Timeline: The Yard @

Learn about AfroTech's first official presence, its expansion, and goals for the future.

AfroTech Historical Timeline

Afro Tech team setting up their conference booth, laying issues of Howard Magazine on the table

2023 Origins

  • · Idea first championed by HU’s Office of Communications.
  • · Howard hosted a panel and affiliate events (with Microsoft sponsorship + community partners JQ Lifestyles, local venues).
  • · Early vision: position HU as a thought leader; expand access for students; connect alumni; strengthen partnerships. 
Afro Tech team taking a moment to chat and connect in a lively conference hall

2024 First Official Presence

  • · MOU with Blavity established The Yard @ AfroTech as the first official HBCU-branded space in the Expo Hall.
  • · Roll Call Initiative launched with 500+ engaged, 291 submissions and 207 opted-in for follow-up.
  • · 30+ organizations expressed partnership interest.
  • · Positive recognition from attendees: students, professionals, and alumni celebrated HU’s leadership and student representation. 
People walking beneath a large AFROTECH sign outside at night

2025 Expansion & Formalization

  • · Howard elevated from “participant” to Major Partner Sponsor with Blavity.
  • · 3-year Collaboration Agreement signed (2025–27) securing HU as curator of The Yard @ AfroTech.
  • · Enhanced presence:
    •  - Expo Hall activation (The Yard @ AfroTech)
    •  - AfroTech U Stage workshop slot
    •  - Co-hosted HBCU Alumni Reception
    •  - Pre-conference virtual prep for students
    •  - Student tickets, scholarships, and VIP access for HU delegation. 

Goals

Presenters speaking to a large Afro Tech crowd on stage, with company booths in the background

Refine Flagship Activation

Refine and strengthen the central cultural and professional anchor at AfroTech in its second year.

Afro Tech conference participants seated and talking together

Strengthen Strategic Relationships

Deepen and expand long-term connections across audiences.

Howard Bison stuffie on a chair at Afro Tech

Showcase HBCU Investment

Case demonstrate the value and impact of investing in HBCUs.

Afro Tech conference stage featuring 'U ARE THE NEW ERA' poster and a screen featuring special programming

Deliver High-Impact, Measurable Programming

Provide engaging, visible, and data-driven experiences.

Afro Tech Howard team standing and smiling in front of the U ARE THE NEW ERA sign

Elevate Howard Thought Leadership Position

Howard as a leading voice in research and innovation.

Howard Afro Tech booth with the clock tower in the background as conference attendees network

Strengthen Institutional Integration

Embed AfroTech outcomes into university-wide strategy and learning.

2026 – Coming Soon: The Yard @ Initiative 

  • Building on AfroTech’s success, Howard will begin extending The Yard @ into other major innovation events. 
  • Goal: expand HBCU presence globally, foster new partnerships, and deepen Howard’s leadership as a connector between HBCUs, tech and commerce.