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Smart North: A Safe Haven
In a city where many young people face daily challenges—violence, poverty, and limited opportunity—Smart North stands as a vital safe haven. More than just a tech education program, Smart North provides a space where youth can feel protected, valued, and empowered. By centering equity and inclusion, the program offers a safe, nurturing environment for all who visit. A place where curiosity is nurtured, talents are discovered, and futures are built.
Discovery Labs: Learn Fast, Grow Big
We’re also excited to announce the expansion of our Discovery Labs—short, paid programs that introduce youth to emerging tech with guidance from industry experts. Each lab lasts about a month and focuses on building both technical and foundational skills.
In Spring 2025, youth explored:
- 3D Printing:
Participants used Adobe and Tinker Cad to create 3D printed molds for resin
pieces for MN Timberwolves players Naz Reid and Jaylen Clark.
- Drone Piloting:
Youth learned all the rules, regulations, different career avenues and even got
to learn how to fly a drone.
- Graphic Design:
Particioants Adobe Suite to create Smart North posters.
Beyond learning how to fly a drone or design a brand logo, our Discovery Labs incorporate key elements like leadership, design thinking, digital navigation, and financial literacy—because building tech skills is just one part of building future leaders.
Stay tuned—new Discovery Labs are launching this fall!
Honoring the Past to Inspire the Future
To celebrate Juneteenth this year, Smart North youth visited Paisley Park, the legendary home and creative sanctuary of Prince. Touring the museum was more than a fun field trip—it was a moment of cultural reflection and empowerment. Prince’s story as a groundbreaking Black artist and innovator resonated deeply with our youth. It reminded them that creative brilliance, technological mastery, and entrepreneurial spirit are part of their legacy, too.
Fun, Food, and Community
Smart North is more than tech—it’s community. This summer, our youth have been tending to our community garden, growing green beans, cucumbers, carrots, beets, herbs, and more. It’s a place of peace, collaboration, and care, and a powerful reminder of what happens when you nurture something over time.
We also believe in celebrating hard work and building relationships, which is why upcoming events include a Twins Game vs. the Boston Red Sox and a trip to Valleyfair—because sometimes, the best way to recharge is to have a little fun together.
Fall Launch: Next Gen Tech Career Pathways
Looking ahead, we’re gearing up to launch the Next Gen Tech Career Pathways Program, a 20-week, paid opportunity for youth aged 16 and up. This isn’t your average tech training—it’s a comprehensive experience that equips participants with industry-recognized certifications, real-world tech training, and a toolbox of life-changing skills.
Youth will dive deep into:
- Technology training tailored to today's job market with an industry expert
- Advanced financial literacy to build long-term wealth
- Digital navigation to confidently engage in the digital world
- Workforce readiness including communication, professionalism, and problem-solving
Smart North is committed to eliminating barriers. That’s why we offer support services like:
- Free devices and internet hotspots
- Meals during programming
- Childcare reimbursement
- Transportation funds
The program culminates in a paid internship, giving participants the chance to apply their new skills in a real-world environment—something we know can be life-changing.
At Smart North Tech Hub, we're not just preparing youth for jobs—we’re preparing them for ownership, leadership, and innovation in the tech-driven world of tomorrow. We believe that with the right tools, support, and opportunities, every young person can shape the future.
Stay connected with us for more updates, and consider supporting our mission to ensureall youth—regardless of zip code—have the chance to thrive in tech.
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