Allow me to introduce Darius Calliet, a 28-year-old software engineer who made a conscious decision to move his family back to New Orleans so his children could grow up around their grandparents and family. The beauty of technology is that it allows him to work from anywhere, and yet he wanted to come home. We discussed how the city and state could be special places for emerging technologies. It is built on community, resources, and support. The same environment that has nurtured so many, can grow and develop the next generation of tech and energy geniuses. I reminded Darius that this time is similar to what took place in Atlanta, GA, over 40 years ago. Then-Mayor Maynard Jackson, requested that up to 20–25% of contracts associated with building the airport go to black-owned businesses. The rest is history. Atlanta is thriving and has grown into a hub of opportunities for many people of color. To quote Frankie Beverly, when asked, “Why do an album in New Orleans?” His answer was, “Why not ya dig?” Why make Louisiana a black and brown tech and renewable energy hub? “Why not, ya dig?” There are plenty of reasons why we should make Louisiana a black and brown tech and renewable energy hub. For starters, it will provide equitable opportunities for talented individuals to stay in or come back to their communities and contribute to their growth. It will also make us more competitive in recruiting businesses and talent to the state. We can take inspiration from Atlanta's success story and apply it to Louisiana. The partnerships that have been formed are all working towards the same goal of developing a stronger Louisiana for all Louisianans. OHUB New Orleans is doing its part by locating and nurturing black and brown talent and incubating minority-owned new energy startups through our New Energy Technology Incubator. With community, resources, and support, Louisiana can become a thriving hub for emerging technologies and a home for some of the country's best and brightest. Join us. www.ohubfridays.com