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A Message from Our Board Chair
I am excited to share that our community-led vision and work have successfully operated for three years! Smart North is making significant progress in providing underserved youth and womxn access to digital tools and skills to thrive in the 21st-century tech economy, as well as crucial support such as warm meals, clothing, childcare, transportation, devices, and hotspots.
I also want to acknowledge the dedication of our community-based Tech Hub teams, Circles of Care, donors, training partners, and program participants who have made this progress possible.
We deeply appreciate your trust and belief in our mission and are excited to continue this journey with all of you in 2025 and beyond!
With immense gratitude,
Sabina Saksena
Co-Founder & Board Chair, Smart North
Our Progress in 2024
- Expanding Access to Technology:
We proudly established our third Tech Hub in Grand Rapids, further expanding our reach alongside our existing locations in South Minneapolis (George Floyd Square) and Deer River/Leech Lake. These hubs serve as crucial centers for digital learning, mentorship, and community-driven innovation.
Explore Our Tech Hubs
- Empowering 1,000+ Youth:
Over 1,000 youth, more than 80% of whom identify as BIPOC and come from low-income backgrounds, have gained access to vital digital skills and educational resources. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide and equip young minds with the knowledge they need to excel in an evolving tech landscape.
Learn More About Smart North
- 20 Learn and Earn Tech Bootcamps:
We successfully hosted 20 bootcamps designed to provide 160+ youth with training in cutting-edge technologies, financial literacy, digital navigation, and leadership development. These programs help young individuals build the confidence and skills necessary for sustainable career growth.
Find a Bootcamp Near You
- The Future is Feminine Initiative:
Through this initiative, we empower womxn with industry-recognized certifications and workplace skills, ensuring they are prepared for high-wage tech careers. By creating a supportive learning environment, we are helping womxn break barriers in the technology industry and achieve economic independence.
Explore Our 'The Future is Feminine' Program
- Next Gen Program for High Schoolers:
Our Next Gen Program provides high school students with industry-recognized certifications that serve as a foundation for careers in technology. By offering early exposure to professional opportunities, we are fostering the next generation of digital leaders and innovators.
Explore Our 'Next Gen' Program
Impact Stories
Hamsa: A Grandmother's Journey into Tech
Hamsa, a grandmother and caretaker, came to a Smart North Tech Hub determined to build new skills and support her family financially. Through The Future is Feminine program, she is gaining hands-on experience in digital navigation and completed an industry certification in digital marketing.
With newfound confidence and mentorship from our team, Hamsa aspires to secure a remote tech job, allowing her to contribute to her household while staying present for her grandchildren. Her journey reflects the transformative power of Smart North’s programs, empowering womxn of all ages to create brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Zyon’s 3-D Printing Business: A Young Entrepreneur's Vision
Zyon, an 11-year-old participant at the Tech Hub, turned their fascination with 3-D printing into a thriving business idea. With support from Smart North’s resources and mentorship, Zyon launched a community 3-D printing service, using flyers and Google Forms to attract clients and customize orders.
They even enlisted fellow youth as "sub-contractors" for tasks like painting and assembly, fostering teamwork and collaboration.Through this initiative, Zyon and their peers gained hands-on experience in business management, teamwork, and client service, while generating income. Zyon keeps part of the profits, reinvesting the rest into Tech Hub materials, blending entrepreneurial ambition with practical technology and business skills.
Looking Ahead
With your support, Smart North will continue to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Together, we can ensure that every under-resourced youth and womxn, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed in the 21st-century economy.
Interested in supporting Smart North? Consider Donating or Getting Involved!
Thank you for reading our 2024 Progress Report,
The Smart North Team.
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