As we reflect on the historic 2024 Democratic National Convention, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of joy, hope, and purpose. For our team at Higher Ground Labs, this convention was more than just a political gathering – it was a powerful affirmation of our mission and the progress we’re striving to achieve.
As a team comprised primarily of women and people of color working at the intersection of politics, technology, and venture capital, we understand firsthand the importance of representation and breaking barriers. Vice President Kamala Harris’s nomination as the Democratic candidate for President isn’t just a political milestone; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of elevating voices from all communities.
For us, Kamala Harris embodies the spirit of progress and the entrepreneurial drive that fuels America’s innovation. At HGL, we too are breaking barriers in our field, championing voices in political technology and venture capital that have historically been underrepresented. Harris’ candidacy represents a future where barriers are meant to be broken and where progress is not just possible but inevitable.
HGL descended on the 2024 Democratic National Convention ready to showcase how technology can power our democracy and revolutionize political engagement. The energy and collective drive to “do something” – to take concrete action for meaningful change – was palpable throughout the week.
Innovation Lounge by Microsoft and HGL
Our journey began with the opening of our Innovation Lounge, a collaboration with Microsoft that became the epicenter of political tech at the convention. Situated in McCormick Place Convention Center, this vibrant space served as a hub for connection, innovation, and recharging — both literally and figuratively. Political leaders, technologists, and innovators flowed through our space, exploring cutting-edge political technologies and witnessing firsthand the critical role our portfolio companies play in Democratic political tech infrastructure.
Throughout the week, our Innovation Lounge remained a constant hive of activity. Between scheduled trainings on mitigating deepfake risks, relational organizing, and AI usage for politics, attendees could be found networking in our lounge area, powering up at our charging stations, or capturing memories at our photo booth. It was a space where ideas were exchanged, connections were made, and the future of political technology was being shaped in real-time.
Mo Cheeks of Grow Progress speaking with convention delegates at our Innovation Lounge
The evenings were just as eventful as the days. Our Political Tech Happy Hour, co-hosted with industry leaders ActBlue, TargetSmart, NGP VAN, OneOne Ventures, Zinc Labs, and Cooperative Impact Lab, provided a relaxed setting for networking and discussions about political tech in 2024. As attendees mingled and exchanged ideas, there was a palpable sense of anticipation for the convention’s first day of speakers at the United Center.
Generative AI’s Impact on the 2024 Cycle
Midweek, we shifted our focus to the transformative potential of responsible generative AI in politics. Our panel on AI and Democracy, organized in collaboration with NosTerra Ventures, was held at Chicago’s iconic Erie Cafe, providing a unique backdrop for this important dialogue. The group of experts included Ginny Badanes, General Manager, Democracy Forward, Microsoft; Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, California State Assembly; Senator Josh Becker, California Senate; Hillary Lehr, CEO, Quiller & Operating Partner, HGL; Irene Liu, CA Senate AI Advisor; and Marisa Lagos, Co-host of Political Breakdown, KQED Public Media. Together, these panelists explored the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and our democratic processes, with a focus on innovation and regulation.
Left to right: Irene Liu, Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Hillary Lehr, Ginny Badanes, Marisa Lagos
Betsy Hoover sits down with POLITICO
Following the panel, Higher Ground Labs’ Founder and Managing Partner, Betsy Hoover, sat down with POLITICO’s Steven Overly to discuss how AI and technology can help Democrats secure victory in 2024. As campaigns increasingly rely on tech-driven solutions—like AI-powered tools for writing fundraising emails and targeting voters—the right technology can be a game-changer in tight races. Listen to their conversation here.
Betsy Hoover with Steven Overly. Listen to their conversation here.
Black VC’s & Tech for Kamala
Higher Ground Labs partnered with Tech4Kamala and Black VCs for Kamala to host the DNC Midweek Mixer. This happy hour brought together investors, executives, and tech operators, symbolizing the bridge we’re building between Silicon Valley and Pennsylvania Avenue. Organizers Shila Nieves Burney, Charlotte Newman, and Tiana Tukes did an outstanding job rallying VCs and tech leaders in support of Kamala Harris
Black VCs x Tech4Kamala x HGL happy hour
The unique impacts of AI on women in politics
As the convention drew to a close, we tackled one of the most pressing issues at the intersection of technology and politics: the unique challenges faced by women in the political arena. Our panel on Mitigating AI-Driven Risks for Women in Politics, held in partnership with Microsoft, brought this critical conversation to the forefront. Experts Betsy Hoover, Founder & Managing Partner, HGL; Danyelle Solomon, US AI Policy, Microsoft; Maya Rupert, Political Strategist and Writer; Secretary Maggie Toulouse Oliver, New Mexico; Sevetri Wilson Taylor, Entrepreneur and Author; & Radha Arghal, CTO, Emily’s List explored the complex landscape of misinformation, disinformation, and deepfakes, while also highlighting how AI can be harnessed as a tool for protection and empowerment.
Left to right: Betsy Hoover, Maggie Toulouse Oliver, Danyelle Solomon, Maya Rupert, Radha Argal
We left the week in Chicago feeling energized and inspired. Each event, each conversation, and each demonstration of innovative technology reinforced our belief in the power of progress to transform our political landscape. We departed with a renewed commitment to our mission, ready to turn the excitement and ideas generated at the convention into actionable strategies for the crucial months ahead.
HGL is proud to highlight the portfolio companies that powered the convention, including SoSha and Greenfly, along with Daisychain, with its texting Charms supporting HGL’s efforts throughout the week.
Since 2017, HGL has invested in over 70 political technology startups and deployed over $53 million across four funds, supporting companies at the forefront of campaign innovation.
