Join us for Tech Exchange’s 3rd Annual Connected Futures Digital Inclusion Awards Celebration on October 9 in Downtown Oakland. For over 30 years, our community of supporters has helped us bridge the digital divide. This special evening brings us together to honor local champions, look toward the future, and launch our bold Three-Year Strategic Plan built on three transformative pillars: ACCESS • OPPORTUNITY • RESILIENCE.

Live Musical Performance: We are thrilled to welcome Vallejo’s own LaRussell as our marquee performer! An independent artist, entrepreneur, and community builder known for his standout appearance on America’s Got Talent, LaRussell brings his powerful Bay Area sound and community-first spirit to Oakland for an unforgettable live set. We will also have Top Chefs performing!

A Conversation About What Comes Next: The evening features a dynamic panel exploring how emerging technologies and AI impact education, healthcare, and economic mobility. Our discussion focuses on ensuring innovation expands opportunity rather than deepening inequity.

Confirmed Panelists & Speakers:

Assemblymember Anamarie Avila Farias (D-15)
Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-17)
Arturo Juarez, NextGen California Leadership Member
Special video remarks from Congresswoman Lateefah Simon

2026 Honorees: We are proud to recognize three extraordinary champions whose work embodies our core pillars:

Community Change Champion: Hack the Hood (Samia Zuber, Executive Director) — Equipping underrepresented youth with tech skills, entrepreneurship, and career pathways.
Sustainability Champion: SEMI Foundation (Justin Harris & Bia Hamed, Ph.D. ) — Advancing STEM education, workforce development, and sustainable technology.
Community Advocacy Champion: CETF (Sunne Wright McPeak, President & CEO) — Driving statewide policy and partnerships for digital equity and affordability.

Event Details & Tickets

Date: October 9, 2026
Location: Oakstop California Ballroom

Can't make it in person? You can still support the movement by making a direct donation on this page or connecting us with community partners!

Tech Exchange Digital Inclusion Celebration 2026

Tech Exchange Digital Inclusion 2026 Awards is our signature annual fundraiser and celebration honoring the leaders, partnerships, and innovations expanding digital opportunity across the Bay Area.