Ricquel Harper (She/Her)

🚀 Exciting News! I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Harlem World to discuss my entrepreneurial journey from the entertainment industry to launching my tech startups, Project Casting and Livy AI. In the interview, I delve into how growing up and working in Harlem has shaped my entrepreneurial spirit and passion for creating opportunities for others. Harlem isn't just a place; it's a pivotal part of my story, influencing my commitment to innovation and community empowerment. 🌟 Project Casting aims to democratize access to opportunities in the entertainment industry, making it easier for aspiring artists to find their big break. Meanwhile, Livy AI is at the forefront of integrating AI into everyday solutions, enhancing how we live and work. I'm thrilled to share how these ventures not only embody cutting-edge technology but also a deep-rooted desire to give back to the community that raised me. Let's keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible! #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #CommunityEmpowerment #Harlem Check out the full interview here for more insights into how Harlem has inspired a broader vision: https://lnkd.in/eRn_vtXK

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Starting a business? Read below for top tips!

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🚨 Partner Opportunity: Build AI-Driven Businesses and Transform $100 Billion in Diaspora Remittances into Sustainable Development 🚨 We are building an army of AI-driven businesses owned by the African diaspora. Diaspora professionals sending money back home deserve more than just remittance transfers — they deserve pathways to earn higher incomes and create lasting impact. Through our diaspora social media alliances, business network, and innovative marketing systems, we’re equipping them with the tools to grow scalable businesses. Our vision extends beyond AI — we are a unique hybrid of an AI company and a construction company. By leveraging a strategic network of contractors, including appraisers, title companies, finance and mortgage experts, insurance firms, asset management teams, construction professionals, engineers, and architects, we are developing much-needed infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. ✅ What Makes This Opportunity Unprecedented? AI Business Empowerment: Empowering diasporans to launch and scale AI-driven ventures for sustainable wealth creation. Innovative Social Media Alliances: A robust platform connecting diaspora professionals with tools and opportunities for business success. Strategic Infrastructure Development: Tackling critical infrastructure gaps by mobilizing a network of trusted contractors and service providers. Cultural and Regional Expertise: Tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of African communities for maximum relevance and long-term impact. Revenue-Sharing Model: Ensuring mutual growth and alignment of interests for all stakeholders. Who Should Join Us? This opportunity is perfect for: Impact Investors: Visionaries looking to merge profit with purpose while unlocking new markets. Diaspora Professionals: Those seeking to transition from remittance senders to revenue generators. Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Individuals eager to drive Africa’s growth through technology, business, and infrastructure. Strategic Partners: Professionals in technology, finance, or development passionate about transforming communities. 📈 Why Now? Massive Untapped Market: Leverage $100 billion in annual remittances to drive transformative impact. AI-Driven Solutions: Join a pioneering effort blending cutting-edge AI with social and economic development. Infrastructure Revolution: Be part of building the future in regions most in need of sustainable growth. Scalable Profitability: Align with a model that blends purpose and profit for long-term success. 🌍 Join Us in Transforming Impact This isn’t just about sending money — it’s about creating wealth, building businesses, and developing communities. Together, we’ll equip diasporans to generate higher incomes while solving critical infrastructure challenges. #HeroProject #AIforAfrica #DiasporaImpact #BuildWealth #InvestInAfrica #TechForGood #InfrastructureRevolution #GlobalGrowth

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Have you ever had to pivot in your career or business journey? I’d love to know how you determined that it was time to pivot. As an entrepreneur, I’ve faced numerous pivots, yet my mission remains unwavering. My journey started with creating stationery for the Black community, then expanded to launching a mobile app. This path has been filled with unexpected twists and turns. Recently, with an entire line created around new app developments, I’m set to pivot yet again. Delays with our next iteration have taken me through a whirlwind of emotions—from denial and anger to disappointment. But now, I’m excited for the future and what’s to come. Stay tuned for an exciting new update coming soon. Embracing change has become a part of the journey, and I can’t wait to share this next chapter with you all. Want to follow the journey? Join our mailing list for the latest updates: http://eepurl.com/ixso-s 👈🏾 #Entrepreneurship #startup #tech #blackowned

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The Google for Startups Founders Fund is back for the fifth year and is funding 20 Black and Latine AI companies in the US. The fund first launched as part of Google’s $175 million commitment towards racial equity: - Akeptus (Glenwood, MD) provides a smart home energy management system that helps homeowners optimize their energy usage and reduce costs. - Beta Financial Services (Chicago, IL) removes bias in financial services through tools like BetaScore, a proprietary credit model designed to help SMBs obtain loans. - Bountiful (San Francisco, CA) helps farmers and food industry professionals with forecasts and critical insights for speciality crops. - Cambio AI  (New York, NY) provides software that helps commercial landlords and corporate tenants reach their net zero goals by decarbonizing their facilities. - EdVisorly (Los Angeles, CA) helps community college students explore and apply to public and private universities. - Elis (Pound Ridge, NY) helps product and marketing teams efficiently collect rich insights from their customers via interviews. - HacWare (Frisco, TX) helps businesses combat phishing attacks through experiential learning. - Hire Henry (St Louis, MO) develops industrial robotic mowers for large greenspaces. - Hue. (Boston, MA) helps brands source and integrates authentic customer testimonials on their marketing channels. - Improving Aviation (Tampa, FL) provides AI and emerging vehicle technologies to enhance public safety, aviation and wildfire management operations. - InOrbit.AI, (Mountain View, CA) helps developers and operators virtually manage and scale their robotics fleets. - JustAir (Detroit, MI) equips community leaders with health and environmental insights through air quality monitoring networks. - Maverick (San Francisco, CA) helps ecommerce stores create personalized customer experiences with generative AI. - Pagedip (Boulder, CO) is a no-code content publishing app that helps teams work more effectively and efficiently. - Raincoat (San Juan, PR) provides governments, financial institutions and insurers with automated and scalable climate insurance tools. - Sensagrate (Scottsdale, AZ) aims to reduce traffic and decrease traffic related fatalities with cutting edge computer vision and AI solutions. - Sortile (New York, NY) is a waste management system that uses AI to identify, sort and trace textiles. - TackleAI (Schaumburg, IL) turns unstructured documents and datasets into intelligible and immediately accessible data. - Trustible (Arlington, VA) helps companies surface hidden AI risks, check compliance requirements and accelerate responsible AI development. - Waterplan (YC S21) (San Francisco, CA) is a water sustainability platform which helps organizations gather, report and act on water related risks. #startups #entrepreneurship #google #diversity #tech https://lnkd.in/gHUWVF_3

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📢 Reintroducing Black in Fintech...Thank you to everyone who’s supported us and waited for this re-announcement! 💌 Please take a look at the slides in this post, and complete the survey to help us chart a clear course for 2025 (link in the comments below) 👇 👇 👇 #BlackInFintech #FintechForTheCulture #EverythingUP

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Gearing up for vacation, but not before serving in one of my "many duties as assigned": international tech support for my parents who live overseas. Nationwide internet outages in Ghana over the last few days (unrelated to the Microsoft issues, the Marfos are having a WEEK) meant I had to check in for a flight on their behalf. And once their content designer daughter came across this, she simply wouldn't shut up about it. Sound off in the comments: given the contents of the first bullet, how do you read the second? 🏋🏾‍♂️ for "each individual item must max out at 70 lbs" 💪🏾 for "the total weight of your checked luggage is 70 lbs" On a day that's already presenting so many headaches and questions for passengers, this was a preventable one - because there's a way to write this in a less disputable way! (Let this also serve as my out of office: going to hang out with my family next week, see y'all in August. Have fun, be good, and resist despair!) #ContentDesign #UXwriting #WordsMeanThings #WritingForPeople

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🚀 Become a BFUTR Partner today to connect with thousands of highly skilled Black professionals, allies, and influential business stakeholders across the global tech ecosystem.🚀 Additional Partnership Benefits: 1. Enhance Your Talent Pipeline: Achieve your business goals with a diverse network of Black tech talent by forging direct connections with a vibrant and skilled network of Black tech professionals. 2. Accelerate Your Business-to-Business Connections: Engage with global companies and executives who share your values and vision. At BFUTR, it's not just networking—it's about building meaningful, value-driven relationships that open doors to new business opportunities and collaborations. 3. Become an Employer of Choice: Elevate your brand's appeal in the competitive tech landscape by partnering with BFUTR to attract top-tier talent who share your values and goals. Secure your chance to participate in the transformative partnership experience at BFUTR 2024! 👉 Sign up now to become a partner:  https://obsidi.com/bfutr/ #BFUTR #TechSummit #Networking #TechIndustry #TD #BecomeAPartner #BlackinTech #Obsidi

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Get ready for another inspiring episode of "Keeping You Wise by Keeping it Real" as we continue our exploration into the world of Black entrepreneurship with "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey." In Episode 15, Part 2, we bring you even more powerful knowledge and gems from special guests Dontaye (DG) Garrett and Abena Imhotep. In this episode, our guests share the highs and lows of their entrepreneurial journeys, offering a candid look at the realities of building a business while navigating systemic challenges. Learn how these incredible individuals have harnessed their creativity, resilience, and community support to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. We dive into: • The Power of Resilience: How to stay motivated and push through setbacks. • Strategic Growth: Innovative strategies that have driven business success. • Building Networks: The importance of mentorship and community in entrepreneurship. • Cultural Identity: Balancing personal identity with business growth and success. • Navigating Funding Challenges: Practical tips on securing capital and building financial resilience. • Innovative Business Strategies: Unique approaches to overcoming obstacles and achieving growth. Our guests come from diverse industries, each bringing a unique perspective and invaluable advice. From a physical trainer and health and wellness mogul revolutionizing the fitness industry globally to an award-winning author, scholar, and activist whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and advocates for a just world, their stories will inspire and motivate you to take your own entrepreneurial leap. Part 2 of "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey" is not just a podcast episode; it’s a movement celebrating Black excellence and the indomitable spirit of Black entrepreneurs. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who loves a good success story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for everyone. Don’t miss out on these empowering stories and practical tips for entrepreneurial success. Subscribe, listen, and be part of the conversation. 🌟 Register her: https://buff.ly/4dabfza #RiseAndGrind #BlackEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurialJourney #BlackExcellence #BusinessInspiration #Podcast #SupportBlackBusiness #KeepingYouWise #SuccessStories

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Get ready for another inspiring episode of "Keeping You Wise by Keeping it Real" as we continue our exploration into the world of Black entrepreneurship with "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey." In Episode 15, Part 2, we bring you even more powerful knowledge and gems from special guests Dontaye (DG) Garrett and Abena Imhotep. In this episode, our guests share the highs and lows of their entrepreneurial journeys, offering a candid look at the realities of building a business while navigating systemic challenges. Learn how these incredible individuals have harnessed their creativity, resilience, and community support to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. We dive into: • The Power of Resilience: How to stay motivated and push through setbacks. • Strategic Growth: Innovative strategies that have driven business success. • Building Networks: The importance of mentorship and community in entrepreneurship. • Cultural Identity: Balancing personal identity with business growth and success. • Navigating Funding Challenges: Practical tips on securing capital and building financial resilience. • Innovative Business Strategies: Unique approaches to overcoming obstacles and achieving growth. Our guests come from diverse industries, each bringing a unique perspective and invaluable advice. From a physical trainer and health and wellness mogul revolutionizing the fitness industry globally to an award-winning author, scholar, and activist whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and advocates for a just world, their stories will inspire and motivate you to take your own entrepreneurial leap. Part 2 of "Rise & Grind: The Black Entrepreneurial Journey" is not just a podcast episode; it’s a movement celebrating Black excellence and the indomitable spirit of Black entrepreneurs. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone who loves a good success story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for everyone. Don’t miss out on these empowering stories and practical tips for entrepreneurial success. Subscribe, listen, and be part of the conversation. 🌟 Register her: https://buff.ly/4dabfza #RiseAndGrind #BlackEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurialJourney #BlackExcellence #BusinessInspiration #Podcast #SupportBlackBusiness #KeepingYouWise #SuccessStories

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Rubin’s Black Private Equity Weekly Recap: 5 Updates to Follow in the Black PE Ecosystem 1. Grain Management, LLC recently announced its agreement to acquire a majority interest in 123NET, a premier fiber internet, colocation, and business voice services provider based in Michigan. Founded in 2007, Grain Management LLC is a leading global investment firm focused on investments across fiber networks, data centers, wireless spectrum, and cell towers, as well as managed and infrastructure services. 2. Lensrxlab recently announced that it has secured $830,000 in seed funding to develop two B2B healthcare delivery platforms and a proprietary advanced lens technology for diabetics. LENSRXLAB is a joint venture between Ophthalmic Good Manufacturing startups Bon Vivant Safety Eyewear and Tioga Optical Lab QOZB, LLC, founded by Anthony B. Miles, U.S. Navy Trident Nuclear Submarine Force veteran and Dr. Chelise Firmin, optometrist. 3. 5th Century Partners was the subject of a recent article published by AltAssets Private Equity News highlighting the firm’s plans to raise a second fund at $250 million. In 2022, 5th Century Partners closed its debut fund with $144 million in capital commitments, which surpassed its target of $100 million. 5th Century Partners is a black-founded and Chicago-based purpose-driven private investment firm that partners with founders and operators of growing middle market companies that share its commitment to transform the future of business. 4. Who’s Got Next? 5 Women-founded Emerging Managers and Independent Sponsors to Watch: I. Bodka Creek Capital II. HarbourView Equity Partners III. Laurel Oak Capital Partners IV. New Majority Capital V. TGC Impact 5. Merritt McKenzie was recently hired as the inaugural Chief Operating Officer of CQ fluency, a Latina-founded, global leader in leveraging cultural intelligence (CQ) and communication solutions to magnify health outcomes. CQ Fluency is backed by Ariel Alternatives’ Project Black fund which seeks to invest in middle-market companies that may not currently be minority-owned, as well as existing Black- or Latino/a-owned businesses, with $100 million to $1 billion in revenue. Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed the content, please like, comment below, or share with others in your network. Finally, I am always looking for interesting content to share with others in the Black PE ecosystem.

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Excited to announce that applications for the Black New Venture Competition & Tech Master Series (BNVC) 2025 at Harvard Business School are now open! BNVC connects promising early-stage Black founders with resources to transform their ventures into thriving businesses. Winners will receive more than $200K in non-dilutive capital and access to an incredible network of mentors and investors. Applications close on Monday, November 11th, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET. Founders will have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to esteemed judges, with separate tracks for pre-revenue and revenue-generating companies. Past winners have raised over $20 million and been accepted into prestigious accelerators like Y Combinator and Techstars. Who Should Apply? We encourage applications from Black founders with ventures that: · Have a proven minimum viable product · Are in the early stage (Pre-seed – Seed) · Have been operating for less than 5 years · Have raised less than $500K in funding · Have not previously received funding from competition sponsors Winners Will Also Receive: · Community & Engagement: Access to a strong network of BNVC alumni and tactical resources to drive startup success · Access to Investors: Networking events with angel investors and VC sponsors · VC Mentorship & HBS Resources: New this year, semifinalists will receive mentorship from venture capitalists and educational programming from HBS faculty. Apply now to be part of this game-changing competition! https://lnkd.in/eFbvkejd #BNVC #BlackFounders #VentureCapital #Startups #Inclusion #PitchCompetition #HarvardBusinessSchool

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Excited for AfroTech 2024? Let’s Connect! As we gear up for the AFROTECH Conference in H-Town, I am thrilled about the opportunity to connect with some of the most brilliant minds in tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This week, I’m particularly focused on networking with investors, developers, and those in the media space who are shaping the future. If that’s you, let’s chat! Whether it’s to discuss the next big thing, explore potential collaborations, or share stories of our journeys, I’d love to connect. Here’s a question for my fellow attendees: Where are you planning to spend time outside of the conference? Any must-visit spots or hidden gems for networking? Drop a comment, shoot me a message, or let’s plan to meet up during the event. Let’s make this AfroTech a game-changer for all of us! #Illcheerstothat #AfroTech2024 #Networking #Investors #Developers #Media

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Excited to share that I've submitted my first ever coding project, SkillSync AI, to the AFROTECH AI Hackathon in the Workforce Development category. This innovative application leverages artificial intelligence to provide personalized career guidance, focusing on closing the upskilling gap for underrepresented groups. SkillSync AI empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to enhance their skills and advance their careers by offering personalized profiles, AI-driven career advice, curated learning resources, job matching, real-time industry insights, and adaptive learning paths. Through this project, I've gained valuable knowledge in workforce development, LLMs, Python, API, UX design, and more. Check out the demo video to see SkillSync AI in action! Key Features: 🔹 Personalized Profiles 🔹 AI-Driven Career Advice 🔹 Learning Resources 🔹 Job Matching 🔹 Real-time Industry Insights 🔹 Adaptive Learning Paths Tech Stack: 🔹 Frontend: Streamlit 🔹 Backend: Python 🔹 Database: SQLite 🔹 APIs: Large Language Model APIs #AfrotechAIHackathon #WorkforceDevelopment #ArtificialIntelligence #CareerGuidance #DiversityInTech

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