In Minneapolis, several initiatives are dedicated to equipping young people with the technological skills necessary for future success. These programs provide access to cutting-edge tools and foster environments where creativity and innovation can thrive.
Best Buy Teen Tech Center at MIGIZI
Located in South Minneapolis, the Best Buy Teen Tech Center at MIGIZI offers a drop-in, technology-driven space for teens aged 13-18. Participants can engage in hands-on learning across various disciplines, including graphic design, robotics, film production, 3D modeling, music production, and photography. All programs are offered free of charge, aiming to inspire creativity and develop new skills among youth.
Smart North’s Community Tech Hubs
Smart North, a Minnesota-based nonprofit, has established Community Tech Hubs to advance digital equity and transform livability in marginalized communities. These hubs provide tech skills training, mentorship, and career pathways for youth, adults, and small businesses. The Minneapolis Tech Hub, for instance, offers free access to state-of-the-art tools like 3D printers, music production equipment, and digital design software, encouraging curiosity and collaboration among young people.
DigitalTechWorks at Phyllis Wheatley Community Center
The Phyllis Wheatley Community Center’s DigitalTechWorks program focuses on providing digital skills, resources, and opportunities to the North Minneapolis community. One of its notable initiatives is the ManCode Mentoring workshop, an annual event that brings young men together to hear from role models in the tech industry. Topics range from robotics to self-care and social skills, aiming to guide participants toward successful futures in technology.
These initiatives reflect Minneapolis’s commitment to fostering a tech-savvy generation, ensuring that all youth have the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.