Apple donated $100 million to the Racial Equity and Justice Initiative (REJI) last June. Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice-president of environment, policy, and social initiatives is leading the initiative. Apple today shared some of its work as part the initiative. Read the article about Apple 100m blackdillettechcrunch.
REJI’s newest initiatives will be launched with partners from a wide range of industries and backgrounds, including students, teachers, entrepreneurs and community organizers. Together, we’ll work to empower communities that have suffered the worst of discrimination and racism for too long. “We are honored to bring this vision to fruition and to live up to the Apple values of equity, inclusion and fairness,” said Tim Cook, Apple CEO.
The company will donate $25 million to the Propel Centre, which is an innovation and learning center for historically black colleges and universities. It will be both a virtual platform as well as a physical campus within the Atlanta University Center. Apple has shared some renderings of the new building, including these images.
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Different educational tracks will be available for students, including those in artificial intelligence, agriculture technologies, social justice and entertainment. They can also choose to study app development, augmented real, design and creativity, and entrepreneurship. Apple is not only making a financial investment, but employees will also help to develop curricula. Mentorship will also be provided. Students will have the opportunity to intern.
The company will also be opening an Apple Developer Academy in downtown Detroit that focuses on young Black entrepreneurs. This collaboration is with Michigan State University. This course will be available to all Detroit learners and teach valuable skills for creators, entrepreneurs, and coders.
There will be 2 programs. An initial 30-day program will teach you more about the app economy and help you find your way in the industry. If you want to dig deeper, there is a 10- to 12-month intensive program. These two programs are designed to help Apple reach 1,000 students each year.
The third effort focuses on investing opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs. Harlem Capital, a New York-based VC firm, will make $10 million in Apple’s investment. Harlem Capital will continue to collaborate with Apple.
Apple also invested $25 million in Siebert Williams Shank’s Clear Vision Impact Fund. Apple will also make a donation to The King Center.
Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative, as you can see is an ongoing effort that requires constant evaluation of new opportunities. Apple is not just looking to provide money for everyone. Each opportunity is evaluated individually in order to determine the best partnership.