MELINDA EPLER: I'm Melinda Epler.
WAYNE SUTTON: I'm Wayne Sutton.
We're the founders of Change Catalyst.
We empower inclusive and sustainable innovation
globally.
MELINDA EPLER: Welcome to this series sponsored
by Women Techmakers, Google's program that
provides visibility, community, and resources
for women in technology.
Together we're helping tech hubs to develop more inclusive
cultures, programs, and spaces.
WAYNE SUTTON: Let's start with external programs.
They are the key driver in developing
a more inclusive tech ecosystem in your city, town, or region.
These programs might include events--
MELINDA EPLER: startup office hours--
WAYNE SUTTON: lunch-and-learns--
MELINDA EPLER: evening classes, training, workshops, and more.
WAYNE SUTTON: We know a thing or two about hosting events,
as our own company, Change Catalyst,
hosts tech inclusion conferences, career fairs,
and startup showcases attracting thousands
of attendees each year.
Events can expand your reach and exposure
to under-represented communities.
Opening your doors to diverse programming
can broaden your networks for internal hiring, membership,
mentors, instructors, et cetera.
MELINDA EPLER: Creating diverse programs takes work, though.
For example, when Wayne and I were developing our first tech
inclusion conference, which is an event focused on solutions
to diversity inclusion, we realized with about 2/3
of the speakers signed up, that we were still
missing some key demographics, specifically Latinos--
not Latinas, just Latinos--
veterans, and people with disabilities.
So we took the time to widen our network, put in the work,
and rounded out the diverse lineup.
WAYNE SUTTON: Diverse people are out there.
We just might not know them.
It takes time to broaden your network.
But through research and asking questions, you'll reach them.
Sometimes it's as easy as asking friends
on social media for diversity and inclusion
experts or diverse speakers.
Also check out some of the resources we listed below.
MELINDA EPLER: Partnering with programs
that focus on diverse community signals
that your organization cares about and values inclusion.
WAYNE SUTTON: Invite diverse organizations
to host their events in your facility
or in partnerships with your organization.
MELINDA EPLER: Then give them the space,
support them as much as you can, and spread
the word about their event to your networks.
WAYNE SUTTON: And remember, it's not
enough to simply host diverse people.
You need to show up, meet them, and let them know you care.
Establish partnerships to help spread
the word of your programs to more diverse groups.
You can exchange exposure on your website
as an incentive for the group.
Pay to put an ad in the newsletter.
Or find another creative way to work together.
If it's an event you share, offer
a promo code for the community and a free ticket to join you.
MELINDA EPLER: To develop a truly inclusive and diverse
event, here are some things to consider.
Topics-- make sure that your event topics
appeal to diverse audiences.
WAYNE SUTTON: Speakers-- speakers
should fully represent the audience
you are trying to reach.
Make sure that they are diverse in terms
of gender, race, ability, age, and other characteristics.
MELINDA EPLER: Outreach-- while promoting your events,
always look for different networking channels that
include under-represented individuals.
WAYNE SUTTON: Timing-- the timing of an event
can make a big difference to people
who are parents, caregivers, currently
working, or commuting.
MELINDA EPLER: Cost-- consider a sliding scale.
Give discount or free codes to new communities.
And even make some events free.
WAYNE SUTTON: Accessibility-- make
sure you ask for accessibility needs and requests ahead
of time on your website and email communication.
MELINDA EPLER: And if someone requests
a sign-language interpreter, live captioning, a guide,
or something else, make sure that person has what
they need to fully participate in your event.
If you need help with this, check out the resources below.
WAYNE SUTTON: Code of conduct--
a code of conduct is an indicator to many people
that you care about creating an inclusive event.
Make sure you post this on your website
and in the physical space and share on stage
at the beginning of events.
MELINDA EPLER: Photos-- nothing says inclusion
like visual representation.
Include diverse photos in the presentation
slides and marketing materials.
And also consider having diverse people look through
your slides, photos, and other marketing
materials to make sure you haven't accidentally included
imagery that might offend someone.
Supply chain diversity can be one
of the most impactful opportunities
to expand your diversity goals.
Look at using services or products founded
by local under-represented entrepreneurs.
WAYNE SUTTON: Consider every vendor
you use, from software vendors to office supplies to food
in your cafe and any subcontractors.
You might consider adding to your hub's values
or formal process to prioritize hiring under-represented people
as vendors.
MELINDA EPLER: Studies show that companies with supplier
diversity programs are more profitable
and promote innovation by introducing new products
and services.
WAYNE SUTTON: Plus, it's good for your local economy
and the community.
MELINDA EPLER: Diversifying your partnerships,
events, and vendors can quickly change your hub's reputation
as a place where diverse people are welcome and belong.
A little extra work up front to diversify your networks
can make a big difference in the makeup of your hub
down the line.
WAYNE SUTTON: For more information
about Women Techmakers, Change Catalyst,
and additional resources, see the links below.
MELINDA EPLER: Share this series with your community.
And let's work together to create inclusive tech hubs
around the world.