T H E C I T Y O F N E W Y O R K

O F F I C E O F T H E M A Y O R

N E W Y O R K , N Y 1 0 0 0 7

September 7, 2016

Dear Friends:

I am delighted to join Startup52 in welcoming everyone to its #WeColorTech Demo Day.

New York has always been a global hub of innovation, and we are the proud home to a

thriving startup scene. Founded in 2015 by Chike Ukaegbu, the StartUp52X Accelerator program

strives to advance diversity in the technology sector by providing professional guidance and

experienced mentors to founders of all ages, backgrounds, and genders, working to ensure that

women, veterans, people of color, immigrants, persons with disabilities, and members of the

LGBTQ community are better represented in this critical industry. Today’s event will showcase

the 18 startups of the organization’s second cohort, created by an innovative group of founders

from six countries and seven states, many of whom have overcome tremendous personal

adversity to participate in this program. As you gather to learn more about these ventures, I

applaud StartUp52X’s staff and supporters for their efforts to foster business development and

empower entrepreneurs of all backgrounds. Together, we are forging a more inclusive and

equitable future for all.

On behalf of the City of New York, congratulations to this year’s graduates and the

enterprises featured here today. Please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable event and

continued success.

Sincerely,

Bill de Blasio

Mayor