1863 Ventures Rebrands as New Majority Ventures in Strategic Pivot to For-Profit Model
Melissa Bradley, founder of the nonprofit 1863 Ventures, has announced its closure and rebirth as New Majority Ventures, a for-profit entity. The organization, known for supporting underrepresented founders, will now operate under a fiscal sponsor—reportedly in discussions with the Tides Foundation—while maintaining its core mission.
A Legacy of Impact
Founded eight years ago, 1863 Ventures has been instrumental in empowering founders of color, providing capital, mentorship, and resources. Key achievements include:
- 5,000+ founders supported
- 2,000 jobs created
- Two active funds:
- 1863 Venture Fund I: 57 investments nationwide
- Innovation Equity Impact Fund (IIEIF): 40 investments in DC-based companies
Notable portfolio companies include edtech startup Lingo, wellness brand The Black Girl Doctor, and luxury retailer Harlem Candle Co.
What Stays the Same?
In a LinkedIn statement, Bradley emphasized continuity:
- Mission: Continue driving $100 billion in wealth creation for “New Majority” founders by 2030.
- Programs & Research: Charitable initiatives and research will persist.
- Funds: Existing funds will operate as separate LLCs.
Key Changes Under the New Model
- Name & Structure: Transition to a for-profit entity with a fiscal sponsor.
- Partnership Expansion: Collaborate with accelerators, incubators, and universities to amplify impact.
- Operational Shift: Focus on research and content over direct programming.
- No New Funds: Current funds remain active, but no new ones are planned.
Why the Shift?
Bradley explained the rationale:
“We believe a for-profit model allows us to scale impact by leveraging ecosystem partners rather than running our own programs. Our focus will shift to advancing research and thought leadership.”
This strategic pivot reflects a growing trend of mission-driven organizations adapting their structures to maximize reach and sustainability. New Majority Ventures aims to redefine support for underrepresented founders while staying true to its equity-driven roots.
📚 Featured Products & Recommendations
Discover our carefully selected products that complement this article’s topics:
🛍️ Featured Product 1: AIR JORDAN 4 REMIX “BLACK/LIGHT BONE”
Image: Premium product showcase
Carefully crafted air jordan 4 remix “black/light bone” delivering superior performance and lasting value.
Key Features:
- Premium materials and construction
- User-friendly design and operation
- Reliable performance in various conditions
- Comprehensive quality assurance
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
🛍️ Featured Product 2: AIRBRUSH T-SHIRT
Image: Premium product showcase
High-quality airbrush t-shirt offering outstanding features and dependable results for various applications.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading performance metrics
- Versatile application capabilities
- Robust build quality and materials
- Satisfaction guarantee and warranty
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
🛍️ Featured Product 3: AIR JORDAN 9 RETRO “MEDIUM GREY/COOL GREY/WHITE” GS
Image: Premium product showcase
High-quality air jordan 9 retro “medium grey/cool grey/white” gs offering outstanding features and dependable results for various applications.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading performance metrics
- Versatile application capabilities
- Robust build quality and materials
- Satisfaction guarantee and warranty
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
💡 Need Help Choosing? Contact our expert team for personalized product recommendations!
