Innovation
Through Inclusion
We believe untapped genius exists in underserved, underrepresented, and overlooked inner-city communities. Self-taught programmers aren't just builders—they're innovators who see problems differently because they've lived them.
From Underserved to Unstoppable
Traditional tech pipelines overlook the most resourceful problem-solvers: those who taught themselves to code with borrowed laptops, public library internet, and sheer determination. We're building pathways for self-educated developers from inner-city communities to access opportunities, mentorship, and capital that match their talent—not their pedigree.
Why Traditional Paths Exclude Brilliance
The tech industry has a talent problem—not because talent doesn't exist, but because we're looking in the wrong places.
🚫 Gatekeeping by Credentials
Job postings demand CS degrees from elite universities, filtering out self-taught developers who've built production apps, contributed to open source, and solved real-world problems with code.
💰 Access to Capital
Venture capital flows to networks, not ideas. Founders from underrepresented communities receive less than 2% of VC funding—not because their ideas lack merit, but because they lack access to the rooms where deals are made.
🔗 Network Effects
Silicon Valley thrives on referrals and warm introductions. Inner-city developers don't have Stanford roommates who work at FAANG companies, so their resumes die in ATS systems.
📚 Resource Scarcity
While bootcamps cost $15K-$20K and promise job placement, underserved communities face barriers to entry: no savings, unstable housing, family obligations, and lack of mentorship.
Building Bridges, Not Barriers
We're creating infrastructure that connects overlooked talent with opportunities that match their skills.
Skills-Based Learning Platforms
Free, project-based learning paths that teach production-level skills: version control, cloud deployment, API design, database architecture. No lectures—just build real apps that go on your portfolio.
- ✓Curriculum designed by senior engineers from FAANG/unicorn startups
- ✓Peer code reviews and mentorship from experienced developers
- ✓Career services: resume reviews, mock interviews, salary negotiation coaching
Job Placement Network
We partner with companies committed to hiring based on demonstrated ability, not credentials. Our network includes startups, scale-ups, and enterprises looking for hungry, capable developers.
- ✓Direct referrals to hiring managers (skip the ATS black hole)
- ✓Portfolio-based hiring: showcase your GitHub, live projects, and code quality
- ✓Job-readiness support: technical interview prep, system design coaching
Founder Support Program
For self-taught developers building startups, we provide technical guidance, business strategy, and introductions to angel investors and VCs who understand unconventional founders.
- ✓MVP development support: architecture reviews, tech stack recommendations
- ✓Pitch deck coaching and investor intro warm handoffs
- ✓Community of founders who've walked the same path (peer mentorship)
Community Hubs
Physical and virtual spaces where inner-city developers can access high-speed internet, equipment, mentorship, and a community of peers committed to mutual success.
- ✓Co-working spaces with free wifi, monitors, and development tools
- ✓Weekly meetups: code jams, hackathons, technical talks from industry pros
- ✓Safe, dedicated space to learn without distractions or instability
What We've Built
Real products, real platforms, and real problem-solving already in motion.
T.O.O.L.S. Inc.
A reentry platform supporting justice-involved individuals through guided pathways, job readiness, education support, and AI-powered direction.
MackChat
A community messaging platform connecting military members and civilian supporters through secure, structured, real-time communication.
A MackProjekt
The parent innovation lab and digital platform brand behind the products, strategy, engineering execution, and community-facing experiences we build.
IWantMyLawyerPresent
A rights-awareness website built to help people better understand legal representation, accountability, and high-stakes interactions.
What We Stand For
These aren't just words—they're commitments we hold ourselves accountable to.
Skills Over Pedigree
We evaluate developers by what they've built and how they solve problems—not where they went to school or who they know.
Community First
We lift as we climb. Every success story becomes a mentor, investor, or advocate for the next generation of overlooked talent.
Open Access
Knowledge shouldn't be paywalled. Our resources are free, our network is accessible, and our doors are open to anyone willing to put in the work.
Join the Movement
Whether you're a self-taught developer looking for opportunity, a company seeking exceptional talent, or an investor backing unconventional founders—there's a place for you here.