In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and entrepreneurship, few figures stand out as prominently as Amanda Spann. An American marketing consultant and app entrepreneur, Spann has dedicated her career to creating tech businesses that support and engage with the Black tech community. Her innovative approach and commitment to inclusivity have positioned her as a leading voice in the industry.
Early Life and Education
Amanda Spann’s journey began with a strong academic foundation. She is a graduate of Florida State University and Georgetown University, where she honed her skills in marketing and business strategy. These formative years laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in the tech world.
Pioneering Initiatives
Spann co-founded Blerdology, initially known as Black Girls Hack, a social platform aimed at uniting the Black tech community. Blerdology encourages engagement through events like hackathons, with the first held in Atlanta, Georgia, in November 2012, attracting fifty Black tech enthusiasts to create mobile apps.
In addition to Blerdology, Spann co-founded TipHub, a platform designed for entrepreneurs in the African diaspora. Established in 2014, TipHub serves as a community for sharing ideas and innovations, empowering its members to collaborate and succeed in their ventures. The platform hosts an annual US-based residency program called Diaspora Demo Day, providing mentorship and support for start-up businesses.
Innovative Ventures
Spann’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to create Happii, an initiative that offers young entrepreneurs accessible tools and support to start and grow their businesses effectively. Happii encompasses various business verticals, including products like TipOff App, CultureCrush App, and DubbleTap.com, along with online coaching and e-learning resources.
She is also known for her involvement with AfriDate, a dating app specifically designed for African American singles, connecting users through shared ethnicity and nationality.
Empowering the Next Generation
Recognizing the importance of education and mentorship, Spann has been instrumental in developing an App Accelerator program in collaboration with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), such as Clark Atlanta University. This 15-week program, supported by PNC Bank, is designed for non-technical individuals, guiding them from idea conception to app development. The initiative aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the HBCU community, enhancing access to technology and business development opportunities for underrepresented founders.
A Vision for the Future
Amanda Spann’s work exemplifies the transformative power of technology when combined with a commitment to community and inclusivity. Her initiatives not only provide platforms for Black entrepreneurs to thrive but also inspire a new generation to pursue careers in tech and business. As she continues to break barriers and pave the way for others, Spann remains a beacon of innovation and empowerment in the tech industry.
In a world where representation and access are crucial, Amanda Spann’s contributions are shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future for technology and entrepreneurship.
