In response to community and youth feedback, ISD 318 Community Education (the school district of Grand Rapids) and Smart North are excited to launch the Grand Rapids Tech Hub.‍

‍This initiative aims to create a joyous, safe, inclusive space where youth 12-20 years can hang out, socialize, and engage in project-based activities after school. Recognizing the need for 21st century tech education and careers readiness, the hub will offer exploratory and certification programs in leading technologies such as 3D design, programming, cyber security, AR/VR, AI and more, addressing the significant gaps in digital skills and college readiness identified in Minnesota.

‍The Tech Hub will serve over 4,000 K-12 students in Grand Rapids and Itasca County, where 49% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. By providing holistic support, including access to food, clothing, exercise, transportation assistance, along with social emotional support the hub aims to remove barriers and foster a love for learning. Our goal is to help youth discover new pathways to higher education, careers, and entrepreneurship through increased digital literacy. ‍

‍‍‍Later this year, the Tech Hub will host a new initiative called "The Future is Feminine" whose goal is to bring more women into tech‍oriented training and entry level good tech jobs across industries, while helping them with barriers of childcare, transportation, mentorship etc. ‍

‍‍‍Both the youth and the women's initiatives are aimed at also boosting the local tech talent pipeline in the area.