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THE BEAN PATH MARKS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATING EIGHT YEARS OF PEOPLE, PATHWAYS AND POSSIBILITIES
As The Bean Path prepares to celebrate its 8th anniversary, the Jackson-based technology nonprofit is reflecting on seven years of measurable community impact and looking ahead to its next chapter of expanding access to technology, workforce opportunities and innovation.
The organization's 7-Year Impact Report documents The Bean Path's growth from its founding in 2018 through 2025, including more than 17,000 people impacted, $6 million invested in technology access, more than 3,000 community learning programs, more than 300 entrepreneurs and small businesses supported, and $65,000 in scholarships.
The milestones provide the backdrop for The Bean Path's 8th Anniversary Week, October 19–24, 2026, celebrated under the theme “People. Pathways. Possibilities.”
“For eight years, our work has started with people—understanding where the gaps exist and creating opportunities for people to access technology, knowledge and resources,” said Dr. Nashlie Sephus, founder of The Bean Path. “When we look at the impact, every number represents a person, a family, an entrepreneur or a young person who had an opportunity to learn, build or explore something new. As we enter our next chapter, our focus is on creating even stronger pathways that lead to greater possibilities for our community.”
Originally established to bridge the technology gap through technical assistance and resources, The Bean Path has expanded its work to include youth STEAM education, entrepreneurship, workforce development and a Makerspace. Approximately 85 percent of those served have been youth, reflecting the organization's longstanding commitment to preparing the next generation of innovators.
In 2026, The Bean Path expanded its workforce development efforts through Pathways to Tech, connecting adults with technology training, industry-recognized credentials and career opportunities. The organization also opened an AT&T Connected Learning Center in July, increasing access to computers, high-speed internet and digital learning resources.
Looking ahead, The Bean Path continues to advance its vision for the Bean Path Tech District, a planned 21-acre innovation district in downtown Jackson, while expanding opportunities for residents to engage with artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
The organization's anniversary theme, “People. Pathways. Possibilities.”, reflects its commitment to connecting individuals with the resources, skills and opportunities needed to participate in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
Anniversary Week will bring that mission to life through six days of activities, including a Pathways to Tech Workforce Open House, Family STEAM Night and Youth Robotics Scrimmage, AI Hackathon, OATS Open House, a conversation with Dr. Nashlie Sephus and the 8th Anniversary Block Party.
“Eight years gives us an opportunity to celebrate, but it also gives us an opportunity to ask what the next eight years can look like,” Sephus said. “Our goal is to continue bringing people together, creating pathways to opportunity and making sure Jackson residents have a place in the technological future being built around us.”
The Bean Path's 8th Anniversary Week takes place October 19–24, 2026. Most weekday events will be held at the Bean Path Makerspace in Jackson.
For event details and registration, visit getbean.info/anniversary.
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