YSYS 2023
Connecting underrepresented talent to opportunities in tech.
As the leading diverse startup community in the UK, we believe that the tech industry should reflect the population at large. Whether it’s starting up or skilling up we aim to support 100,000 individuals from underrepresented groups with access to opportunities in the tech industry by 2023.
Why Does It Matter
The tech workforce more broadly is made up of 81% men - only 17% of startups are founded by women - the BAME pay gap is over £3.2B - Less than 0.2% of investment goes to black female founders. All of this is having a negative impact on the growth of our economy.
These statistics highlight the huge problem that exists in the tech industry. We want to make a difference by giving a voice to those who are underrepresented and unheard:
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Support founders from underrepresented groups launch startups and raise investment
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Support underrepresented groups develop their careers
YSYS was founded on the understanding that investing in diversity leads to economic growth and stronger communities. Over the past two years at YSYS we have provided access to opportunities for a diverse community of
10,000 talented individuals in the UK.
We've worked with JPMorgan, Financial Times, Linkedin and more to reach this goal and have been featured widely from Forbes to The Evening Standard. Moving into 2020, we've designed two initiatives: TalentDoor and FoundersDoor, which support entrepreneurs and emerging leaders from underrepresented groups.
TalentDoor
Career Office Hours
1:1 support on CV building, coding tests, networking, and interviews, recruitment processes, career progression and more
Career Accelerator Programme
A career programme for mid-level talent looking to progress within their current organisation
Recruitment Insight Days
Industry events for underrepresented talent to gain insight into inclusive organisations looking to connect with diverse talent
FoundersDoor
Startup Office Hours
1:1 support for startup founders on their pitch decks, fundraising journey and business strategy
Preaccelerator Programme
A six-week programme for the under 25's, designed to support young people launch startups
Industry Insight Days
A series of panel talks and fireside chats from inspirational founders from diverse backgrounds
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Partners
Commitment to diversity and inclusion in tech requires not only good intentions but action - we need your help to transform the face of the industry. We're looking for Partners and Ambassadors who share the same mission as we do, which is to connect underrepresented communities to opportunities in tech. This support will allow us to expand our initiatives and create 100,000 stories, with real change and impact.
Ambassador
Join us a Partner and help us support 100,000 individuals from underrepresented communities develop the skills and confidence to launch startups and develop their careers.
Learn more below.
Interested in becoming a Partner in the future. Why not become an Ambassador. We welcome Ambassadors who are passionate about diversity and can introduce us to prospective Partners.
Sounds like you?
Meet our Ambassadors
Check Warner
Investor and Founder of Diversity VC
Recognised by Tech Nation as The 50 Inspiring Black Voices in UK Tech
Recognised by FT as The UK's Top 100 Black and Minority Ethnic Leaders in Technology
Recognised by the Dots as Top 200 Women Redefining the Creative Industry
Winner of We Are The City Tech Women 50 Award
Our Impact In Numbers
£10M
Raised by startup founders in our community
93%
Increase in interviews and workplace confidence
10,000+
Supported across the UK with access to tech opportunities