Reconciling Tech: A Hackathon Improving Equity for Indigenous Women 2024

Hybrid Hackathon on February 23 & 24,
Location: SIIT, Saskatoon, SK 

What is the Economic Reconciliation Hackathon?

According to Brookfield Institute for Innovation + Entrepreneurship Report  Who Are Canada's Tech Workers? Indigenous people’s participation in tech occupations in the study was as low as 2.2%, and even fewer were women. We are looking for real-world solutions to increase Indigenous women's participation in tech occupations. Solutions to this complex challenge must be led by the community that is being negatively impacted by the lack of diversity in the tech ecosystem. 

Furthering reconciliation and building a more equitable and inclusive digital society is everyone’s responsibility. However, Calls to Action #92 specifically implores the corporate sector to take action in moving the Reconciliation framework forward. 

A better digital society that is more responsive to Indigenous women’s needs is a win-win for everyone. In order to better address these disparities we are taking action by hosting a one-of-a-kind hackathon event. The hackathon is committed to implementing the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC): Calls to Action 92.

Challenge: How do we successfully increase and sustain the number of Indigenous women working in the tech field? 

Find innovative solutions to address the productivity gap problem between Indigenous and non-Indigenous women in technology.

Hackathon Details  

Individuals or teams will brainstorm and develop innovative solutions to the challenge statement in 24 hours. Individuals and teams will connect with amazing people from different backgrounds, industries and cultures. 

The teams will then come together and find a real-world solution to the challenge statement and pitch it to judges. Teams will be provided with the tools, resources, and a safe space where they can discuss ideas and access the resources to bring them to reality. These tools and resources will include professional development, industry expert panels, mentors, workshops, tech support, sharing circles, and one-on-ones with Elders.

We want to create a culturally appropriate environment where individuals can feel safe, welcomed, supported, respected and empowered. This is a unique and valuable experience to further your commitment to economic reconciliation, and an excellent opportunity to build, diversify, and grow your network.

EVENT
AGENDA

Professional Development Sessions 

The professional development sessions offered at the hackathon will be diverse in themes. The sessions will inform and empower participants in order to build on existing skills as well as learn new ones.

Here are the professional sessions we will be hosting at the hackathon

  • What is Imposter Syndrome? 

  • How to Pitch Confidently Workshop 

  • Pitch Deck Template

  • Cultural Programming

Who Can Participate?  

All those who want a more equitable, diverse and empowering tech ecosystem are welcome to participate. 

  • Indigenous women

  • Indigenous men

  • LGBTQ2S+ 

  • Indigenous allies

  • 18 years old +

  • Post-secondary students 

  • Industry professionals 

  • Entrepreneurs   

  • Tech enthusiasts

  • Underemployed

  • Unemployed

  • Returning to the job force after a pause

  • Re-careering and upskilling 

  • Lived experience in Tech

  • Non-traditional career path in tech

  1. Sponsorship: There are a number of different ways you can sponsor this event. Please see the options here. 

  2. Judge: Judges will be listening, reviewing, and providing feedback on the solution pitches of each team. Judges will then come together to further discuss the pitches and select the winning recipients.  

  3. Mentor: Mentors will be working alongside hackathon participants. They will have a wide variety of specializations that participants will be able to draw from for support.  

  4. Volunteer: Volunteers are the backbone of any successful event. We are looking for volunteers who are eager to interact with participants and ensure that the hackathon runs smoothly.

How can I get involved?

PRIZES

FIRST PLACE

$4000

SECOND PLACE

$2500

THIRD PLACE

$1500

If you have any questions & concerns, please contact Alina.

Alina Perrault, Indigenous Women In Tech Coordinator

Phone: (306) 292 – 4896
Email: alina@ethicaldigital.ca

Contact alina@ethicaldigital.ca to apply for a fee waiver.