Fostering Greater Inclusion In Tech
For the past few months, ACH have been working in partnership with Up Our Street and SETsquared Bristol on a research project to improve Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) representation amongst tech start-ups in the city.
The research report covers the barriers BAME tech entrepreneurs face in accessing local business support, and has highlighted the need for increased engagement between the tech sector and Bristol’s diverse local business communities.
As a result of the research recommendations SETsquared Bristol are planning to:
- Partner with local community organisations in order to headhunt new talented mentors and experts
- Use community venues to host the popular SETsquared Idea2Pitch event, which develops business ideas into a pitch
- Launch a bursary scheme to subsidise the cost of SETsquared membership for gifted entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds
- Create an inclusive marketing strategy to implement citywide
SETsquared Bristol Centre Director, Monika Radclyffe, said:
“This research was very important to us, but it only marks the beginning of the journey. There is huge untapped potential in the city and we hope that by implementing recommendations from the report we will be able to attract and retain entrepreneurs from BAME backgrounds, as well as equip them with skills for success.”
Abdi Mohamed, Director of ACH, said:
"This research project has given us an opportunity to explore the skills and experience that the BAME community can offer to the high tech industry in Bristol, along with the challenges they face."
To help entrepreneurs from excluded communities in Bristol, ACH have employed an Entrepreneurship Facilitator, who will be trained by ourselves, Barton Hill Settlement, Engine Shed, and SETsquared Bristol. Lydia starts on 10th September and you will be able to read more about her in our October newsletter.
If you would like to find out more about collaborating with us on a research piece visit https://www.ach.org.uk/policy-advice-research
