Earners of this certificate gain the knowledge and tools to confidently invest in high-growth technology startups and venture ecosystems, with a focus on unlocking capital for historically underrepresented and underestimated founders. The curriculum equips learners to assess early-stage opportunities through the lens of inclusive innovation, ecosystem development, and equitable capital strategies.
This program was developed by the 100 Black Angels & Allies Fund, Opportunity Hub [OHUB], The Links, Incorporated, and UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, with support from Duke University’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center and the Stanford Technology Ventures Program.
Lessons
Lesson 1: The Case for Technology Investment
In this first session, we’ll explore the far-reaching impact of investing in the technology, startup, and venture ecosystem—an asset class responsible for 66% of net new job creation. You’ll learn how inclusive investment strategies not only drive strong returns, but also expand access to capital, fuel innovation, and generate jobs in historically underestimated communities and beyond.
Lesson 2: History of Black Ecosystems and Venture Capital
In this session, we will explore the history of Black Ecosystems and Venture Capital. You will be introduced to the asset class, a history of the asset class itself, and its potential to impact the Black American entrepreneurial ecosystem. Speakers Bahiyah Yasmeen Robinson, Founder & CEO, Project Include David Weild IV, Former Vice Chairman of NASDAQ Emmit McHenry, CEO, KAE Holdings; Founder, Network Solutions
Lesson 3: Navigating Black Tech
In this class, we will show you how to navigate the Black tech startup ecosystem, and tell you who the players (including ecosystem developers, venture capitalists, fund managers, etc.) are so you know where to find the deal flow.
Lesson 4: Risk, Legalities & the Securities and Exchange Commission [SEC]
You will leave this class with an understanding of the SEC regulations for the asset class, potential risks, and how they will impact you
Lesson 5: Early Stage Investments
In this session, we will talk about how to do due diligence, and how to make investment decisions. We will learn what it’s like to make a direct investment vs venture fund investment.
Lesson 6: Venture Fund Investing
In this class, you will learn more about how to invest in venture funds, including how venture funds develop their investment thesis and conduct diligence. Speakers McKeever (Mac) Conwell II, General Partner, Rarebreed Ventures Chinedu Enekwe, General Partner, Aux21 Capital Nick Jean-Baptiste, General Partner, Jacmel Growth Partners Marlon Nichols, General Partner, MaC Venture Capital Nasir Qadree, General Partner, Zeal Capital Partners
Lesson 7: Questionnaires and Terms Sheets
In this class, you will learn how to complete the necessary investment documents, like the investment questionnaire, deal memo, and term sheets. We will walk you through the process of showing you are accredited before you invest in this asset class.
Lesson 8: Accounting, Taxes and Exits
In this session, you will learn more about the tax implications of your investment, and required forms and filings such as the 83b election form and K1 tax forms.
Lesson 9: Creating Black Wealth
This session serves as a broad case for the Black wealthy class to invest in the ecosystem. We will explore affinity-based investing and the role of DEIS in investing.