Fuze˖Fund

ACCESS TO CAPITAL IS THE CRITICAL NEED FOR VETERAN ENTREPRENEURS: A REMINDER TO INVEST IN THOSE WHO SERVED. (Summarized. An opinion article by Elizabeth Gore, via Inc. Magazine) Elizabeth Gore’s article poignantly highlights the immense challenges faced by #veteran #entrepreneurs in securing the capital necessary to launch and sustain their businesses. Reflecting on her own father’s service and entrepreneurial journey, she underscores the critical need for financial support for veterans and military spouses. With nearly two million #veteranowned small businesses providing jobs to around five million workers, their impact is substantial, yet they face significant hurdles in accessing credit and funding. A survey by Hello Alice revealed that 49 percent of veteran SMBs lack adequate access to credit, and 35 percent cite raising capital as their top challenge. This financial struggle is exacerbated by factors like a lack of credit history due to overseas service and the economic fallout from the pandemic. The Federal Reserve Bank of NY and the SBA report that veteran-owned businesses frequently experience lower approval rates for loans, with 60 percent receiving less funding than requested. Notably, intersectionality plays a role, as 60 percent of surveyed veteran businesses are BIPOC-owned, further intensifying their capital access issues. Organizations like ShoulderUp, Bunker Labs, and Hello Alice are stepping in to provide grants, mentorship, and community support, but the need for direct financial investment remains critical. The call to action is clear: consumers, bankers, and venture capitalists must all step up and support veteran entrepreneurs. At Fuze˖Fund, we echo this sentiment, recognizing the importance of bridging the equity gap by investing in underrepresented founders, including veterans. Our mission aligns with this kind of advocacy, aiming to ignite transformation and drive equitable growth in diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eaRsU5dy. (website launching soon) #fuzefund

Fuze Fund is thrilled to share that it's Managing Partner, Dr. T.J. Breeden, has been accepted into the U.S. Speaker Program, facilitated by the U.S. Department of State and it's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Dr. Breeden's participation allows for the advancement of national and international conversations centering on the importance of equitable representation in entrepreneurial fields and investment. Congratulations, Dr. Breeden! What a wonderful opportunity to lend your voice to such important issue areas.

IGNITING NEW BEGINNINGS˖ "At Fuze Fund, we believe in the transformative power of a well-timed spark. The word ‘fuze’ embodies the pivotal moment when potential energy is unleashed, igniting a wave of transformation and growth. As a venture capital fund, we specialize in Seed-stage investments in minority-led, veteran-led, and women-led ventures. We understand that the right support at the right time can create explosive growth. Our mission is to be that fuze, lighting the way for diverse founders and entrepreneurs to achieve lasting impact. We hold a steadfast belief that inclusive investment practices and diversity are the cornerstones of driving innovation, and we aim to be an incubator for disruptive ideation, a place where bold new ideas can take root and flourish." "Our platform is more than just a funding source; it’s a vibrant research hub and a dynamic sounding board. We share cutting-edge insights from across the sector and celebrate alongside our portfolio companies, learning and growing together on their unique journeys. Our commitment at Fuze goes beyond direct investment. We facilitate this through our portfolio of Venture Growth Funds and active participation in investment collaboratives. But our support doesn’t stop there. We foster an environment rich in educational resources, research insights, peer mentorship, and strategic partnerships. Thus, we are dedicated to providing not just financial backing, but a comprehensive support system that nurtures innovation and resilience." "As our flagship fund prepares to enter the subscription phase, we invite you to join us. Help us harness our collective energy to build a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem! We are passionate about supporting founders who operate at the social and economic margins of our society, and we are committed to uplifting the entrepreneurial ambitions of our men and women in uniform. At Fuze Fund, we are not just lighting a spark; we are igniting a revolution in the world of venture capital!" Dr. T.J., Managing Partner (website launching soon)