Alexander Knight

Renee King is the founder of fundBlackfounders, a crowdfunding platform designed to transform how Black entrepreneurs access early-stage funding. Recognizing the systemic challenges faced by Black founders in securing capital—especially through traditional friends and family rounds—Renee set out to redefine what "friends and family" funding could look like. Inspired by her struggles raising start-up capital and witnessing the harsh realities many Black founders face, Renee made it her mission to provide a collaborative platform that empowers entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. Through crowdfunding, FundBlackFounders has helped Black founders raise nearly $4 million in capital—blending traditional finance, grants, and impact investment to pave the way for economic empowerment. Renee offered valuable advice on how we, as a community, can propel the entrepreneurial ecosystem. She emphasized, "Everyone needs to be a funder right now... whether you are going to become accredited or not, whether you're going to support people's crowdfunding campaigns...We all need to be doubling down on funding Black-owned businesses from all different aspects." Renee's platform goes beyond funding; it offers match funds to double down on founders' efforts, ensuring they reach their goals and create lasting change in their communities. Her collaborative approach harnesses the power of group economics, proving that everyone thrives when communities invest in their own. Amplify Renee's work by reposting it and sharing it with your network. Learn more about her work and connect here: https://lnkd.in/gAu5gZMd #MemberMonday #SupportBlackBusiness #Innovation #ImpactDrivenLeadership #DecadeofBlackInnovation #Entrepreneurship #BlackInnovation #Innovator #Entrepreneur #DigitalEconomy #Startups #SmallBusiness #BlackEntrepreneurs #Fundraising #Crowdfunding

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The Taste Radio podcast by BevNET.com has launched a new series called: “Black Founders Club,” and the premier guest features our #PortCo A Dozen Cousins’ Founder & CEO Ibraheem Basir. In this episode, Ibraheem shares his journey as a Black entrepreneur, his funding experiences, and his future goals for A Dozen Cousins.  Watch the video on BevNET.com or listen to the Taste Radio podcast on major platforms. Don't miss it! https://lnkd.in/enD5mT7n #entrepreneurship #founders #startups #foodandbeverage #podcasts

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I AM THE ALGORITHM- Jewel Burks Solomon As Managing Partner at Collab Capital, Jewel Burks Solomon is empowering Black founders and entrepreneurs to scale their innovations. She’s making sure that access to investment isn’t limited to a select few. I AM THE ALGORITHM creating pathways to investment and innovation for Black entrepreneurs. Her work is a reminder that access to capital is essential for building a more equitable tech industry. #IAmTheAlgorithm #BlackFounders #TechForGood #BlackWomen #DiversityInEntrepreneurship #VentureCapital

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Join us in the Zone👊🏿 We are so excited to announce that the BlackNorth Initiative, Black Founders Network, Nobellum, Black Entrepreneurship Alliance, Federation of Black Canadians, Black Opportunity Fund, DMZ, Tribe Network, and African Impact Initiative are uniting to form the Black Innovation Zone - featured at this year’s Collision Conf 2024! 🎉This collective is dedicated to increasing access and visibility, by amplifying the voices and innovations of Black founders, investors and professionals across Canada and beyond.🙌🏿 The Black Innovation Zone is more than just a collective; it's a movement aimed at empowering Black entrepreneurs, investors and professionals by providing them with the platform they need to showcase their talents on an international stage. Our goal is to foster professional development, community building, and to serve as a beacon for those navigating the challenges faced by Black founders in the tech industry and other sectors. Join us at our booth (E167) during Collision week, and stay tuned for exciting updates about the events, opportunities and activations we will be curating for Black innovators. We’re here to promote cross-cultural collaborations and inclusivity within the global business ecosystem. It's time to share the stories and innovations of Black founders at Collision. 🎉Here's to building a legacy and creating a road map for future Black innovators in Canada and around the globe! 🌍 Help us shape the Black Innovation Zone experience, by filling out our programming survey in the link below. With your feedback, we can continue to build for the community, with the community. 💪🏿 https://lnkd.in/gkUXq4nt #BlackInnovationZone #Collison2024 #TechConference #BlackEntrepreneurs #ProfessionalDevelopment #Community

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We are thrilled to share an article that highlights 10 Black-Owned Startups To Watch. Two of our portfolio companies Muse Tax (Techstars '22) and GigEasy were featured, as well as our very own Richard Odior. This recognition is a testament to our team's continued hard work and dedication to executing our Inclusive Investing strategy. Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gZiaiXA2 to learn more about the trailblazing startups and investors featured.

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In 2023, Intuit Quickbooks released an insights report on the "Black entrepreneurial experience in America." One of the many forms of racism Black business owners have to navigate is lack of access to funding based on bias from banks. The MIEC looks to combat this through our cohorts. Specifically, our construction cohort was designed to be the catalyst to support businesses in learning how to work with prime constructors and securing contracts that ignite economic growth by understanding their current state, enhancing capabilities, and securing capital. Learn more about our programs and how you can support our goal: https://lnkd.in/egyv9VSp #blackentreprnuership #blackbusiness #opportunity #businesseducation

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💼📊 During Black Business Month, we're diving into the systemic barriers that Black entrepreneurs face—from limited access to capital to discrimination in lending. Addressing these challenges isn’t just about equity; it’s about unlocking untapped potential and driving economic growth. 🎥 Watch the video below and then follow the links to catch the full conversations in parts one and two of our access to capital webinars. 📉Access to Capital - The Issues: https://loom.ly/6jUVwRM 📈Access to Capital - The Solutions: https://loom.ly/xlDLZkQ #BlackBusinessMonth #AccessToCapital

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We know entrepreneurship is one of the greatest opportunities for wealth generation, but the playing field is not even for Black founders. Less than 1% of venture capital goes to Black founders. BIA's CEO, Kelly Burton, PhD , summed it up best when asked whether venture capital is racist. Dr. Burton answered," Venture capital is not anti-racist." Watch her complete response in the video from her conversation on the stage at the Web Summit 2022 conference. #BlackInnovationAlliance #DecadeofBlackInnovation #BlackInnovation #Blackfounders #Blackentrepreneurs #BlackinTech #Blackbusiness #SupportBlackBusiness 

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Imagine a thriving ecosystem where you find a readily supportive network. A space where collaboration unlocks a 15% increase in productivity for Black businesses, fostering innovation and growth. A platform that empowers Black visionaries by tackling the challenge of capital access. This is the vision of The Nod. The Nod isn't just a platform; it's a powerful movement. We bring together Black visionaries, innovators, and allies across Canada, creating a strong bond within our communities based on shared goals and deep cultural connections. Join The Nod and unlock the power of: 👥 Community: Find your tribe, forge connections, and celebrate Black excellence. 🤝 Collaboration: Learn from mentors, share your expertise, and unlock new business possibilities. 💹 Commerce: Gain access to resources, boost revenue, access credit, overcome funding hurdles, and thrive in a supportive environment. Let’s empower the black community for tomorrow, together. Join The Nod today! Visit www.thenodhq.com #GoldisBlack #TheNODunveiling #BlackExcellence #GiveTheNod #GetTheNod #blackwallstreet  #EconomicEmpowerment

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🚀 The Future of Wealth: A Call to Action for Black and Brown Communities 🚀 Tune in to an urgent and powerful episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, “The Future of Wealth: Empowering Black and Brown Communities.” Our guest highlights the critical need for immediate action within Black and Brown communities to secure and build wealth for future generations. 📈 The discussion focuses on the stark projections for wealth accumulation in these communities and the pivotal role that equity, diversity, and inclusion play in reversing these trends. Our expert shares inspiring insights on the necessary changes and strategies to foster economic empowerment. 💬 What steps do you think are essential for Black and Brown communities to enhance their economic future? How can initiatives in equity, diversity, and inclusion contribute to this goal? 👍 Like, comment, and share your ideas and strategies below. Engage with us as we explore actionable solutions to ensure a prosperous future for these communities. Your voice matters as we discuss how to make impactful changes. #EconomicEmpowerment #CommunityWealth #SocialJustice #DiversityAndInclusion #RISEUrbanNation

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The recent election outcome is a stark reminder of why building dedicated networks for Black people is so crucial. M.A.D.E.Community is steadily growing into an influential and empowering network for Black creatives, professionals, and entrepreneurs. It’s more than just a space—it’s a foundation for sharing our dreams, making intentional connections, and creating purposeful collaborations that yield real impact. When we support and uplift each other, extraordinary things happen. We no longer want a seat at their table; we’re building our own. In doing so, we ensure that our voices, aspirations, and goals are prioritized—not sidelined by existing social structures that have historically overlooked our contributions and perspectives. Together, we’re transforming community into power. Join us and become part of a community where your voice matters, your talents are celebrated, and your ambitions are fueled. Together, we’re not just envisioning change; we’re creating it. Step into a network where collaborations flourish, and the future is shaped by our collective strength. www.madecommunity.org

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Have you listened to Black Tech Green Money podcast? Our lovely CEO, Damali Peterman, was featured as a guest on Black Tech Green Money podcast with Will Lucas. There she discussed Negotiating While Black, Getting the Compensation You Are Worth, and High Stakes. Click on the link to hear what wonderful gems she dropped for you. Tell us what you think! #podcast #newauthor #newbook #damalisays #damalipeterman #nwb #negotiatingwhileblack #blacktechgreenmoney

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Introducing the Black Founders Lounge at INNOPOWER MINORITY BUSINESS WEEK @ RALLY – a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower and elevate Black entrepreneurs from around the world. This exclusive showcase, hosted at the largest cross-sector innovation conference globally, aims to bridge the gap between Black founders and the vital resources they need to thrive in today's competitive business landscape. At the Black Founders Lounge, we recognize the unique challenges faced by underrepresented founders and are committed to breaking down barriers to success. By deliberately connecting Black founders with social capital, growth opportunities, and contractual partnerships, we are fostering an ecosystem that nurtures innovation and drives economic prosperity. This initiative is a direct response to the systemic limitations and biases that have historically hindered the progress of Black entrepreneurs. We invite Black founders from across the globe to apply for this exclusive opportunity to be showcased at the Black Founders Lounge. With only 20 spots available, this is a chance to gain unparalleled exposure, network with industry leaders, and unlock access to transformative resources. Here's what you can expect: Personalized Promotion: IMBW will create individual one-minute promo videos for each founder, share them with attendees, and market them on social media and other platforms, amplifying your brand's visibility. Dedicated Landing Page: A landing page featuring all 20 Black Founders will be created and actively promoted from July 27th to August 31st, increasing your online presence and attracting potential partners and investors. Media Partnerships: We will collaborate with media partners to articulate the unique journey of each founder, showcasing your story and the impact you're making in your industry. Networking Opportunities: The Black Founders Lounge will provide a dedicated space for the group to meet with VC firms, banks, investors, corporate leaders, and other visitors to the Rally Conference, facilitating valuable connections and potential collaborations. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime chance to propel your business to new heights and be part of a movement that is reshaping the future of entrepreneurship. Apply now and join us in celebrating Black excellence, resilience, and innovation on the global stage. Emil Ekiyor InnoPower LLC (InnoPower Indy) JPMorganChase https://www.imbw.org/

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Announcing our first official panel 🗣 at #BITES - 𝐔𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬. In 2023 Black Founders received 0.48% of all venture dollars, the lowest in the history of VC. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 and this panel will explore alternative funding solutions beyond traditional VC routes. Our panelists possess a great wealth of experience in supporting entrepreneurs to raise funds and build not only scalable businesses but sustainable businesses. You will be inspired and encouraged by : 1. Kelley Frank Senior Director at Capital Department a transformational leader and creative storyteller with 15 years of experience across B2B and B2C industries, blending business acumen with out-of-the-box thinking. Kelley has worked with companies like N26, Techstars, and Universal Music, driving significant $$ investment into great businesses. 2. Kimberly Ofori CEO& Founder at The Bold New Company a former banker turned management consultant who founded and sold two tech companies. Kimberly is now on a mission to help businesses achieve sustainable growth through her Future Ventures, a startup community and fund. Kimberly also chairs the executive board at VOAW and serves on advisory boards for several startups. 3. Leanne Mair CEO& Founder at Benefactum Consulting and bestselling author of Closing the Gap - How to Include Black Women in Any Gender Equity Strategy. Leanne has been featured in Stylist, Forbes, Business Insider, ESG Clarity, and Investment Week to contribute her views on gender equity, organizational transformation, and DEI. Let's goooo 🚀 🚀 🚀 🚀 #raisingcapital #investment #founderjourney #building #sustainablebusinesses #blackfounders #entrepreneurship #alternativepathways #equity #parity

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So proud of the number of ways we’ve been able to partner with Dream.org, including through the Climate Tech launchpad. Learn more below, and apply or spread the word!

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🚀 Exciting News: Mo-saiQ Has Officially Launched! Today, marks a milestone as we proudly launch Mo-saiQ, a transformative initiative dedicated to nurturing and empowering Black, Latinx, and Indigenous scholars across the DC Metro, North Carolina, and Massachusetts regions. Founded in 2022 by Shawna Young, MBA, Tammy Stevens, EdD, MBA, and Paris Kee Andrew, Ph.D. Mo-saiQ is more than just an organization—it’s a movement! Like the intricate pieces of a mosaic, Mo-saiQ weaves together essential resources, networks, and culturally-affirming experiences to empower our scholars to navigate and reshape the world of STEM and entrepreneurship. ✨ Our Visionary Approach ✨ ✔️ Culturally-Affirming Development: We provide resources that celebrate and reflect the rich cultural identities of our scholars. ✔️ Supportive Networks: Through the Mo-saiQ Empowerment Exchange (ME2), scholars build crucial professional skills and collaborative connections. ✔️ Personalized Learning Experiences: Our AI-driven platform (coming in 2025), tailors educational pathways to meet individual needs. 🌍 Our Ambitious Goal 🌍 By 2035, we aim to impact 50,000 scholars, helping them thrive and innovate in STEM and entrepreneurship careers, transforming not just lives but these industries and communities across the globe. 💡 Join Us in Shaping the Future By partnering with Mo-saiQ, you’re investing in a brighter, more inclusive future where diversity fuels innovation. Your support helps us cultivate the next generation of leaders in STEM and entrepreneurship. Ready to make an impact? Visit our blog to learn more about Mo-saiQ's journey and how you can get involved. Let’s build this future together! 👉 https://lnkd.in/eCbavCHA #STEM #Entrepreneurship #Mo-saiQ #Innovation #Diversity #Inclusion #Empowerment #Education #Leadership #AI

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Starting a business? Read below for top tips!

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Exciting news!! We’re thrilled to welcome our next VIP Guest 🎙️Dr. Raphael Sofoluke , a serial entrepreneur and visionary behind the UK Black Business Show , UK Black Business Week, and the Black Tech Achievement Awards. Raphael’s initiatives are game-changers for creating spaces for Black success. From highlighting Black entrepreneurship to celebrating tech innovators, he’s dedicated to elevating the Black community’s achievements and contributions. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! What questions do you have for Raphael? Drop them below! 👇 #BlackSuccess #VIPPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BlackTech

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