The History of Power Up USA

Inspiring Communities Through Digital Equity, Creativity, and the ArtsPower Up USA

was founded with a bold vision: to bridge the gap between underserved communities and access to technology, education, and creative resources. What started as a small initiative to promote digital equity has evolved into a multifaceted organization that empowers individuals through digital literacy, arts, and community engagement. Over the years, Power Up USA has become a leader in both the digital and creative realms, hosting signature events and building a legacy of impact.

The Beginning: A Focus on Digital Equity

Power Up USA was established in response to the growing digital divide affecting underrepresented communities. With the rise of technology as an essential tool for education, career advancement, and communication, many individuals found themselves left behind. The organization's mission from the start was to empower people with the skills and access they needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

The early years of Power Up USA were defined by grassroots efforts to provide digital literacy training, device refurbishing, and access to technology for underserved populations. These efforts laid the foundation for what would become a larger movement to integrate creativity, innovation, and technology into community-building.

The Launch of the Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF)

In 2010, Power Up USA expanded its mission by establishing the Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF), a cornerstone event celebrating Black culture, creativity, and storytelling through film. The festival was born from a desire to elevate Black voices in media, providing filmmakers with a platform to showcase their work and engage with the broader community. CBFF quickly gained prominence as a regional and national hub for Black filmmakers and creators. The festival not only highlighted important narratives but also offered workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for aspiring filmmakers. Over the years, CBFF has screened hundreds of films, facilitated critical conversations about representation in media, and supported the professional growth of countless filmmakers.

Expanding into the Arts: Queen City Arts Fest

In 2020, Power Up USA further expanded its focus on the arts by launching the Queen City Arts Fest

, a celebration of diverse artistic expressions in Charlotte. The festival brought together artists, musicians, performers, and creative professionals to showcase their talents and engage with the public in a vibrant, community-centered environment. The Queen City Arts Fest

became an annual tradition, offering live performances, visual art exhibits, workshops, and hands-on activities for participants of all ages. It was designed to be more than just an arts festival—it was an opportunity to bring people together, foster creativity, and celebrate the richness of Charlotte’s cultural scene.

Building a Creative Network: Carolina Black Film Collective

In 2011, Power Up USA launched the Carolina Black Film Collective (CBFC), a network designed to support Black filmmakers, digital artists, and content creators across the Carolinas. The collective was established to create a space for collaboration, professional development, and creative growth. The CBFC offers training programs, mentorship, and project opportunities to filmmakers at all stages of their careers. By providing these resources, the collective ensures that Black creators have the tools they need to bring their stories to life and gain visibility in the competitive world of film and media. The Carolina Black Film Collective also strengthens the local filmmaking community by fostering connections among members, encouraging collaborative projects, and building a support system for creatives.

Digital Innovation and Beyond

While the arts are a central part of Power Up USA's mission, digital innovation remains at the core of its operations. The organization has continuously evolved to meet the needs of a digital-first world by offering programs that increase access to technology and digital literacy, including: Youth STEAM Programs: Engaging youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to prepare them for future careers.Device Refurbishing Center: Providing refurbished devices to underserved individuals and communities to close the technology access gap. Digital Pull-Up Program: A mobile pop-up initiative that delivers tech support and workshops directly to the community, ensuring that technology is within reach for all.

The Present and Future of Power Up USA

Today, Power Up USA stands as a leader in promoting digital equity, creative expression, and community engagement. With signature events like the Charlotte Black Film Festival, Queen City Arts Fest, and the Carolina Black Film Collective

, the organization has created a legacy that spans both the digital and creative sectors. These events not only celebrate Black culture and creativity but also serve as platforms for education, empowerment, and community connection.

Looking to the future, Power Up USA is committed to expanding its programs, amplifying its impact, and continuing to serve as a driving force for social change. By integrating the power of technology with the richness of the arts, Power Up USA will continue to uplift communities, bridge divides, and unlock potential for generations to come.

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