As we step into 2026, we’re carrying forward the lessons we've learned. Last year reinforced something we’ve long known: economic justice
work is rarely linear. It requires showing up consistently and creating structures that founders can rely on long after a single program or moment has passed. In 2025, we focused on doing exactly that.
- We launched our Volunteer Advisory Network - strengthening the infrastructure behind our work. Through our founder community platform, hosted by Circle, founders now access co-working sessions and 1:1 coaching, connecting directly with the industry expertise they need to scale.
- We expanded our reach to Philadelphia - bringing our original programming PitchProv, a networking activation, to 30 entrepreneurs at DiversiTech. The experience offered a refreshing take on building community, one that levels the playing field and centers authentic connection.
- We celebrated entrepreneurship on MLK Day - hosting a pitch competition that embodied Dr. King's vision of economic opportunity, giving founders a platform to share their community-centered solutions.
- We maintained our organizational backbone. Perhaps most importantly, your support kept our lights on, ensuring we could continue showing up as a reliable resource for founders building businesses in overlooked regions.
Our founder network often tells us what sets us apart is that we show up, on the tough days, through the wins, and champion their vision year after year. That’s only possible because of supporters like you who believe in redistributing economic power and investing in the long term.
Here’s how you can help continue this work:
As we celebrate our tenth year, you can expect us to deepen what’s working, strengthen program impact, and build a solid foundation for the next decade. We’re grateful to continue this journey together.
Keep Moving Forward,
The Founder Forward Team
