CodeFest Boosts Kingston – But Who Benefits?

Kingston City buzzed with energy this weekend as the annual Kingston CodeFest drew a record-breaking 800+ developers, injecting a much-needed shot of excitement – and potential – into our local economy. The 48-hour hackathon, held at Kingston University, showcased the growing strength of Kingston’s tech sector, attracting significant attention from venture capitalists eager to invest in the Republic’s burgeoning software talent.

The top prize went to a start-up from New Haven, whose innovative AI-powered fishery-tracking app impressed judges. While the win is undoubtedly a testament to the potential of such technologies, it also raises a critical question: How much of this investment truly benefits Kingston’s own developers and entrepreneurs?

“It’s fantastic to see the interest in Kingston’s tech scene,” said local developer and CodeFest participant, Marcus Bell. “But we need to ensure that opportunities are accessible to everyone, not just those with connections or access to external funding.”

The influx of capital is certainly a positive sign, potentially creating jobs and stimulating growth. However, it’s crucial that we, as a community, prioritize mentorship programs and resources for local talent, ensuring that Kingston’s own innovators aren’t left behind in the rush for investment. The Republic of Kingston needs to leverage this success to bolster its own educational institutions, particularly those like the Port Royal Institute of Technology, to cultivate the next generation of local tech leaders. This isn’t about discouraging outside investment, but about ensuring it serves the greater good of our community, and creates lasting opportunities for all Kingston citizens.

CodeFest represents a promising future for Kingston, but only if we actively shape that future to benefit everyone, not just a select few.