BLCK VC Launches Black Venture Institute to Empower Black Investors
Addressing the Diversity Gap in Venture Capital
The venture capital landscape has long struggled with diversity, with Black founders and investors significantly underrepresented. In response, BLCK VC, in collaboration with Operator Collective, Salesforce Ventures, and Berkeley Haas School of Business, has launched the Black Venture Institute—an educational initiative designed to train Black professionals in venture investing.
Key Objectives of the Black Venture Institute
- Train 300 Black operators over three years to become angel investors and advisors.
- Demystify venture capital by providing structured education on industry fundamentals.
- Expand access to closed networks that have historically excluded Black professionals.
Why This Initiative Matters
Frederik Groce, Principal at Storm Ventures and BLCK VC Co-Founder, highlights the systemic barriers:
“Closed networks have perpetuated the lack of access for the Black community. The Black Venture Institute is a structural solution to equip Black technologists with the knowledge to engage in venture capital—whether as scouts, LPs, or angel investors.”
Industry Support and Commitments
- Operator Collective: Focuses on creating an inclusive curriculum to teach venture investing basics.
- Salesforce Ventures: Aligns with its $100M Impact Fund, emphasizing social justice and equitable access.
The Stark Reality of Funding Disparities
A 2018 Harlem Capital Report revealed:
- Only 105 Black-founded startups secured $1M+ in funding from 2000–2018.
- 81% of VC firms had no Black investors, underscoring the urgent need for change.
A Call for Systemic Change
Leyla Seka of Operator Collective emphasizes:
“Some learn venture capital through osmosis, while others need a structured pathway. This initiative bridges that gap.”
Salesforce Ventures adds:
“Without intentional action, we risk repeating the same exclusionary cycles. Accessible knowledge and networks are key to empowering Black innovators.”
Looking Ahead
The Black Venture Institute represents a critical step toward equity in venture capital. By fostering education, access, and representation, it aims to reshape an industry long overdue for change.
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