Innovative Initiatives delivers hands-on digital literacy and STEM programs to youth, adults, and seniors throughout Maryland.
Innovative Initiatives Inc. is a Baltimore-based nonprofit delivering community-driven, hands-on STEM and Digital Literacy education to everyone — from children discovering computers for the first time to seniors navigating telehealth appointments.
We believe that technology access is a right, not a privilege. No one is turned away due to financial hardship. From your first day of class to your first day of employment, we guide you every step of the way.
Our hands-on approach ensures participants gain practical, real-world digital skills that open doors to employment, healthcare, education, and civic participation.
Technology education for all — no prior experience or financial means required.
Students build real computers, write real code, and leave with workplace-ready skills.
Graduates receive certifications, equipment, and a clear pathway to employment.
100% focused on underserved Baltimore neighborhoods with limited technology access.
Every session is hands-on, community-driven, and built around our students' real needs. See what learning looks like at Innovative Initiatives.
Customized, hands-on training for all skill levels — from first-time computer users to emerging tech professionals.
Young learners assemble a full PC from scratch, take it home, and receive one year of internet access — launching their digital future on day one.
A two-part program — digital literacy training followed by hands-on PC building — giving adults the skills and tools to access jobs, healthcare, and education.
A supportive, judgment-free environment giving seniors the confidence to video-call family, manage healthcare online, and stay connected to their community.
Every course is built around practical, real-world application — skills students use immediately.
Computer hardware, Windows navigation, internet & email, Microsoft Office, cybersecurity, telehealth, and online banking.
PC components, assembly, hardware troubleshooting, digital creativity. Students take home a built computer plus one year of internet.
Adult learners select components, assemble a custom PC, install the OS, and take it home with one year of internet access.
AI concepts, cybersecurity principles, threat awareness, and digital safety. Industry certification pathway included.
Cutting-edge programs designed to prepare our community for the careers and skills of tomorrow — from AI to 3D printing to virtual reality.
An immersive, industry-recognized program teaching the essentials of Generative AI — from prompt engineering to ethical AI use. Participants earn the Certiport Generative AI Foundations Certification, a nationally recognized credential valid for 5 years, backed by Pearson VUE.
Practical, career-focused AI training for adults at any skill level. Participants earn the Certiport Generative AI Foundations Certification — a nationally recognized credential valued across every industry from healthcare and legal to marketing, IT, and business.
Young makers learn to design, prototype, and print real 3D objects — from concept to creation. Every participant calibrates and operates their own printer throughout the program and takes it home at graduation.
Explore immersive technology through Meta VR headsets — from virtual workplaces and education environments to design and collaboration in the metaverse. Each participant takes home their VR glasses at program completion.
Whether you want to enroll in Digital Literacy training or bring our programs to your organization's facility — we'd love to connect.
Ready to build your digital skills? Complete our interest form and our team will reach out within 1–2 business days to discuss enrollment, scheduling, and available cohorts at our Baltimore facility.
Is your organization interested in hosting a Digital Literacy cohort? We can bring our instructors and curriculum to your location — or you can send participants to train at our Baltimore facility. Let's build a plan together.
Real members of our Baltimore community whose lives changed through technology education.
I built my own gaming computer from scratch and I get to take it home. I never thought I could do something like this!
Every student gets hands-on time with real hardware — GPUs, motherboards, and components — learning by doing from day one.
Our youngest builders learn the same skills as professionals — screwdrivers, components, and all. No shortcuts, just real hands-on learning.
Your investment launches careers, bridges the digital divide, and strengthens underserved Baltimore communities.
We track employment rates, certifications, and community reach — full transparency for every dollar.
100% of participants come from low-to-moderate income neighborhoods with limited technology access.
Graduates leave with a computer, internet access, and certification — assets that outlast the program.
Whether you're a foundation, corporation, or individual donor — there are meaningful ways to invest in Baltimore's digital future.
Make a Donation ↗This vocabulary game was built using the same coding and logic skills taught in our programs. Try it — then imagine what your investment helps students create.
Community leaders, educators, and technology professionals committed to digital equity throughout Maryland.
Jay Roy is the founder and CEO of OMNI Technologies, now in its 11th year. A U.S. Army Service-Disabled Veteran with more than 20 years in government contracting, Jay has served the DoD and intelligence communities with a focus on Army Intel and R&D. A serial entrepreneur with a background in System Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Software Development, he has diversified OMNI's portfolio to include Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, DevSecOps, and Logistics. Outside of work, Jay is a husband, father, and mentor who serves on several community and industry boards.
Harold Booker Jr. is a tech leader and the founder and principal of DrewJenk Consulting, where he serves clients including the California High Speed Rail, Clemson University, Creatively Black Baltimore, and the Greater Baltimore Urban League. Previously, he spent a decade in the construction industry implementing software and change management for K-12, higher education, and government clients. A native of Beaumont, Texas, and a Morehouse College graduate, Harold is a certified Project Management Professional and Certified Scrum Master, and a member of the National Urban League, 100 Black Men, and the Morehouse Alumni Association.
Jenaee Mitchell is a seasoned financial executive with 17 years of experience in accounting and a proven record of fiscal leadership across both corporate and nonprofit sectors. Since 2019, she has served as Chief Financial Officer, bringing strategic financial oversight and operational discipline to every organization she leads. With more than seven years of dedicated board service as Treasurer for multiple nonprofits, Jenaee specializes in compliance and financial management, ensuring the organizations she serves operate with integrity, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
Javen Lacy serves as Program Coordinator for Innovative Initiatives, supporting the day-to-day operations of our STEM and Digital Literacy programs throughout Baltimore.
Camisha Beverly is a dynamic leader with over 20 years of experience in marketing, training, development, and entrepreneurship across industries including radio, advertising, and education. As Managing Director at Per Scholas, a national nonprofit providing no-cost tech career training, she drives the organization's mission forward in Baltimore by engaging community partners and funders focused on economic equity. A master relationship-builder and strong advocate for non-traditional education pathways, Camisha is dedicated to championing inclusivity, equity, and expanded access to opportunity for individuals overcoming geographic, financial, and personal barriers.
James E. Mitchell Jr. is the Founder and Executive Director of Innovative Initiatives Inc. and the CEO of Reasonable Tech Solutions Inc. A leader in network security, helpdesk, and IT services for more than 20 years, James founded Reasonable Tech Solutions in 2013, supporting businesses and nonprofits across the Mid-Atlantic with helpdesk and advanced security solutions including CMMC and NIST 800-171 compliance. In 2015, he founded Innovative Initiatives Inc. to bridge the digital divide through hands-on workforce training in digital literacy, cybersecurity, and PC building for underserved youth and adults throughout Baltimore.
Tershea Rice is a U.S. Navy Veteran and dynamic leader with over two decades of experience blending administrative expertise with a passion for human resources. As CEO of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, she has helped the organization assist more than 1,500 individuals through innovative programs and comprehensive support services. A proud Baltimorean, entrepreneur, and host of the Voices of the People podcast, Tershea is a tireless advocate for civil rights, women's rights, health, and educational equity.
We welcome individuals with expertise in education, technology, law, finance, or community development who share our commitment to digital equity in Baltimore.
Whether you're a student ready to enroll, a funder, or a partner — we'd love to hear from you.
We're here to help with enrollment, funding partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and general inquiries. We respond within 1–2 business days.
Innovative Initiatives Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
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