CODE2040: Changing the Game

By Robert Siegel, Jackie Bello
2015 | Case No. E573 | Length 17 pgs.

CODE2040 was founded by Tristan Walker and Laura Weidman Powers to create pathways to success for blacks and Latinos in the technology and entrepreneurship sector by providing mentoring and coaching for students beginning their careers. Over the course of the case Weidman Powers wrestles with finding funding for the organization, growing and building a team in a mission-driven organization, and also with her limitations as a first-time CEO. In addition, the team discovers how to take advantage of the changing conversation in the technology industry for minorities, and how they are able to use the dynamic market conditions to drive their efforts.

Learning Objective

The goal of the case is to show students how a recent business school graduate has to navigate running a company only a few years after completing her Master’s degree. Students see the challenges and opportunities of CODE2040, and learning from how a first-time CEO navigates issues such as fundraising and team development in a non-profit setting.
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