Innovating for Impact: Chizz Cunningham's Vision at Archatech Labs

In an era where technology and creativity intersect to shape our future, Chizz Cunningham stands at the forefront as a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader. As the founder of Archatech Labs, he is redefining the tech landscape through innovative solutions that merge artistic expression with cutting-edge technology. In this exclusive interview with Impact In Business Magazine, Cunningham shares the pivotal moments of his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he faced, and his commitment to empowering underrepresented voices in the tech industry. With a focus on mentorship, community engagement, and a relentless pursuit of innovation, Chizz Cunningham inspires a new generation of creators and problem-solvers ready to make their mark on the world. Join us as we delve into his insights on the future of technology, the importance of resilience, and the legacy he aims to create through Archatech Labs. 

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1. Can you share the pivotal moments in your entrepreneurial journey that led you to establish Archatech Labs? What were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way? 

I've always been drawn to the arts in various forms, but I was searching for a space that wasn’t oversaturated—something that would challenge me and offer limitless potential for growth. I found that in technology. What stood out to me was how tech allows for endless creativity and innovation, while also giving me the power to build real-world solutions that don’t just benefit me but have the potential to positively impact people across the globe. That realization was the spark that led to the creation of Archatech Labs.  

The beginning was undoubtedly the hardest part. They call them programming languages for a reason—learning to code felt like mastering a completely foreign language. There were countless late nights, moments of frustration, and periods of doubt, especially when I was still navigating unfamiliar territory. But I was determined. I didn’t just want to learn—I wanted to conquer it. I committed to becoming not just good, but exceptional—someone who could set a new standard in the industry.  

My journey actually began in game development. I started building games in Unity, then transitioned to Unreal Engine, where I discovered the power of visual scripting through Blueprints. That naturally led me to learning C++, which opened even more doors. The deeper I went, the more my curiosity grew—I knew I didn’t want to stop at games. I dove into broader software development, became fascinated with quantum computing, and now, my sights are set on robotics.  

Each step has been a challenge, but every challenge has fueled my growth. Archatech Labs is the result of that persistence—a home for innovation built on passion, resilience, and the belief that creativity and technology together can change the world. 

2. Archatech Labs is known for its cutting-edge solutions. How do you foster a culture of innovation within your team, and what processes do you implement to ensure that your projects remain ahead of the curve? 

At Archatech Labs, we believe that while business should be strategic and results-driven, it should also be inspiring and enjoyable. Innovation flourishes in environments where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is rewarded, and no idea is too bold to explore.  

We foster a culture of innovation by staying deeply attuned to emerging technologies—not just observing trends, but actively working to enhance them and even build what's never been built before. Whether it's AI, quantum computing, Web3, or robotics, we don't just follow the future—we engineer it.  

Our process starts with two fundamental principles: look back and think forward. We study the pivotal technologies that have transformed the world over the last 50 to 100 years—from the rise of personal computing and the internet to the smartphone revolution and now artificial intelligence. This historical lens helps us forecast where the next wave of disruption will emerge, especially as the pace of innovation accelerates exponentially.  

Consider this: according to McKinsey, emerging technologies such as AI, bioengineering, and quantum computing could generate over $3.5 trillion to $6 trillion in annual economic impact by 2030. The World Economic Forum also estimates that 65% of children entering primary school today will work in jobs that don’t yet exist, which underscores the importance of future-ready thinking.  

At Archatech Labs, we hold weekly innovation sprints, tech deep dives, and collaborative brainstorming sessions to push boundaries. We encourage every team member—whether developer, designer, or strategist—to think like a futurist. Because staying ahead of the curve isn’t just about keeping up with technology; it’s about shaping the direction it takes. 

3. Among the various projects you've worked on, which one are you most proud of and why? How do you measure the success of your projects in terms of user experience and engagement? 

Wow—that’s a tough one. While I’m proud of many projects we've completed, I’m especially excited about the new ones currently in development. But if I had to highlight a few, I’d start with History of the Game, a groundbreaking storytelling museum centered on the evolution of basketball. This project blends a physical pop-up experience with a virtual world powered by blockchain. I’ve been building this alongside my partner, retired NBA legend Baron Davis, and we’re incredibly excited to introduce it to the world. 

One of the most innovative components is our custom-built AI assistant named KOBE, which allows users to instantly access information about athletes from various sports, simulate games using real data, and power fantasy league interactions. It’s immersive, educational, and fun—exactly the type of real-world experience Archatech Labs is known for.  

Another project I’m proud of is the full tech stack we developed for MyPal4Life, a blockchain-based pet wellness platform. We’re now expanding into hardware development with a smart collar for dogs that includes blockchain integration. The collar collects vital health data like body temperature and heart rate and rewards pet owners for keeping their animals healthy. It even generates wellness scores and reports. The platform launched in April 2025, and I’m excited about the next phase of tech and hardware deployment. 

We're also collaborating on Pebble, a blockchain-based rewards system for education, in partnership with Ozkar Services, Dan McCloskey, and Katie Cumiskey, professors at CUNY. Pebble rewards students for academic achievements that are stored on the blockchain, making them verifiable by future employers. It also serves as an AI-powered tool for professors to support student learning and boost graduation rates. Despite losing their NSF grant due to recent DEI program cuts, we’re committed to deploying the project because we believe it represents a transformational shift in the education system. 

Other projects on our roster include Liberty Isle, District One, Get A Bowl, Oatmeal Radio Café, Black Hollywood Live, SLIC TV, and many more—each one pushing boundaries in entertainment, education, health, and culture. 

When it comes to measuring success, we look at impact. Are we improving people’s lives? Are users engaging deeply with the experience? Are we building something meaningful, scalable, and future-ready? Data like engagement time, retention, sentiment analysis, and community feedback are important—but at the core, success is about creating experiences that people love, remember, and benefit from. 

4. As a thought leader in the tech industry, what trends or developments do you believe will shape the future of software engineering and game development over the next five to ten years? 

That’s a great question. Honestly, even though technologies like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing have been around for a while, I still feel like we’re just scratching the surface. We're in the early stages of what I believe will be a complete transformation of how we build, interact with, and experience technology—especially in areas like software engineering and game development.  

Let’s start with AI. While it’s not new, the capabilities we’re unlocking now—especially with generative AI and machine learning—are changing the game. In software development, AI is already helping engineers write and debug code faster, and in game development, we’re seeing AI used for everything from dynamic world-building to more intelligent NPCs and procedural storytelling.  

But it’s a double-edged sword. There’s no question that automation is replacing some traditional jobs. A Goldman Sachs report recently estimated that up to 300 million jobs worldwide could be affected by AI. So while AI increases productivity and unlocks new levels of creativity, it’s also creating real challenges when it comes to job stability and economic security—especially for people who don’t have access to upskilling opportunities.  

Now, when we talk about blockchain, I think it’s all about empowerment and ownership. Blockchain is helping decentralize power—whether it’s through smart contracts, NFTs, or digital currencies. In game development, for example, it’s enabling real asset ownership and player-driven economies. We're moving from centralized platforms to ecosystems where creators and users both benefit. But again, it comes with challenges. Regulatory uncertainty, energy consumption in certain blockchain models, and the speculative nature of some crypto projects have raised concerns. Still, with things like proof-of-stake and scalable, eco-friendly chains, we’re seeing big improvements.  

And then there’s quantum computing, which is the most futuristic of the three but also the most potentially disruptive. Quantum is going to completely change what we think is possible when it comes to computing power. We're talking about breakthroughs in AI training, drug discovery, financial modeling, and maybe even game development down the road. At the same time, it could pose real security threats if we don’t move quickly to adopt post-quantum encryption standards. It’s powerful, but we have to be prepared.  

So yeah, each of these technologies brings incredible opportunity, but also real risks. According to the World Economic Forum, over 80 million jobs could be displaced by 2027, while about 69 million new ones will be created. So it’s not just about losing jobs—it’s about evolving. Lifelong learning is going to be a must in this next chapter.  

At Archatech Labs, we’re really intentional about that. We’re building with a focus on innovation but also on impact. Our goal isn’t just to stay ahead of the curve—it’s to help shape it responsibly. We want to create tools and experiences that improve lives, not just disrupt them. 

5. You have expressed a commitment to mentorship and education in tech. What specific skills or knowledge do you believe are crucial for aspiring software engineers and game developers today? 

I’m from Jamaica, Queens in New York, and growing up, we didn’t have a lot of representation outside of sports and music. Those were the only lanes we really saw, which left so many of us competing in oversaturated industries with extremely slim chances of long-term success. Even when it came to local businesses, I rarely saw owners who looked like me—and that, whether we realized it or not, shaped our mindset. It made it feel like our only options were to either make it big in entertainment or settle for a regular job just to get by.  

That’s a cycle I’m committed to breaking.  

I want to show kids—and adults—from communities like mine that they belong in tech. They use technology every single day, but too often they don’t believe they’re smart enough to create it. The truth is, while intelligence matters, tech success also comes down to patience, discipline, creativity, and having someone believe in you long enough to help you take that first step.  

There are so many young people who love playing video games but have never been exposed to the idea that they can actually make games—build the worlds they love to explore, write the code behind the characters, or design the systems that power an entire experience. I want to plant those seeds, nurture them, and watch those talents grow. I want to see the underprivileged not just participate, but thrive—and lead—in this space.  

And we need it now more than ever.  

Right now, only about 5% of software developers in the U.S. are Black, and less than 7% are Hispanic or Latinx, according to Stack Overflow’s 2023 Developer Survey. Even more alarming, a report from the Kapor Center and the NAACP showed that Black and Latinx workers hold just 4-5% of technical roles at major tech companies, despite making up over 30% of the U.S. population combined.  

But the potential is enormous. The tech industry is projected to add over 682,000 new jobs by 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics—and many of those roles won’t require a traditional college degree, just the right skills and training. That opens the door for self-taught coders, bootcamp graduates, and people from non-traditional backgrounds—if they know it’s even possible.  

So to me, the most important skills for aspiring software engineers and game developers are:  

- Curiosity — the willingness to learn something new every day. 

- Creativity — especially in game development, where design thinking is as valuable as coding.  

- Problem-solving — being able to break big challenges into small, solvable steps.  

- Resilience — because setbacks will come, but so will breakthroughs if you stay the course.  

My mission is to make sure the next generation doesn’t grow up thinking tech is a world they don’t belong in—because it is. They just need access, exposure, and the belief that they can do it. And once they see it, they’ll start building things we’ve never even dreamed of. 

6. How does Archatech Labs engage with the tech community and contribute to the growth of the industry? Do you have any initiatives or partnerships that focus on community development? 

I’m currently collaborating with the C-Better Foundation to develop easy-to-understand, accessible tech courses designed to empower people from all walks of life—especially those in underserved communities. The goal is to break down barriers and create clear, supportive pathways for individuals to enter the tech space, build real skills, and shine in roles they may have never imagined were possible.  

In addition to that, I’m in early talks to launch a tech-focused podcast where we’ll explore innovation, entrepreneurship, and the human stories behind the code. It’s all about making tech feel relatable, inclusive, and within reach for everyone. 

7. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to break into the tech industry? Are there any common pitfalls you would advise them to avoid? 

First and foremost, I’d tell any aspiring entrepreneur: prepare for the blood, sweat, and tears—but also prepare to be rewarded for doing the difficult things that most people avoid. The tech industry isn’t easy. It will challenge you mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually at times. But the growth, the impact, and the sense of creation you gain from it are absolutely worth it.  

My biggest piece of advice is this: just start. Don’t wait until everything is perfect or until you “know enough.” Start experimenting. Start writing code, even if it breaks. Start building, even if it’s messy. The learning happens in the doing. Every error message, every failed launch, and every sleepless night will eventually become a stepping stone to mastery—if you stay committed.  

Also, use every tool and resource available to you. The internet has democratized learning. There are free courses, open-source communities, AI copilots, and mentorship programs out there—you just have to be resourceful. If you’re coming from an underrepresented or non-traditional background, know this: you may not have all the connections or capital, but you have the ability to learn, adapt, and innovate—and that’s priceless.  

That said, there are a few common pitfalls I’d caution against:  

- Waiting too long to launch. Perfection is the enemy of progress. Ship it, test it, improve it.  

- Building in isolation. Community is powerful. Collaborate, network, and get feedback early.  

- Lack of discipline. Talent will open the door, but discipline will keep you in the room.  

- Avoiding failure. Failure is not the opposite of success—it’s part of the process.  

To succeed in tech, you’ll need to take risks. You’ll need to hold yourself accountable, even when no one’s watching. You’ll need to set goals and track your progress. Most importantly, you’ll need to develop a builder’s mindset—one that sees problems as puzzles, not roadblocks.  

And remember: software is powerful because it scales. One app, one line of code, one digital experience—can impact millions of people. That’s the opportunity we’re all holding. The question is: what are you going to do with it?  

So to every aspiring entrepreneur: dream bold, start now, and keep going. The world needs your ideas—and it’s time to build. 

8. You mentioned the fusion of creativity and technology. How do you personally balance these two aspects in your work, and how important is this balance for the success of a tech venture? 

For me, creativity and technology aren’t opposites—they’re partners. One doesn’t work without the other. I’ve always looked at technology as a blank canvas, and creativity as the paint. The code, the hardware, the algorithms—those are the tools. But it’s the vision behind them, the story you’re trying to tell or the problem you’re trying to solve, that brings them to life.  

In my own work, I’m constantly switching between both mindsets. There are times I’m deep in technical architecture—figuring out how to scale a system, optimize performance, or solve complex problems. But I always make space to step back and ask, “Is this experience meaningful? Is it beautiful? Is it intuitive? Does it make someone’s life better?” That’s where the creative lens comes in.  

I think this balance is absolutely critical to the success of any tech venture. Some of the most iconic and world-changing technologies weren’t just functional—they were elegant, emotional, and easy to use. Think about how Apple fused design and engineering, or how video games create emotional resonance through both storytelling and interactivity. That doesn’t happen without deep respect for both sides of the equation.  

In today’s landscape, especially with emerging tech like AI, blockchain, and immersive experiences, the companies that will lead the future are the ones that understand that how you build is just as important as what you build. People don't just want tech that works—they want tech that feels human.  

So for me, the fusion of creativity and technology isn’t just a balance—it’s a strategy, a philosophy, and a competitive edge. And at Archatech Labs, we make sure both are woven into everything we do. 

9. Beyond your professional accomplishments, what drives you personally? Are there any hobbies or interests that fuel your creativity or influence your approach to business? 

Honestly, I find inspiration everywhere. It could be something as simple as a morning walk. I’ll see a sign for a small business and immediately start wondering—are they using technology to improve their operations? Are they automating the right processes? Are they tapping into tools that could save them time, money, or energy? My mind’s always spinning with questions like that. I see the world through a lens of possibility, constantly thinking about how things could be better, smoother, smarter.  

I'm always asking myself: What are people missing that they don't even know they need yet? How can we help people buy back their time? How can we improve everyday experiences—make them more immersive, more meaningful? What can we tokenize or fractionalize to give ownership and agency back to everyday consumers? Creativity isn’t just something I turn on during work hours—it’s how I move through life.  

But above all, my biggest drive is family and legacy. That’s what centers me. That’s what keeps me going when the days are long and the challenges are heavy. I want to build something that lasts—not just for recognition, but so my family, my community, and the people coming up after me can see what’s possible. I want them to know they have options. That they can be innovators, creators, leaders—not just participants in someone else’s system.  

So yes, I love building. I love solving problems. But what fuels it all is something deeply personal: the desire to leave something behind that matters. 

10. Looking ahead, what is your ultimate vision for Archatech Labs? What legacy do you hope to leave in the tech industry, and how do you plan to achieve that? 

My vision for Archatech Labs is for it to become one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking tech agencies in the world—a true powerhouse at the intersection of technology, culture, and innovation. We’re not just building software; we’re building ecosystems. I want Archatech Labs to be known as a company that pioneers solutions across a broad range of industries, including software and hardware development, artificial intelligence, gaming, film, music, quantum computing, robotics, and blockchain.  

We're entering a new era where these technologies aren’t just separate verticals—they’re converging, creating entirely new possibilities. I see Archatech Labs at the center of that convergence. Whether we’re developing decentralized tools that return power to the people, building immersive games that educate and entertain, or designing robotics that improve quality of life, the goal is always the same: impact at scale.  

But legacy, for me, goes beyond business success. I want Archatech Labs to serve as proof that innovation can come from anywhere—even from communities that have historically been overlooked or underestimated. I want young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to look at what we’re building and say, “If they did it, I can too.” That’s legacy.  

To achieve that, it’s going to take more than just good code or great ideas—it takes community, mentorship, vision, and relentless execution. We’re investing in talent, nurturing curiosity, and creating spaces where creativity and discipline work hand in hand. We’re not chasing trends—we’re helping define what comes next.  

Ultimately, I want Archatech Labs to leave a lasting imprint—not just on the tech industry but on the way people think about access, ownership, and possibility in the digital age. That’s the legacy I’m working toward. And we’re just getting started. 

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