepreneurship support, and career readiness. Founded in Orlando, Florida, the organization creates clear, practical pathways for individuals to learn skills, build businesses, and grow sustainable careers in today’s digital economy.