AfroTech 2024 made history this year in Houston, welcoming over 30,000 attendees to the largest Black tech conference in America. As a small business owner and tech consultant, I’m here to share my top tips on how to not just survive AfroTech, but thrive. This conference is a powerhouse of opportunity—but only if you’re prepared to make it work for you.

AfroTech has come a long way from its roots in Oakland, CA. Now, with a city-wide presence in Houston, the conference sprawls across the George R. Brown Convention Center, with corporate-sponsored meet-and-greets, exclusive events, and pop-ups all around town. But Houston isn’t exactly walkable, so if you’re new here, know that a few planning hacks can go a long way.

Here’s what I learned, as well as my advice on how to make AfroTech an effective experience, especially as a business owner or entrepreneur. There’s plenty of chatter on social media debating AfroTech’s effectiveness, and while experiences vary, much of it comes down to the kind of attendee you are and what you’re looking to achieve.

AfroTech is massive and can be overwhelming without a strategy. A few weeks—preferably even months—before the conference, start planning. Review the schedule, identify target events, and list the companies and individuals you want to connect with. Your plan should outline which events are “must-attend” and which are secondary.

Pro Tip: Prioritize by impact. Think about which events will offer the highest return on your time investment, especially if you’re looking to network with Fortune 500 companies or potential clients.

2. Network Like a Pro (Update Your Digital Presence)

AfroTech is one of those conferences where preparation is half the battle, and that includes your digital presence. Make sure your social media profiles, website, and any other materials are polished and up-to-date. You’ll be meeting a lot of people, and a quick search or QR scan can lead to opportunities—but only if your profiles represent your best self.

Have a quick, two-minute elevator pitch ready, too. In a sea of thousands, a concise and clear pitch helps people understand who you are and what you’re about. It also positions you as someone who values their time and others’.

Pro Tip: Practice that pitch until it feels natural and adaptable to different conversations. AfroTech is fast-paced, so it helps to be confident with your message!

3. Follow Up—Strategically and Persistently

This is where many people fall off, and it’s one of the biggest reasons that some attendees don’t see the conference ROI they expect. After AfroTech, have a follow-up plan ready. Who will you email, connect with on LinkedIn, or invite to a virtual coffee? Set up a system (I recommend using a CRM tool or even a basic spreadsheet) to track follow-ups.

Pro Tip: Follow up within a week, while memories are fresh. Personalize your messages with specific details from your conversations. This helps build relationships that go beyond a one-time meeting.

4. Be Clear on Your Goals (Know What You’re After)

AfroTech is packed with potential, but it’s easy to get swept up in the sheer volume of events and people. So, ask yourself: What do I want from this experience? Are you seeking new clients? High-end contacts? Insight on tech trends?

When you’re clear about your goals, you’ll approach every interaction with purpose, which is incredibly valuable when juggling so many activities. Consistency with your goal will help you make the right decisions about where to go, who to connect with, and which conversations to pursue.

Pro Tip: If you’re meeting a Fortune 500 rep, focus on how your services could benefit their company. If you’re talking with a fellow entrepreneur, be open to discussing potential partnerships or collaborative projects.

5. Show Up Authentically (Your Unique Self Is Your Best Asset)

AfroTech is a gathering of diverse Black tech professionals, so you already have a shared connection that fosters an inclusive environment. But don’t stop there—bring your authentic self to every conversation. Authenticity is key to building relationships that last, and people are drawn to those who share a bit of their personal story.

Think of ways to express who you are, beyond your business goals. Whether it’s a passion, a personal goal, or a unique perspective, sharing this helps people see the real you and builds trust.

Pro Tip: Check out Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. It’s a masterclass on networking with authenticity and intention, which is essential in settings like AfroTech.