Legacy & Innovation: Toni Green’s Vision for Tech in Birmingham
- Courtney Woods
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
This month, we are thrilled to highlight our Tech Queen On The Scene, Toni Green, the dynamic force behind Black Belt Technologies and BBT Connects. Toni’s journey is one of legacy, innovation, and community impact, making her a true trailblazer in Birmingham’s tech scene.
A Legacy of Innovation & Excellence
Toni Green, a Birmingham native, grew up on the east side of town and pursued a degree in public relations and Spanish. While her studies didn’t initially focus on technology, her path was shaped by her father, who founded Black Belt Technologies (BBT) 20 years ago.
Her father, an electrical engineering graduate from the University of Alabama, started BBT in the wake of the 2001 economic downturn and post-9/11 challenges. Today, the company specializes in network managed services, broadband, and security solutions—both hardware and software.
The Birth of BBT Connects
BBT Connects emerged in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, as an extension of Black Belt Technologies. While Black Belt Technologies focuses on engineering and design, BBT Connects handles the customer and community-facing aspects of the business.
BBT Connects is dedicated to fostering tech education and workforce development through:
Co-working spaces for small businesses
A Tech Academy offering programs for learners from grade 5 to senior citizens
Community outreach initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide
A Purpose-Driven Business Space
In 2015, Toni’s father and his business partner purchased a 20,000-square-foot building in North Birmingham, an area that, at the time, was struggling economically. The vision was clear—to revitalize the community and provide an affordable, resource-rich space for small business owners, especially women of color.
Recognizing the struggles of starting a business without access to networks or mentorship, Toni’s father committed to pouring his knowledge and resources back into aspiring entrepreneurs. Today, BBT Connects provides not just office space, but mentorship and business support to help small businesses thrive.
The Meaning Behind ‘Black Belt’
While many associate the name Black Belt Technologies with the historically underserved Black Belt region of Alabama, its roots actually lie in martial arts principles. The company’s name symbolizes precision, discipline, excellence, and commitment—values that define the way they operate.
Interestingly, Toni’s father’s late business partner was a black belt martial artist, further solidifying the name’s significance. The name has since taken on a dual meaning as the company continues to serve clients within the Black Belt region and beyond.
The Future of BBT Connects
As Black Belt Technologies and BBT Connects grow, Toni and her team remain focused on empowering businesses, closing the digital divide, and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. Their mission is clear: to create an environment where technology is accessible and where innovation thrives.
Final Thoughts
Toni Green’s leadership at Black Belt Technologies and BBT Connects is an inspiring example of purpose-driven tech entrepreneurship. By blending business innovation with community impact, she is not only continuing her father’s legacy but also carving out a unique space for women and minorities in tech.
We celebrate Toni Green as our Tech Queen On The Scene this month, recognizing her efforts to redefine Birmingham’s tech ecosystem and empower the next generation of tech leaders.
Want to learn more about Black Belt Technologies & BBT Connects? Visit their space in North Birmingham and explore how they are shaping the future of tech in Alabama!
Connect with Toni Green and Learn More:
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