Program supports Black founders of early stage startups

Louisville, Ky. (February 6, 2023) – Metro United Way has announced it is partnering with FundBLACKFounders to provide up to $25,000 matching crowdfunding grants to 15 Louisville-based founders. This innovative program will support early-stage startups founded by Black entrepreneurs, helping them to bring their ideas to life and grow their businesses.

Submissions from Louisville-based entrepreneurs will be accepted starting today and open until Monday, March 6. Follow Metro United Way on Facebook and Instagram, as well as at metrounitedway.org for updates and application procedures.

“We are always looking for new and unique ways to support communities that have traditionally been excluded from investment sources,” said Adria Johnson, president and CEO of Metro United Way. “FundBLACKFounders has created an exciting crowdfunding approach that we believe is a game changer in how minority-owned startups can gain access to capital which will in turn positively impact our entire community.”

The grant program will be open to all eligible startups, regardless of industry or stage of development.

FundBLACKFounders is a rewards-based crowdfunding platform doubling down on Black founders through culturally relevant resources resulting in the birth of more Black businesses. Black founders receive 1% of venture capital funding, yet generate $150 billion in revenue. With $1.2 trillion in Black spending power, there is money being left on the table – investing in Black founders is smart business.

The mission of FundBLACKFounders is to disrupt dreams deferred due to a lack of funding. FundBlackFounders empowers Black entrepreneurs and business owners to raise capital for their startups via the rewards-based crowdfunding platform.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Metro United Way to provide much-needed support to Black founders in Louisville,” said Renee King, Founder and CEO of FundBLACKFounders.

“Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth and development, and we are committed to ensuring that Black founders have the resources they need to succeed. This partnership is an important step towards building a more diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Louisville.”

To learn more, visit https://dev.metrounitedway.org/program/fundblackfounders/