Charlotte Community TechDay (Hosted by The City of Charlotte & PCF)
Apr 23 from 10am to 3pm EDT
- Location
- Johnson C. Smith University, 100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216 https://www.jcsu.edu
- Organizer
- Pathway Community Foundation https://www.pathwayoz.com
- Price
- Free
- Duration
- 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Venue
- Johnson C. Smith University STEM Innovation Center https://www.jcsu.edu
- Ages
- All-ages (family-friendly event)
- Dress Code
- Not specified
- Parking
- Parking available at Johnson C. Smith University; CATS bus routes nearby; rideshare recommended
- Food & Drink
- Information not available
- Refund Policy
- Information not available (free event; register via Eventbrite)
About This Event
Dive into the Future: What to Expect at Charlotte Community TechDay
Charlotte Community TechDay transforms technology from abstract concepts into tangible experiences, positioning it as a highlight among Charlotte NC activities and events in Charlotte. Hosted at Johnson C. Smith University’s STEM Innovation Center—a state-of-the-art facility focused on hands-on learning and innovation—this free thing to do in Charlotte NC opens doors at 10:00 AM for a full day of discovery.
Attendees dive into live demos featuring drones soaring through simulated urban environments, immersive VR experiences showcasing smart city infrastructure, and smart city exhibits demonstrating AI-driven solutions for urban challenges like mobility and sustainability. STEM workshops cater to all skill levels, from beginners experimenting with coding to advanced sessions on civic tech, fostering skills that shape tomorrow’s workforce.
The day’s pinnacle is the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase at 1:00 PM, where student teams from nine Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) pitch prototype solutions crafted over three months in collaboration with the City of Charlotte and Henry County, Georgia. These prototypes tackle real civic issues, such as improving public transportation and community connectivity, with teams vying for $10,000 in prizes in a live startup-style competition. Mayor Vi Lyles has praised the event as a platform for “showcasing innovation, making connections, and expanding horizons.”
Benefits abound for attendees: students gain inspiration and networking with mentors; residents witness how tech enhances daily life; entrepreneurs scout collaborations; and leaders explore scalable solutions. As one of the premier family-friendly events in Charlotte, it’s ideal for sparking curiosity in young minds while connecting diverse communities.
The venue, Johnson C. Smith University’s STEM Innovation Center, embodies empowerment in Charlotte’s West Side. This HBCU hub boasts modern labs, collaborative spaces, and a legacy of nurturing Black excellence since 1867, making it a fitting backdrop for forward-thinking technology events in Charlotte NC.
Full Agenda Breakdown
- 10:00 AM: Doors open—explore exhibitor floor, discovery stations, and interactive demos.
- 10:30 AM: First round of workshops (drones, VR, STEM hands-on).
- 11:30 AM: Second round of workshops (smart city tech, startup presentations).
- 1:00 PM: HBCU Smart Cities Showcase—live pitches and competition.
- 3:00 PM: Event closes.
How Charlotte Community TechDay Fits into Charlotte’s Vibrant Scene
As a hub for innovation, Charlotte weaves events like this into its fabric of Charlotte activities and events in Charlotte. It complements the city’s tech ecosystem, echoing initiatives from the Charlotte Department of Transportation and HBCU partnerships. Amid what to do in Charlotte NC options, this free tech showcase rivals cultural festivals and sports, drawing crowds eager for intellectual stimulation. For more [things to do in Charlotte] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/visit-charlotte-nc it pairs seamlessly with Uptown explorations or nearby green spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need-to-Know
Is Charlotte Community TechDay free?
Yes, admission is completely free. Register via Eventbrite to secure your spot and receive updates; it’s a top free thing to do in Charlotte NC with no hidden costs.
What are the main activities at the event?
Activities include live demos (drones, VR), STEM workshops, smart city exhibits, and the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase. These hands-on elements make it a standout among Charlotte NC events April 2026.
When and where is the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase?
It starts at 1:00 PM at Johnson C. Smith University’s STEM Innovation Center. Teams from nine HBCUs compete for $10,000 in prizes on real civic solutions.
Everything You Asked
What is Charlotte Community TechDay?
It’s a free interactive tech event hosted by the City of Charlotte and PCF on April 23, 2026. Featuring demos, workshops, and an HBCU competition, it connects residents with innovations solving city challenges.
Where is the event held?
At Johnson C. Smith University STEM Innovation Center, 100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216. This HBCU venue hosts the exhibitor floor and showcase.
Is the event free?
Yes, it’s free with registration required via Eventbrite. Spots are going fast for this popular free thing to do in Charlotte NC.
What time does Charlotte Community TechDay start and end?
It runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM EDT. Doors open at 10:00 AM for exhibitor exploration.
Who should attend this event?
Students, residents, entrepreneurs, and leaders interested in tech and smart cities. It’s family-friendly and open to all exploring Charlotte NC activities.
What is the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase?
A 1:00 PM competition where nine HBCU teams pitch prototypes for $10,000 prizes. Developed with Charlotte and Henry County for real civic solutions like mobility.
Are there workshops at the event?
Yes, two rounds at 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM cover STEM, drones, VR, and more. Hands-on sessions enhance learning.
How do I register for Charlotte Community TechDay?
Register on Eventbrite at the event URL. Free tickets ensure your spot among Charlotte NC events April 2026.
Can exhibitors participate?
Exhibitor applications closed April 9, 2026, prioritizing mobility tech. Check city sites for future opportunities.
What did Mayor Vi Lyles say about the event?
She called it a platform for innovation, connections, and expanding horizons. It’s Charlotte’s second year hosting the HBCU challenge.
Event Related Questions
What types of technologies will be showcased at the event
The event will showcase live demos of drones, VR, and smart city exhibits, along with STEM workshops and startup-style presentations.[Event Context][Search Summary]
How can I register to be an exhibitor at the TechDay
Exhibitor opportunities closed on April 9, 2026.[Search Summary]
Are there any specific workshops or demos that I shouldn't miss
The HBCU Smart Cities Showcase at 1pm, featuring student teams pitching prototype solutions for civic challenges, and interactive STEM workshops at 10:30am and 11:30am are highlights not to miss.[Event Context][Search Summary]
What are the criteria for the $10,000 prize competition for HBCU students
Information not available.
How can community members participate in the TechDay activities
Community members can participate by registering for free via Eventbrite or the City of Charlotte site and attending workshops, demos, and the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase.[Event Context][Search Summary]
Explore Charlotte
Charlotte, NC, pulses with vibrant energy, and Johnson C. Smith University at 100 Beatties Ford Road sits in the historic Biddleville neighborhood, just minutes from Uptown’s skyline. This technology event in Charlotte NC is easily accessible via I-77 or Beatties Ford Road, with CATS Green Line light rail nearby for eco-friendly transit. Surrounding amenities include local eateries, parks like Revolution Park, and cultural spots—perfect for pairing with other things to do in Charlotte, NC. Check out our [Visit Charlotte, NC guide] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/visit-charlotte-nc for maps and itineraries.
Local Insider Tips
- Arrive early at 10:00 AM to beat crowds and snag prime workshop spots.
- Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the interactive exhibitor floor.
- Bring a notebook—networking with HBCU students and city leaders could spark opportunities.
- Check weather; indoor focus but outdoor drone demos possible.
- Download the Eventbrite app for real-time agenda updates.
Stay in Charlotte
Stay with Trifecta Corporate Housing, a short-term rental Airbnb style and traditional corporate housing accommodations provider in Charlotte, NC. Trifecta’s listings in Charlotte are located in the 2nd Ward, 3rd Ward, and 4th Ward neighborhoods of Uptown Charlotte—convenient for airbnb charlotte nc searches. Calculate distances to the event venue (100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216):
As an Airbnb SuperHost with nearly 7 years of experience and over 7,500 positive reviews, Trifecta is one of the most popular choices for accommodations in Charlotte, NC.
Other Things to Do in Charlotte, NC
Elevate your trip with these Charlotte NC events this weekend or around April 2026, focusing on popular searches for things to do in Charlotte, NC:
– [Charlotte Sports & Ent. Career Expo hosted by the Charlotte Hornets] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/charlotte-sports-ent-career-expo-hosted-by-the-charlotte-hornets for sports networking.
– [Queen City Culture Film Festival] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/queen-city-culture-film-festival celebrating local cinema.
– [Model Performance in Community Risk Reduction Symposium 9] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/model-performance-in-community-risk-reduction-symposium-9 on public safety.
– [2025 Queen City Recruiting Combine] https://www.trifectacorporatehousing.com/2025-queen-city-recruiting-combine for career seekers.
These align with family-friendly events in Charlotte and tech/career themes.
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References
- Eventbrite: Charlotte Community TechDay (Hosted by The City of Charlotte & PCF) Retrieved from https://www.eventbrite.com/e/charlotte-community-techday-hosted-by-the-city-of-charlotte-pcf-tickets-1983022100484
- City of Charlotte: Community TechDay Retrieved from https://www.charlottenc.gov/Events-directory/Community-TechDay
- City of Charlotte: Community TechDay Exhibitor Deadline Retrieved from https://www.charlottenc.gov/Events-directory/Community-TechDay-Exhibitor-Deadline
- K104.7: Charlotte To Host TechDay Event With $10K Prize Competition for HBCU Students Retrieved from https://k1047.com/2026/04/03/charlotte-to-host-techday-event-with-10k-prize-competition-for-hbcu-students
- Pathway Oz: Charlotte’s Community TechDay Retrieved from https://www.pathwayoz.com/community-techday