Why Equity Drive?
Who We Are:
Our Model
We are a registered U.S. 501(c)3 non-profit. Because we re-invest returns, the donor capital we receive is invested for impact multiple times over.
Our Vision
Our vision is to level the playing field for under-capitalized black entrepreneurs and under-resourced youth by bringing together the business community, local organizations and government entities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to close the opportunity and wealth gaps by supporting education for high potential youth from under-resourced communities and investing early stage capital in black-owned companies. We are dedicated to:
(1) strengthening educational access to high potential youth
(2) supporting ventures that are focused on job creation
(3) filling the capital gap as the first professional investment capital invested into a black-led company,
(4) providing management advisory, pro bono resources, and mentoring to ensure the company’s success, and
(5) being a long-term partner to help the companyenterprise maintain fidelity to its social mission.
(6) making a significant positive impact on the communities we serve
We invest in critical early stages.
The seed-stage companies we fund are post-revenue, have a defined business model, and are likely raising their first professional capital round in conjunction with seeking grants or repayable loan funding.
We aim to fill the capital gap that exists for early-stage African-American owned companies, which have a perceived higher risk profile. Our goal is to invest capital that will help entrepreneurs scale their businesses and attract future funding.
We provide expert guidance and advisory services.
We provide guidance and advisory services to our portfolio companies. In addition to providing seed capital and mobilizing follow-on funding, we connect entrepreneurs with industry veterans to assist with navigating all aspects of starting, running, sustaining and growing businesses.
Due to our private sector partnerships, the impact of the capital we invest is increased.
We invest patient capital.
Because we are a non-profit organization, our investment activities are not pressured by a fund horizon.
We intend to be a long-term investor and valuable partner to our portfolio companies and education programs, providing the support needed to help ensure all our investees are successful. We can then pursue exit options at the appropriate strategic time for both ourselves and the entrepreneurs we support.
Let's Make A Change
Here are some ways you can donate: