BTE Index

Measuring the Path to Freedom

The Black Tech Ecosystem Index is a data-driven tool that measures the health and vitality of Black Tech Ecosystems in different cities. The index assesses various subsystems, including: K-12 STEM education, Post-secondary education, Workforce development, Tech entrepreneurship and Government support.

The index analyzes data across these areas and identifies strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, guiding policymakers and community leaders in their efforts to build thriving Black Tech Ecosystems. The index uses 57 variables and 200 metrics. It develops a series of scores that measure and rate the extent of disparity. The BTF Research Institute uses the index to guide municipalities, nonprofits, and policymakers to create targeted solutions that address the specific and unique barriers that exist within their communities.

The index looks at the intersection of these subsystems to determine the health status of a city's Black Tech Ecosystem. Racial tech disparities do not exist within a vacuum. The disparities occur at the interpersonal, institutional, and/or structural levels within a city.