Barclays is launching a 12-week virtual accelerator programme to help tech startups with black founders, in a bid to to boost diversity in entrepreneurship.
The virtual accelerator is launched in a partnership with Foundervine, the social enterprise specialising in digital startups. It will provide a series of expert masterclasses focused on a number of core business skills, including product development, sales strategy, operations and leadership. The founders will be mentored by and receive professional coaching from scaleup experts.
Over 140 businesses have applied to take part in the accelerator, of which 25 successful businesses will be selected to participate in the programme.
The programme will start on the November 12, during which participants will also gain access to the UK-wide Eagle Labs network and exclusive access to community events through Barclays Eagle Labs.
“Having worked with businesses for a number of years, and in my current role supporting founders and startups, I have seen the lack of diversity, especially with black entrepreneurs,” said Natalie Ojevah, ecosystem manager at Barclays Eagle Labs. “I realised this was a national issue, so working with my colleagues and Foundervine, we have launched the Black Founder Accelerator. Foundervine’s track record of supporting black founders and businesses will help us to make a real difference and I am delighted to see the programme come to life.”
Izzy Obeng, managing director of Foundervine, added, “I am delighted to be partnering with Barclays Eagle Labs to launch the Black Founder Accelerator. Together we have the opportunity to help level the playing field for black founders – building a more equitable future where successful founders come from a wide range of backgrounds.”
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