Innovation Encoded

The digital divide disproportionately impacts low-income and minority communities, limiting access to essential resources, educational opportunities, and future jobs. Globally, over 2.9 billion people lack internet access, hindering their ability to participate in the digital economy.

The lack of equitable access to high-quality tech education and training prohibits people from underrepresented communities from benefiting from the rapid growth of the tech industry,  perpetuating a cycle of poverty and limited economic mobility. With the rise of AI and machine learning, many of the jobs that underrepresented people over-index in (i.e., retail and hospitality) are more likely to be automated, leaving large amounts of the population underemployed or unemployed. 

This need is particularly urgent in a city like Philadelphia, which has the largest poverty rate of any major city in the US. While the majority of residents hold underrepresented identities, only 2.5% of tech employees in Philadelphia are Black, 3.4% are Hispanic, and 29.8% are women. At a state level, the spending gap between wealthy and low-income school districts in Pennsylvania has been among the worst in the nation. And with nearly 30% of Philadelphia residents living below the poverty line, the impact of this spending gap has contributed to only 18% of Philadelphia 8th graders scoring proficient or advanced in math, and 16% scoring proficient or advanced in reading. This leads to the underrepresented students in these under-resourced schools being unable to access high-quality tech education and computer science courses, which could lead them to more economically stable careers in the tech industry.

Coded by Kids tackles the digital divide by offering a comprehensive free tech education journey designed specifically for underserved communities. We focus on making coding accessible and engaging, sparking a passion for computer science and equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive as future tech leaders. We employ a comprehensive, long-term education model that engages learners early - fostering their interest in technology in elementary school all the way through post-secondary opportunities in tech and innovation. Students typically begin their journey in intro- and intermediate level courses, continue to hone their skills via competitions, and finally develop professional experience through our internships - all at no cost to the students and their families.

Here's how it works:

Engaging Curriculum: We utilize a progressive curriculum that breaks down coding concepts into age-appropriate, interactive modules. As they progress, we introduce text-based coding languages like Python or Javascript, gradually building their programming skills.

Project-Based Learning: Coded by Kids emphasizes "learning by doing." Students work on real-world projects throughout the program, from creating basic animations to developing interactive games. This hands-on approach allows them to apply their newfound coding knowledge, fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration.

Accessible Technology: We understand that access to technology can be a barrier. Coded by Kids provides tech education programs and workshops at our headquarters and in community centers and libraries, offering free or low-cost access to computers, laptops, high-speed internet, and relevant software. This eliminates the financial burden and allows students to learn without limitations.

Mentorship and Support: We believe in the power of mentorship. Our programs connect students with tech professionals who serve as role models and provide guidance. 

Technology Used:

Coded by Kids utilizes a variety of tools and techniques to teach participants how to use real text-based languages, depending on the age and skill level of the students. As students progress, we introduce them to popular languages like Python or Javascript, which are widely used in the tech industry.

By combining accessible technology with engaging curriculum and mentorship, Coded by Kids empowers underserved youth to become active participants in the digital world. We equip them with the skills and confidence to not only pursue promising careers in tech but also entrepreneurs and contribute to building a more inclusive and innovative future.

Coded by Kids serves underrepresented youth ages 8 to 24 in the Philadelphia area, with more than two-thirds of the individuals we serve are Black or Latinx and over one-third are female. The median household income in the neighborhoods we serve ranges from $18,557 to $58,784.  While our programs are open to all individuals who wish to participate, more than 70% of the individuals served are low- to moderate-income (LMI). These students come from backgrounds and communities where without the cost-free programming of Coded by Kids, they wouldn’t be able to access tech education. Those who progress through the program are prepared for careers that earn at least double the median salary of all other occupations. CBK is equipping underrepresented youth from low-income communities with the necessary tools and experience, to pursue opportunities in tech and build sustainable wealth. 

Amadin, one of our exceptional students, serves as a shining example of how impactful Coded by Kids can be in the trajectory of a student’s educational and career pathways. Beginning his journey with Coded by Kids in high school, Amadin participated in the 2019 Ctrl+Shift coding competition. His team secured second place with their project "Spacely," a tool that simplifies the process of accessing space-related information. In 2022, Amadin returned to join the Tech & Innovation Internship, a program that not only provides students with real-world work experience but also helps them establish connections and explore the possibilities of tech. Reflecting on his experience, Amadin expressed that the internship was a game-changer for his career. Saying "as a developer, I feel that I have grown in two key areas: development and communication... CBK provided me with a solid foundation, and now it's time for me to flourish." 

Since graduating in 2023 from Penn State University with a degree in Computer Science, Amadin has been working at Coded by Ventures, CBK’s startup studio. At CBV, innovative ideas are brainstormed and developed, with the potential to transform into thriving standalone startups. In this role, Amadin combines his technical skills and entrepreneurial spirit to craft solutions for complex problems, all the while immersing himself in the world of venture capital and startups. When asked how Coded by Kids has helped him towards his goals, Amadin said that CBK has been instrumental to his personal and professional growth: "The organization has not only provided me with invaluable experiences and skills but also instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and purpose," he said. "To the entire CBK community, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support and for illuminating paths that lead to greatness. Your influence has been a cornerstone of my journey, and I am eternally grateful for the doors you have opened for me and many others.”

Coded by Kids’ Founder, Sylvester Mobley, entered the tech industry which he personally found innovative and exciting. But as a young black male, the lack of diversity in the space was glaringly obvious to Sylvester, inspiring the first iteration of Coded by Kids. The early days of the organization consisted of Sylvester mentoring students in his community on Saturday mornings.  Knowledge around the free tech education classes spread quickly, until a handful of students became thousands, learning in dozens of schools and community centers across Philadelphia.

The early curriculum for CBK Classroom was created by volunteers in tech fields who came from underrepresented groups. Since the development of the initial curriculum, we have conducted regular user interviews with students to assess and make program structure/ curriculum modifications.  Interviews with the students’ parents and caregivers have also spurred changes in programming, including program scheduling.

CBK runs on design thinking and agile methodology, where we use quantitative and qualitative data collected from program participants, parents/caregivers, and instructors to inform planning and decision-making in implementing new programs, systems, or processes and for ongoing measurement of operations and achievement of our strategic objectives. Our service operations team is structured to create a feedback loop from service design to delivery and work in sprints to constantly iterate on CBK programs and products. 

At the heart of CBK’s work is our commitment to creating equity in tech and promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. We model our values by having leadership, staff, and board members who are representative of the communities we serve (different ethnicities, gender, ages, and backgrounds) and who offer our students from underrepresented groups the experience of having a role model/ mentor who comes from a similar space as they do. In total, 67% of CBK’s full- and part-time staff identify as BIPOC.

We believe that Coded by Kids is in the growth stage . We are an established non-profit that has been operating in the Philadelphia region for nearly 10 years. To date, we have worked with over 2,000 students

• Established Solution: We've been delivering core programs (CBK Classroom) for an extended period and have served over 1,000 students.

• Consistent Design and Approach: Our programs have a defined curriculum and established delivery methods.

• Growth Potential: We're looking to expand our reach through potential fee-based programs and partnerships.

• Funding: We have a diversified funding strategy with repeat grants and corporate sponsorships, indicating established financial support.

We've made strides, but hurdles remain. Scaling our program to reach every deserving student requires expertise. Solve's 9-month virtual support program is exactly what we need. Their tailored capacity workshops will be a game-changer, helping us refine our approach and connect us with the best minds in educational program scaling. Brand awareness is another hurdle we're ready to jump. Solve's reach and media recognition can put Coded by Kids on the map, attracting new donors and partners who share our vision.

Beyond the financial backing, having in-kind support for software and legal services frees us up to focus on our core mission: empowering young minds.  What we are excited about the most is the impact measurement expertise. Solve can help us build a system to showcase the real difference Coded by Kids is making in Philadelphia. This data-driven approach will be instrumental in securing future partnerships and amplifying our impact.

Our innovation is in our long term approach - engaging students at an early age and then cultivating that interest through post-secondary education. Students in our programs not only develop advanced skills in web development, UI/UX design and product management, but are also provided with professional development and mentorship opportunities that help them curate their career path. Those who progress through the program are prepared for careers that earn at least double the median salary of all other occupations.

Our solution is catalytic because if we are successful in raising cohorts of underrepresented founders and tech leaders, the impact on their ability to build generational wealth and invest in their communities will be exponential. By creating equity in tech and innovation education and promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, we are providing a platform for underrepresented young people to excel and access the financial and social wealth endemic to the highly profitable tech industry. We are leveling the playing field.

Coded by Kids tackles the digital divide by equipping underserved youth with the skills and resources they need to thrive in the digital age. Our program operates on a clear theory of change, with a logical chain of activities leading to positive outcomes for our target population and the broader community.

Building Champions of Tech:

Early Engagement: Coded by Kids recognizes the importance of starting young. We begin working with students at a young age, building them up using a bold talent development model inspired by those used to develop high-performing athletes.

Structured, Multi-Year Program: Our program mirrors successful athletic training models like AAU Basketball. This structured, multi-year approach provides students with supportive training, resources, and skills development as they progress through the program. This ongoing support fosters confidence, mastery, and a love for technology.

Mentorship and Industry Exposure: Similar to how coaches mentor athletes, Coded by Kids connects students with experienced tech professionals. This provides invaluable career guidance, industry insights, and builds a network of support. Project-based learning allows students to apply their knowledge and receive feedback, fostering real-world skills and a growth mindset.

Impact Through a Proven Approach:

This approach translates into measurable results, supported by evidence in three key areas: internal validation, external validation, and external recognition.

Internal Validation:

High Student Satisfaction: Over 80% of students report finding our classes enjoyable and instructors to be exceptional.

Increased Interest: After introductory programs, over 87% of students express strong interest in pursuing web development.

100% Project Completion: Our program fosters dedication and a commitment to excellence, reflected in a 100% project completion rate.

External Validation:

College Success: Coded by Kids graduates gain admission to prestigious computer science programs, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for higher education.

Industry Recognition: Our students are recognized for their skills. Partner companies are developing leadership tracks specifically for Coded by Kids graduates, acknowledging their high level of performance.

Real-World Impact: Coded by Ventures, our student-run design and development team, produces high-quality work. Clients are so impressed that many retain our interns as full-time staff and refer others through word-of-mouth, validating the program's ability to cultivate skilled tech professionals.

Coded by Kids is committed to creating a lasting impact on the tech landscape by empowering underrepresented youth. We measure our success through a dual approach, focusing on both short-term and long-term goals.

Long-Term Vision: A More Equitable Tech Future

Our ultimate goal is to dismantle systemic barriers and cultivate a future where underrepresented individuals are not just present in the tech industry, but are thriving as leaders and innovators. We define success by the number of program graduates who:

1. Hold Leadership Positions: We aim to see a significant increase in the number of Coded by Kids alumni securing leadership roles in tech companies. This demonstrates their ability to climb the career ladder and influence the direction of the industry.

2. Launch Scalable Startups: We envision a future where our program fosters a culture of entrepreneurship. By supporting students who launch successful tech ventures, we contribute to a more diverse and innovative tech ecosystem.

These long-term goals represent a significant shift in the tech landscape, creating a ripple effect that benefits future generations.

Short-Term Benchmarks: Building Confidence and Skills

While we strive for long-term transformation, we also measure our immediate impact through student progress.  Here are the key indicators we use:

• Increased Interest in Tech Education (80% Target): We track student surveys to measure their interest in pursuing tech-related postsecondary education. A significant increase demonstrates our effectiveness in sparking a passion for technology.

• Enhanced Career Aspirations in Tech (75% Target): We assess student interest in tech careers through surveys and focus groups. An upward trend indicates that our program is successfully positioning them for future opportunities in the tech sector.

• Improved Skills and Confidence (90% Target): We utilize pre- and post-program assessments to measure coding skills and confidence levels. A high percentage of students feeling better equipped with the skills they need showcases program effectiveness.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit (50% Target for Advanced Students): We track the percentage of students completing advanced levels who express interest in building startups. This indicates an emerging culture of innovation and self-sufficiency within the program.

These short-term metrics provide valuable feedback on program effectiveness and allow us to refine our approach to maximize long-term impact.

Coded by Kids believes that by equipping underserved youth with the skills, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset they need, we are not just closing the digital divide, but also building a future where underrepresented individuals are leaders and driving forces in the world of technology.

Coded by Kids leverages a powerful combination of web development technologies, educational best practices, and human connection to address the digital divide.

Web Development: Building the Foundation

At its core, Coded by Kids utilizes web development as the foundation for our educational program. This provides students with practical skills that are directly applicable to careers in the tech industry. Here's a breakdown of our curriculum's web development journey:

• Beginner Level: We start with introductory-level instruction in software engineering and web development. Students are introduced to programming languages like HTML and CSS, gaining a foundational understanding of how webpages are structured and styled.

• Intermediate Level: As students progress, we delve deeper into web development concepts. The curriculum focuses on topics like basic front-end frameworks and Javascript, along with continued development of HTML and CSS skills. This equips students with the ability to create more interactive elements and user interfaces.

• Advanced Level: Our most advanced programming courses offer a deep dive into web development. Students master advanced HTML and CSS, tackle intermediate Javascript challenges, and explore basic back-end frameworks. This comprehensive training prepares them for complex projects and potential careers in web development or related fields.

Coded by Ventures: Putting Skills into Action

Students who excel and advance to work in Coded by Ventures gain practical experience by tackling real-world projects. Here, they encounter:

• Intermediate and Advanced Programming Languages and Stacks: Coded by Ventures exposes interns to a wider range of languages and frameworks, including Javascript and the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, and Node.js). This comprehensive approach prepares them for the diverse technical demands of the professional web development world.

• Client Projects: Coded by Ventures works with real clients, giving interns the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to solve practical problems. This experience not only strengthens their technical abilities but also fosters professionalism, communication, and teamwork skills.

• Beyond Technology: The Power of Mentorship

While web development is a core component, Coded by Kids recognizes the importance of human connection.

• Mentorship Network: We connect students with experienced tech professionals who serve as role models. This personalized support system fosters confidence, provides industry insights, and builds a network of support for our students.

• Community Partnerships: Coded by Kids collaborates with libraries, community centers, and local institutions to deliver our program and provide access to technology for underserved youth. This community focus ensures program accessibility and creates a collaborative environment.

Coded by Kids believes that a comprehensive approach, combining web development education, engaging learning methods, a supportive community, and mentorship, is the key to unlocking the potential of underserved youth and empowering them to thrive in the digital age.

9 full-time staff, 3 contractors, 15 part-time staff

10 years

Coded by Kids has recruited a diverse staff and board who offer our students the experience of having role models who come from a similar space as they do. More than 80% of CBK’s staff and board are people of color and live in Philadelphia as active contributors to their local community.

At CBK, we know that our people are a key ingredient to our success and invest deeply in the lifecycle of our team. Our HR team has researched best practices for recruiting and has worked to create high-quality, engaging experiences for applicants.  

CBK takes an ongoing, personalized approach to staff development. In addition to an in-depth annual review, which includes evaluation of oneself, direct reports, supervisors, and peers, CBK staff conduct quarterly performance reviews in relation to short-term OKRs and personal learning/ professional development goals. Funds are allocated in the budget for staff to use an allowance for their personal/ professional quarterly goals, e.g. books, training programs, or conference attendance. Individuals have chosen to utilize this in many different ways. We have had folks who have used it to attend conferences centered around innovative teaching and instruction practices while others have used it to attend a speaking opportunity at a national conference.

Staff also complete weekly updates with their direct supervisor, including a review of the week’s focus, challenges/ roadblocks, and wins, as well as plans and priorities for the upcoming week.  Furthermore, staff complete weekly surveys shared privately with the human resources department for the ability to share any needs or concerns, in addition to a monthly one-on-one check-in with the HR Director. 

We also strive to increase retention by creating an environment that promotes community and rewards performance. We hold quarterly on-site days for staff where we work in teams to increase team buy-in and personal connections. We also reward staff with performance-based bonuses on an annual basis.

Our core customer segments are:

• Underrepresented youth age 8-24 (age range based on program) interested in coding and tech entrepreneurship

• Schools and organizations seeking coding education solutions for their students

We provide value in the following ways: 

For students:

• Develop in-demand coding skills (web development, project building)

• Foster critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities

• Gain exposure to tech careers through competitions and internships

• Network with mentors and industry professionals

• Learn entrepreneurial skills (ideation, prototyping, pitching)

For schools/organizations:

• Equip students with future-proof tech skills

• Address diversity gap in tech fields

• Access engaging, project-based curriculum (CBK Classroom)

Channels

• Website: Primary information hub, program applications, success stories

• Community Outreach: Partnerships with schools and youth organizations

• Social Media: Engagement, event promotion, student work showcases

• Industry Partnerships: Mentorship opportunities for competitions and internships

Customer Relationships

• Program Staff: Instructors, mentors provide guidance and support

• Online Platform: Learning management system for CBK Classroom

• Competitions and Events: Foster student engagement with industry professionals

• Mentorship Program: Dedicated mentors guide interns through the summer program

Revenue Streams

• Grants and Donations: Funding for program development and scholarships

• Corporate Partnerships: Sponsorships for competitions and internships

• Program Earned Revenue: Fee-based programs for partners that have funding dedicated for STEM programming

Key Resources

• Curriculum Developers: Design and maintain program modules

• Technology Platform: Learning management system for CBK Classroom

• Mentorship Network: Industry professionals volunteer their time with students

• Funding: Grants, donations, and partnerships to support programs

• Key Activities

• Curriculum Development: Continuously update and refine program content

• Program Delivery: Conduct CBK Classroom, competitions, and internships

• Mentorship Management: Recruit, train, and connect mentors with students

• Fundraising: Secure grants, donations, and corporate partnerships

• Marketing and Outreach: Build awareness and attract students and partners

Key Partnerships

• Schools and Youth Organizations: Expand program reach and impact

• Tech Companies: Secure mentorship and internship opportunities for students

• Technology Providers: Collaborate on learning platform development

• Funding Institutions: Secure resources to sustain and grow programs

Cost Structure

• Staff Salaries and Benefits: Instructors, program coordinators, mentorship management

• Technology Platform: Maintenance and upgrades of learning management system

• Marketing and Outreach: Event costs, website maintenance

• Facility Costs: Rent for office/classroom

Coded by Kids is committed to long-term financial sustainability to ensure ongoing impact in empowering underrepresented youth through tech education. Our plan incorporates a diversified revenue approach, with a strong focus on maintaining a healthy grant ecosystem alongside exploring earned income strategies.

Current Funding Sources:

1. Grants and Donations: We actively seek grants from foundations and individual donors passionate about promoting diversity in tech. These grants have been instrumental in funding program development, scholarships for underprivileged students, and staff salaries.

2. Corporate Partnerships: We collaborate with tech companies to secure sponsorships for competitions (e.g., Ctrl+Shift) and internships. These partnerships not only provide financial resources but also expose students to industry professionals and potential career paths.

Future Revenue Streams:

• Continued Grant Focus: We'll maintain strong relationships with current and potential grantors, highlighting the measurable impact of our programs on bridging the tech diversity gap.

• Growing opportunities for earned revenue through program partnerships, services and events

• Management fees from our recently launched venture studio will result in income for the non-profit 

Evidence of Success:

• Grant Renewal Rates: A significant portion of our funding comes from repeat grants, demonstrating funders' confidence in our program's effectiveness.

• Increased Corporate Partnerships: We've seen a growing number of tech companies coming on board as sponsors, signifying the value they see in investing in our talent pipeline.

• Student and Program Growth: Since our inception, we've served over 2,000 students. This consistent growth reflects the demand for our programs and their positive impact.