Inspiring Entrepreneurship at HBCUs
What is the HBCU Founders Initiative?
Launched by Nex Cubed, the HBCU Founders Initiative (HBCUFI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to locking arms with entrepreneurs and organizations that share our belief that having a diversity of ideas and perspectives is both the right thing to do and good for business.
Through partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), HBCUFI engages rising students, alumni, and faculty across all HBCUs interested in developing technology-abled solutions that close the wealth gap ranging from increasing access to healthcare, education, and financial services.
From the ideation stage to the investment stage and beyond, HBCUFI offers programs, events, financial and advisory resources, and a vast network committed to supporting HBCU founders on their entrepreneurial journey.
To date, over 1,200 students and alumni from over 80 HBCUs have participated in the HBCU Founders Initiative.
Our philosophy
Ensuring that innovative ideas don’t die on the vine because there is no one available to help cultivate them.
Filling a void
The first startup accelerator in support of all HBCU students and alumni nationwide.
In the next 5 years
5,000+ HBCU innovators are pursuing entrepreneurship and developing solutions that close the racial wealth gap.
“We believe the key to combating the wealth gap is by focusing on entrepreneurship.”
- Marlon Evans, President, HBCU Founders Initiative
Our Programs
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Pre-Accelerator Program
The HBCU Founders Initiative’s pre-accelerator program supports early-stage startup founders from partner HBCUs with mentorship, workshops, networking, and funding opportunities to validate their ideas and build a minimum viable product.
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Designing For Social Good
The Designing for Social Good program is a two-day workshop that fosters collaboration among students through an immersive Design Thinking session, empowering participants to develop innovative solutions, and create impactful business models for social challenges.
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Better Futures Pitch Competition
The Better Futures Pitch Competition showcases entrepreneurial excellence from HBCU students and alumni, providing funding and support to innovative startups creating impactful solutions.
Join Us!
Sign up below to join the HBCUFI community and receive the latest updates on programs, founder wins, and more!
Donate
Your donation will help ensure that all HBCU founders have access to the resources necessary to help close the racial wealth gap.