5th Annual Women of Color Connecting Virtual Summit Aims to Increase Investor Inclusion

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Newark, NJ, February 7, 2023 — The 5th Annual Women Of Color Connecting Virtual Summit, March 7-9, is an invitation-only virtual convening of thought leaders, policy-makers, and members from the ally and investor communities who want to deepen their understanding of the systemic barriers that continue to keep women of color entrepreneurs locked out. The Summit creates a safe space for open conversation and honest dialogue to help attendees move toward action in creating a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Capital constraint remains a significant barrier for women of color entrepreneurs and founders, who receive a very small fraction of venture capital. According to Crunchbase News, in 2021 Black-Founded startups received just $1.6 billion, a mere 1.4% out of the total $110.4 billion. Latinx companies received $1.7 billion, representing 1.5% of the total. In 2022, startups with at least one Black founder continue to receive a very small fraction of venture capital investments, receiving 1.2% of overall venture dollars invested in the U.S., according to Crunchbase.

“Bringing together Women of Color entrepreneurs and the allies, champions, and investors who want to support them is the driving force behind WOCCON 2023,” said IFEL CEO Jill Johnson. “We are coalescing an amazing group of people. The message to these entrepreneurs and founders is that we are here for you. The message to the allies, investors, and policy-makers is that you must act with intentionality to open doors for women of color entrepreneurs.”

Highlights of WOCCON Summit 2023 include the panel ‘Insights From Women of Color Entrepreneurs,’ featuring three powerful women of color founders who are making their mark on the world: Kim Roxie, Founder, Lamik Beauty, Houston, Texas; Emelyn Stuart, CEO, Stuart Cinema & Cafe, Brooklyn, NY; and Robin Wilson, Founder, Robin Wilson Home, New York, NY. The panel discussion will explore unique challenges that Women of Color face trying to launch, grow, and scale. 

View the Full Agenda for WOCCON Summit 2023

WOCCON Summit 2023 is an invitation-only event. To request an invitation to attend along with general event information, visit woccon.org/summit.

About The Institute For Entrepreneurial Leadership

The Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that leverages the power of relationship capital to create pathways to success for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs and small business owners. Founded in 2002, IFEL’s mission is to eradicate the systemic barriers that prevent people from historically excluded populations from being able to access the knowledge, networks, and capital required for entrepreneurial success and wealth creation. www.weareifel.org