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Founder Forward: Celebrating a Year of Progress and Community
Dear Founder Forward community,
As we bid farewell to 2023, we can't help but reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked upon together. Founder Forward has undergone a transformative year filled with growth, achievements, and a deepened commitment to our mission of advancing equity and access in the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
A New Beginning: Founder Forward Emerges
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One of the significant milestones of 2023 was our rebranding to Founder Forward. This name change reflects our unwavering dedication to propelling founders forward and creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape. The new identity captures the spirit of our community and the forward momentum we collectively strive for. |
Leadership for a New Frontier
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This year, we welcomed a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead Founder Forward into uncharted territories. Dr. Lisa-Marie Pierre's passion for our mission and commitment to fostering a community that empowers Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and women founders sets the stage for an exciting future. With her guidance, we are poised to reach new heights. |
Cohorts that Define Impact
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This year we took big strides and our community grew by launching and successfully running several impactful cohorts throughout the year deploying $120,000 in unrestricted capital and over 180 hours of pro bono business advising.
These cohorts have not only fostered a sense of community but have also provided invaluable resources and support to diverse founders.
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Celebrating Our Founders
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As we look back on the achievements of Founder Forward in 2023, it's crucial to recognize that our success is woven into the success and work of the incredible founders we serve. Without their tenacity, ingenuity, and commitment to creating a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem, Founder Forward would not be what it is today. Check out our Founder Directory to connect with their businesses and network! |
What’s to Come
ScaleUp is back!
ScaleUp is back! ScaleUp is a program for diverse start-ups at all stages that provides participants with the opportunity to learn or get a refresher on foundational business concepts that can set them up for success and growth. Through workshops, roundtables, and other networking opportunities with subject matter experts across an array of industries, founders will have the chance to ask questions, hear leading practices, and apply concepts to their businesses.
The program will take place between January and July. Each week, you will be invited to a facilitated session hosted by a team from Deloitte. During these sessions, you will be able to ask questions about the application of leading practices to your business needs and learn from other start-ups on how they are tackling similar issues. Topics will include:
- Product Development
- Strategy
- Marketing
- From Storytelling to Fundraising
- Operations
This program is brought to start-ups free of charge through our partnership with Deloitte. If you are interested in participating in the ScaleUp program, please fill out this application. Please add as much detail as possible on your business as your responses will be used to tailor the workshops for the program. The survey closes on January 5, 2024.
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As we approach the holiday season, Founder Forward extends warm wishes to each member of our community. May this holiday season bring joy, reflection, and a renewed sense of purpose. Together, let's carry advocacy and empowerment into the new year, as we continue our mission to build a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial future.
Keep moving forward,
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