The 43North Foundation is proud to support TechBuffalo as part of our talent development pillar. The innovative program the TechBuffalo team is putting in place will make a meaningful difference to Western New Yorkers, from elementary school students all the way to emerging college talent.
This summer, that great work got a national bullhorn when Microsoft, a longtime TechBuffalo partner, created a visible marketing activation around that work.
That included the Microsoft landing page "Skilling up from K-Gray," which served as a lengthy highlight of the amazing things happening in Buffalo. Microsoft president Brad Smith then amplified the message across social media platforms.
Check out the following writeup from the TechBuffalo team celebrating the moment...
One of the world’s largest companies is shining a light on the growing opportunities in Buffalo’s emerging tech scene.
Microsoft on Thursday launched a feature about TechBuffalo, highlighting the nonprofit’s “K-to-gray" approach to opening tech career opportunities for multiple generations of Western New Yorkers. The feature was published on Microsoft’s global platforms and focuses on Family Code Nights, a successful hands-on learning program for adults and children.
“Seeing this story told by Microsoft is a proud moment for our entire organization and community,” says Jeffrey Botteron, president and CEO of TechBuffalo. “The magnitude of this spotlight is not lost on us – it’s a game-changing opportunity for Buffalo and a powerful validation of the collaborative work being done here.”
Family Code Nights use Minecraft Education to engage community members of all ages with tech education. The program is designed to eliminate barriers that often limit access to learning opportunities. For example, adults and children participate in Family Code Nights side-by-side, easing childcare needs for those who want to participate.
Family Code Nights began as a 15-person pilot supported by Microsoft. It has now reached more than 500 participants across 18 sessions. The program’s growth has been bolstered by M&T Bank’s ongoing support, including vital equipment and volunteers.
To accelerate that success, TechBuffalo recently launched Innovation Fellowships. This program, supported by the 43North Foundation, will equip dozens of Western New York teachers with tools and training to bring tech learning into classrooms and after-school clubs. Beginning next school year, Innovation Fellows will also host Family Code Nights, which will continue to be supported by Microsoft. The first cohort has drawn applicants from across 40 Western New York school districts.
Next June, students from across the region will compete in the first-ever Minecraft Global Build Challenge. Top participants will be invited to attend summer bootcamps that will deepen their skills alongside like-minded peers.
Microsoft also highlighted TechBuffalo’s annual PowerUpTech internship experience. PowerUpTech connects talented college students with immersive workshops, networking events and professional development opportunities designed to foster a stronger connection with Buffalo’s vibrant tech community. The program is in its third year.
The feature published by Microsoft this week is available on the company’s Microsoft Unlocked platform (click here to read and watch).
“This recognition is a testament to genuine partnership, and we are so grateful for Microsoft’s commitment to telling this story with such care and authenticity,” Botteron said.
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