Partner profile_
The Hidden Genius Project
The Hidden Genius Project trains and mentors Black male youth in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills to transform their lives and communities.
Founded in Oakland in 2012 to address the underemployment of Black men and the saturation of tech jobs in the area, the Hidden Genius Project has grown to nine sites nationwide. The Hidden Genius Project’s model connects young Black males with the skills, mentors, and experiences that they need to become innovators and entrepreneurs in a digital, global economy.
“The Hidden Genius Project focuses on young Black males, creating a space where I feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow. Through tech training, personal development, and deep mentorship, it has pushed me to become the best version of myself.”
Caleb Harris
Hidden Genius Project Chicago Cohort
Collective impact
2025
With the support of the Akamai Foundation, Hidden Genius Project participants took part in dynamic cybersecurity and software development programs to expand their idea of what a career in tech might look like.
In the summer of 2023, a Hidden Genius Project student named Averill had an idea. Headphones, he thought, weren’t designed for neuroexpansive people like him who might want to wear them all day due to sound sensitivity. The Alumni Youth Educator teaching the session, James G., encouraged Averill to go for it! Why not make the headphones you would want? Two years later, James received an email from Averill with a link to the headphones! With the support of Hidden Genius Project programs that the Akamai Foundation funds, Averill had designed, prototyped, and begun selling a more access-aware form of headphones. James said “I’m proud of this brother and the org’s push to better support neurodivergent learners. Thank you all for fighting this good fight and remaining Genius Centric!”
In the summer of 2023, a Hidden Genius Project student named Averill had an idea. Headphones, he thought, weren’t designed for neuroexpansive people like him who might want to wear them all day due to sound sensitivity. The Alumni Youth Educator teaching the session, James G., encouraged Averill to go for it! Why not make the headphones you would want? Two years later, James received an email from Averill with a link to the headphones! With the support of Hidden Genius Project programs that the Akamai Foundation funds, Averill had designed, prototyped, and begun selling a more access-aware form of headphones. James said “I’m proud of this brother and the org’s push to better support neurodivergent learners. Thank you all for fighting this good fight and remaining Genius Centric!”
2021
In response to COVID-19, the organization pivoted to virtual coaching and training, continuing the amazing work of its Immersion Program and Catalyst workshops after receiving its second grant from the Foundation.
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Supporting STEM education and empowering the next generation of tech innovators.