NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — A foundation that aims to promote and fund businesses run by Black and brown women has teamed up with a grant program to hold a "pitch competition" for New York City entrepreneurs.
Black Girl Ventures has partnered with Jane by Johnnie Walker, a "limited edition grant program" funded by British spirits brand Diageo, on the "NYC Black Girl Ventures Pitch Competition," according to a press release.
The competition is accepting applications from entrepreneurs hoping to participate until Sept. 28, the release said.
"The BGV Pitch Program flips the traditional pitch experience on its head: we coach entrepreneurs, host a live crowdfunded pitch competition, then connect them to community and professionals to support them on their journey," Black Girl Ventures' website says.
"We democratize funding by allowing the audience to vote with their dollars for the founder whose pitch they favor. The live-crowdfunding event is a high-energy, fun, focused, and supportive environment that includes community in being a part of the entrepreneurial journey," the site adds.
The competition itself will take place on Dec. 2, according to the website.
Black Girl Ventures CEO Shelly Omilade Bell "is leading the way to ensure that Black and Brown women founders receive the proper access to venture capital," the release noted.
"Through Black Girl Ventures Foundation, Shelly mixed the premise of the Harlem Rent Parties from Black History and today's modern day Shark Tank Style Pitch competition to lower the barrier of access to capital for Black/Brown women entrepreneurs," the release said.
"Black and Brown women founders and entrepreneurs can apply for this chance to receive funding," the release added.
