That’s an interesting question and reflects a complex issue. There are several reasons why Black people, as a group, may have lower participation in emerging technologies like AI, similar to what happened with opportunities like Microsoft and Amazon in the past:

1. Access to Capital and Resources:

• Wealth Disparities: Systemic economic inequality has limited access to investment capital for many Black individuals and families. Without sufficient resources, investing in high-risk ventures like AI or tech companies can be unattainable.
• Financial Inclusion: Discriminatory practices in banking and financial systems have historically made it harder for Black communities to access loans, lines of credit, and other investment tools.

2. Knowledge and Awareness:

• Lack of Exposure: Many Black communities may not have the same exposure to financial literacy, venture opportunities, or tech entrepreneurship as other communities. The importance of AI and other emerging fields might not be as broadly communicated.
• Education Gaps: Systemic inequalities in education mean that Black students often have fewer opportunities to learn about cutting-edge technology or access high-quality STEM education. This results in lower awareness about opportunities in fields like AI.

3. Representation and Role Models:

• Limited Representation: There are relatively few Black role models or leaders in the AI space. When people don’t see others like themselves participating in an industry, it can be harder to envision a place for themselves within it.
• Networking Barriers: Many investment opportunities arise from networks and connections. Black individuals have often been excluded from these influential circles, limiting their access to early-stage investment opportunities.

4. Structural and Historical Barriers:

• Systemic Barriers: The tech industry, like many others, has structural barriers that often make it difficult for Black entrepreneurs and investors to break in. Venture capital is still a predominantly white industry, and funding for Black-led startups has been disproportionately low.
• Historical Distrust: Due to a history of economic exclusion and exploitation, there can be a justified level of distrust toward new financial systems and high-risk investments, which may seem inaccessible or risky without adequate information or safety nets.

5. Perceived Risk:

• Risk Aversion: Given the economic realities for many Black families, the stakes of losing money in high-risk investments are higher, making such opportunities less appealing. AI, like any emerging tech, comes with risks, which may deter those who do not have much disposable income.

6. Lack of Targeted Outreach and Inclusion:

• Tech Companies and Investors: There hasn’t always been an intentional effort by tech companies or financial institutions to include Black communities in emerging technology investments. Initiatives to bridge this gap are relatively recent, and there is still much work to do.

Solutions and Paths Forward:

• Increasing Access to Capital: Initiatives like grants, microloans, and community investment funds can help increase access to capital for Black entrepreneurs and investors.
• Education and Awareness: Creating more educational programs focused on technology, AI, and financial literacy can help bridge the knowledge gap.
• Representation and Role Models: Highlighting Black leaders in AI and creating spaces for networking can provide inspiration and connections for potential investors.
• Inclusion Efforts by Companies: Tech companies can work to improve diversity by reaching out to underrepresented communities and creating specific programs that foster inclusivity.

The lack of Black participation in AI investment is not a matter of disinterest or inability, but rather a reflection of systemic inequities that limit access to the necessary resources, education, and opportunities. Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts at multiple levels—from financial inclusion to education reform to intentional outreach by the tech industry.