About Us
We are a startup accelerator & social enterprise providing comprehensive support for early-stage HBCU entrepreneurs through grants, mentorship, and resources.
Access
Non-dilutive grants and funding opportunities for HBCU entrepreneurs
Mentorship
1-on-1 guidance from VCs and C-Suite executives
Community
Weekly workshops and networking opportunities
Our Mission
To bridge the gap between HBCU entrepreneurial talent and funding opportunities, creating pathways for success and economic empowerment within our communities.
What We Do
- ✓Provide non-dilutive funding to HBCU startups
- ✓Connect founders with industry mentors
- ✓Host pitch competitions and showcase events
Our Impact
- ✓Funded 20+ HBCU entrepreneurs
- ✓450+ event attendees from the HBCU community
- ✓Partnerships with 30+ organizations and sponsors
Follow Our Journey
HBCU All-Stars Accelerator
Our premier program designed to identify, fund, and support the most promising HBCU entrepreneurs.
Student and Alumni Track
- 🎓Current HBCU Students and Alumni
- 💡Early-Stage Ideas & Growth Stage Ventures
- 💰Access up to $5000 in Non-Dilutive Funding
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MVP Mentors
- 👨🎓Access to Industry Experts
- 🚀VC/C-Suite Guidance for Growth
- 💼Passion for Coaching and Scaling
Program Benefits
1Weekly Sessions
Interactive workshops focused on business fundamentals and growth strategies
21:1 Mentorship
Personalized guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders
3Demo Day
Opportunity to pitch to investors and showcase your venture
Next cohort begins Summer 2025
Introducing Fund.FWD
Your Gateway to HBCU Innovation & Funding
Empowering HBCU Innovation
Fund.FWD is a mobile platform specifically designed to connect HBCU students and alumni with educational resources and funding opportunities to fuel their entrepreneurial journey.
Learn
Access comprehensive educational content on entrepreneurship and innovation
Fund
Discover grants, scholarships, and investment opportunities for your ventures
Fund.FWD bridges the resource gap for HBCU entrepreneurs by providing a centralized platform for knowledge and capital access.
App Features
Educational Resources
Access expert-led video courses, interactive learning modules, and downloadable resources designed specifically for HBCU entrepreneurs.
Funding Opportunities
Discover grants, scholarships, and investment opportunities tailored for HBCU entrepreneurs and innovators. Get matched with the right funding for your stage.
Key Features
Smart Dashboard
Access latest news and updates from Venture 4 THEM in one central location
Funding Database
Discover fellowships, accelerators, grants, and loans tailored for HBCU entrepreneurs
Video Education
Access our library of panels, Founder Fridays, pitch competitions, and workshops
Ready to Launch Your Future?
Join the Fund.FWD waitlist today and gain early access to exclusive resources and opportunities
Join the WaitlistComing Soon to App Store & Google Play
HBCUNIVERSE
SUMMIT 2025
IMPACT REPORT
February 8, 2025 • Morgan State University
Highlighting HBCU Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Organized by Venture for THEM & Think PGC
900+
Registered Attendees
30+
Summit Sponsors & Partners
$10k+
Student/Alumni Funding
EXPERIENCE SURVEY
Return Rate
Would Recommend
Sponsor Return
SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS
Key Activities
- •Panels with industry experts
- •Workshops (AI, Tech, Finance)
- •$2,500 Pitch Competition
- •Resource Expo & Recruiting
- •$5,000 Scholarship Giveaway
- •$3,000 in student prizes
Attendees & Participants
- •900+ Registered attendees
- •500+ In-person attendees
- •20+ Guest speakers and industry leaders
- •30+ Summit sponsors & community partners
- •10+ Companies hiring for internships & full-time roles
Financial Impact
Over $10,000+ provided in scholarships and pitch competitions:
Impact Report - Full PDF
TESTIMONIALS
"The event felt like a homecoming for scholars, future change-makers, and innovative professionals."
— Cara Johnson-Graves
Founder Expo
"This was my first summit, and I left feeling super refreshed! It was ideal for students and young professionals."
— Adaora Lee
Student
MEDIA COVERAGE & CONTENT
2025 ROADMAP & UPCOMING EVENTS
Mid-Atlantic Scholarship Panel & Pitch @ Melanincon Conference in Washington, DC
Giving away $10K+ in HBCU scholarships and prizes
South Eastern Scholarship Panel & Pitch @ Render 2025 Conference in Atlanta
Giving away $10K+ in HBCU scholarships and prizes
HBCUniverse Fall Conference
Bowie State University Fall Conference Collaboration
AfroTech Conference Event in Houston
View Complete Impact Report
Our Dream Team
Meet the visionaries driving our mission to empower HBCU entrepreneurs.
Connect With Us
We're excited to hear from you! Reach out to discuss partnership opportunities, learn more about our programs, or join our community of HBCU entrepreneurs.
Email Us