Tech x OAK
What will it take to build the tech future we actually want?
Tech X OAK is a vibrant community gathering that is bringing together founders, policymakers, technologists, investors, advocates, and community builders during Oakland Tech Week to explore the future we want and how to get there.
Powered by Omidyar Network, Tech X OAK is rooted in human connection, collective imagination, and the belief that a better digital future is something we must shape together.
Expect a day of provocative conversations, participatory discussions, unexpected connections, and Oakland-inspired hospitality. Together, we’ll move beyond conversations about what technology shouldn’t do and collectively explore what responsible innovation can make possible.
What to Expect
11:00 AM–12:00 PM | Welcome + Brunch
Start the day as Omidyar Network and The Tech We Want welcome the community and set the stage for the conversations ahead. Grab a coffee or matcha, enjoy something from the patisserie, meet fellow attendees, and settle in.
11:00 AM–4:00 PM | The Tech We Want Library
Explore a curated collection of books, essays, and ideas that challenge how we think about technology, and inspire us to imagine a more human and equitable tech future.
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM | The Story After Exhibit
Step into an immersive storytelling experience exploring how narratives shape the way we understand technology, power, and our future. Watch a curated series of film trailers, reflect on what stays with you through a personal postcard, and contribute one word to a live illustration that evolves throughout the day, transforming individual reactions into a collective work of art.
12:00–3:00 PM | Live Conversations + Fishbowl Discussions
Join candid, participatory conversations and bring your voice into the discussion while we explore the role of technology, policy, and power in the future we’re building together. Guiding both sessions is Jocelyn Macdougall, Lead Facilitator for The Tech We Want. You won’t just listen but have the opportunity to offer your perspective.
12:00 PM | Fishbowl Discussion 1
The Missing Constituency: Talking With Young People, Not About Them
Join George Ashford, Western Regional Director at Young People’s Alliance; Arnell Calderon, President of ColorStack; and Mayu Takeuchi of Breakwater Initiative for a candid conversation with young people about AI, and whether the future of work lives up to what they’ve been promised.
1:45 PM | Fishbowl Discussion 2
Beyond the Guardrails: Who Writes the Rules of the Tech We Want?
Explore who gets to shape the rules, incentives, and accountability structures guiding technology with Sacha Haworth, Founder and Executive Director of Tech Oversight Project; Assemblymember Buffy Wicks of California’s 14th Assembly District; Aissa Canchola Bañez, Policy Director at Protect Borrowers; and Sam Gordon, Chief Advocacy Officer at TechEquity.
3:00–5:00 PM | Tech X OAK Block Party
Enjoy food trucks, beer and wine, music, and plenty of space to connect, continue the day's conversations, and meet someone new.
Food + Drink
Yes we yum. Food and beverages will be available throughout Tech X OAK, with different offerings as the day unfolds.
All Day | Snacks + Beverages
Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be available throughout the event.
10:30 AM–12:00 PM | Coffee, Matcha + Patisserie
Start the day with fresh coffee and matcha from our specialty beverage cart, accompanied by a selection of pastries.
12:30–2:00 PM | Grab + Go Lunch
Grab-and-go sandwiches and light lunch bites will be available between conversations.
3:00–5:00 PM | Block Party Food + Drinks
Food trucks, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available during the Tech X OAK Block Party.
Food and beverage offerings are complimentary for registered attendees.
Getting Here + FAQ
Where is Tech X OAK?
Mama Dog Studios
700 26th St, Oakland, CA 94612
Detailed arrival information will be shared with registered attendees ahead of the event.
Is parking available?
Parking near Mama Dog Studios is very limited, so we strongly encourage attendees to use rideshare or public transportation rather than drive.
Is rideshare transportation provided?
Yes. Registered and approved attendees will receive a $25 Uber credit to help cover transportation to and/or from Mama Dog Studios.
Instructions for redeeming the Uber credit will be shared with confirmed attendees prior to the event.
What should I expect when I arrive?
Check in at the Tech X OAK Welcome Desk, grab your wrist bracelet, coffee or matcha, and something from the patisserie. We encourage you to arrive early, explore The Tech We Want’s Library of the Future, and connect with fellow attendees before programming begins.
Do I need to stay for the entire event?
No. Tech X OAK is designed to allow attendees to move through the experience throughout the day. Join us for the conversations most relevant to you, and we hope you'll stick around for the Block Party from 3:00–5:00 PM.
The Tech We Want Member Meeting + Dinner
4:00–7:00 PM | Private Event
Following Tech X OAK, members of The Tech We Want will gather for a private member meeting and dinner.
This portion of the program is reserved for invited TTWW members and requires a separate invitation.