Fifth Star Funds’ Post

🌟 Igniting Economic Empowerment through Black-Owned Businesses! 🌟 Hey LinkedIn fam! 👋🏽 Let's talk about the incredible impact of supporting Black-owned businesses. When we do, we're not just investing in products or services; we're investing in vibrant communities, thriving economies, and a more inclusive future for all of us. 💪🏾💼 By directing our resources, time, and advocacy towards Black businesses, we're not only creating jobs and boosting local economies, but we're also taking a powerful step towards closing the racial wealth gap. Let's be the change we want to see! 🚀🌍 #SupportBlackOwned #EconomicEmpowerment #InclusiveEconomy https://lnkd.in/gmcVz4g8

Thanks Wellington Management Private Investing for having me as the speaker for over 100+ of your team members. Discussion on entrepreneurship, venture investing, diversity in tech and so more. I enjoyed the thoughtful questions and discussions. Cc: Van Jones , Ahmed Ismail, CFA

Following the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, many activists called for greater investments toward racial equity, especially in businesses, to build Black wealth and narrow the racial wealth gap. Private and public investors listened. As of October of 2022, companies pledged about $340 billion toward racial equity efforts. However, in the wake of persistent legal attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, there have been a spate of court cases across the U.S. in which litigators are challenging race-based business investment programs, including cases against the Small Business Association’s 8(a) program and the venture capital firm, The Fearless Fund. On June 21, Brookings Metro, in collaboration with the Path to 15|55 initiative, which endeavors to grow the percentage of Black-owned employer firms, will host an event to discuss what this proliferation of litigation means for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurship. Senior Fellow Andre Perry will present new data that demonstrates the opportunity in bolstering Black-owned businesses to drive economic development. Then, CapEQ President and CEO Tynesia Boyea-Robinson will moderate a dynamic panel to dive deeper into these challenges and discuss how policymakers and the philanthropic sector should respond to these attacks to keep Black businesses growing in a dynamically changing legal environment.

Support Black-Owned Businesses This Summer: Here's Why Supporting Black-owned businesses, especially during the slower summer months, brings numerous benefits to the community and the economy: 1. Economic Empowerment: Your support helps create jobs, promote economic growth, and build wealth within Black communities, contributing to a more equitable society. 2. Diverse Products and Services: Black-owned businesses often offer unique and culturally rich products and services, providing fresh and innovative choices for consumers. 3. Community Development: By supporting these businesses, you help strengthen local neighborhoods, as many Black entrepreneurs reinvest in their communities through various initiatives and programs. 4. Closing the Racial Wealth Gap: Increased patronage can help reduce the racial wealth gap by providing Black business owners with the capital and resources needed to grow and sustain their ventures. 5. Representation and Inspiration: Supporting Black-owned businesses promotes representation and can inspire future generations of Black entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. 6. Social Impact: Your support can have a ripple effect, encouraging others to follow suit and fostering a more inclusive and supportive economic environment. This summer, make a conscious effort to support Black-owned businesses. Your patronage matters and can make a significant difference during the slower months. Together, we can build stronger, more vibrant communities. #blackowned #blackownedbusinesses #supportblackbusinesses #supportourcommunity #sofloblackpages #shopblackownedbusinesses

Support Black-Owned Businesses This Summer: Here's Why Supporting Black-owned businesses, especially during the slower summer months, brings numerous benefits to the community and the economy: 1. Economic Empowerment: Your support helps create jobs, promote economic growth, and build wealth within Black communities, contributing to a more equitable society. 2. Diverse Products and Services: Black-owned businesses often offer unique and culturally rich products and services, providing fresh and innovative choices for consumers. 3. Community Development: By supporting these businesses, you help strengthen local neighborhoods, as many Black entrepreneurs reinvest in their communities through various initiatives and programs. 4. Closing the Racial Wealth Gap: Increased patronage can help reduce the racial wealth gap by providing Black business owners with the capital and resources needed to grow and sustain their ventures. 5. Representation and Inspiration: Supporting Black-owned businesses promotes representation and can inspire future generations of Black entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. 6. Social Impact: Your support can have a ripple effect, encouraging others to follow suit and fostering a more inclusive and supportive economic environment. This summer, make a conscious effort to support Black-owned businesses. Your patronage matters and can make a significant difference during the slower months. Together, we can build stronger, more vibrant communities. #blackowned #blackownedbusinesses #supportblackbusinesses #supportourcommunity #sofloblackpages #shopblackownedbusinesses

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in history marking the end of slavery in the United States. At Surmount, we're committed to promoting economic empowerment and supporting black-owned businesses. Our "Black Owned Businesses" strategy is designed to help you invest in and uplift black entrepreneurs and enterprises. By choosing this strategy, you're not only investing smartly but also contributing to a more inclusive and equitable economy. 🌟 Why invest in black-owned businesses? 1. Strengthen Communities: Your investment helps create jobs and fosters economic growth in black communities. 2. Diverse Perspectives: Companies led by diverse teams often outperform and bring innovative solutions to the market. 3. Social Impact: Support businesses that prioritize social justice, sustainability, and community well-being. Join us in celebrating freedom and making a difference. Let's build wealth while standing for equality and justice. Together, we can #InvestForChange. Start investing with Surmount today and be part of the movement! 🚀🌍 #Juneteenth #BlackOwnedBusinesses #EconomicEmpowerment #InvestForChange #SurmountAI #SmartInvesting #InclusiveEconomy

#BlackBusinessMonth is a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting black-owned businesses and celebrating the contributions of black entrepreneurs. 🖤 This month not only highlights the economic impact of black businesses but also acknowledges the resilience, innovation, and cultural significance they bring to our communities. By amplifying black voices and investing in black-owned businesses, we help to close the wealth gap, foster economic empowerment, and create a more inclusive and equitable society. It’s a time to recognize the challenges faced by black entrepreneurs and to champion their successes, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations. Supporting #blackbusinessmonth is more than just a celebration—it’s a commitment to growth, diversity, and shared prosperity. Let’s use this month as a catalyst to sustain year-round support and drive meaningful change in our communities.💡 Swipe to learn more about these great individuals! #supportblackbusiness #economicempowerment

Excited to be a judge for Black Ambition. Founded by Pharrell Williams in 2020, Black Ambition empowers Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs to excel. To date, the fund has awarded approximately $6,000,000. The Black Ambition network of founders has gone on to raise more than $9,000,000. Applications close May 6th, at 6 PM PST... If you're building in the following categories, I encourage you to apply. - Consumer Products and Services - Healthcare - Media and Entertainment - Technology - AI Check size will range from  $15,000 to $1,000,000. - Must have at least one founder or co-founder who identifies as Black/African/African American and/or Hispanic/Latino/a/ - Must have raised no more than $1M in dilutive funding to date - Must have progress (working prototype, minimum viable product, etc.) - Must not be a capital intensive business (pharmaceuticals, biotech, etc.) - Must be based in the US To learn more about the eligibility requirements for the Black Ambition Prize, please visit https://lnkd.in/eTDKeASN For additional support to complete your application please refer to https://lnkd.in/ebsg8bNs #blackfounders #latinfounders #venturecapital #closethewealthgap Ron Oliver Rochelle Grayson Joe Hurd Ivan Montoya Carolina Huaranca Mendoza Lorena C Tobi Adamolekun Monique Woodard Brittany Charlton

🌏𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗔𝗩𝗟🌏 At Black Wall Street AVL, we’re more than just a hub for Black-owned businesses; we’re a movement dedicated to economic empowerment, cultural celebration, and community resilience. Our mission is to create lasting change by providing Black entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in today’s competitive market. Did you know? Black-owned businesses play a crucial role in their communities, offering culturally rich products and services that honor Black heritage and identity. Despite systemic challenges, these businesses generate significant economic impact, create jobs, and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. Black Wall Street AVL is here to bridge the gaps—whether it’s through our mentorship programs, business development workshops, or networking events, we’re committed to leveling the playing field. By empowering Black entrepreneurs, we’re not only supporting individual success but also strengthening the entire community. Join us in building a future where economic equity and cultural pride go hand in hand. Together, we can continue the legacy of Black Wall Street, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous tomorrow. 🔗 Ready to explore and get involved? Dive in now: https://lnkd.in/gZmegQS9 #EconomicEmpowerment #BlackWallStreetAVL #CommunityStrength #SupportBlackBusiness #CulturalPride #LegacyBuilders

If you know me then you know a huge passion of mine...and I believe purpose, is to play a small part in building equitable startup ecosystems for people who look like me to thrive.....A lot of us seen the announcement of Honey Pot's acquisition this morning and I want to play a role, even if very small, in making more of that happen in the future. 📖 Larry Horn shared this article with me a few weeks back and today, while clearing out the 25+ tabs I had/have open, I decided to 🗣 MAKE THE TIME to read it. Let me say this first, I am so glad I have a boss who invests in me personally, professionally, and as a founder. 🧘🏾♀️ As an ecosystem builder and Black female founder, I found this article to be both authentic and personal. The data filled insights felt like a punch in the chest yet a released deep breath all at the same time. My appreciation for an article that addresses the complexities of being a Black female founder while offering encouragement, suggestions, and resources is not to go unnoticed. ❗If you are an ecosystem builder or supporter, investor, corporate leader, founder/entrepreneur, or anyone else who supports, wants to support, or is interested in the effect the current climate of the startup world is having and has had on Black female founders and how YOU/WE can all do better and create a more equitable arena for us to thrive....then tap into this article it's a great read. 💎 *Not to mention the articles linked within the article are also gems.