BFN Core
The starting point for Black aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea or interest in entrepreneurship, but are unsure where to begin their journey.
About Core
This is the starting point for Black-identifying individuals with an interest in entrepreneurship who are looking to learn more and begin their journey. BFN Core is open to all and provides access to a community platform and one-to-many programming focused on “Entrepreneurship-101” introductory sessions (ideation, building a startup and building a strong team) delivered by successful Black- and ally-business leaders and faculty.
Other resources available include ideation and founder matching tools, relevant resources/templates, monthly office hours with access to Entrepreneurs and Investors “in-residence”, the possibility of co-working space at UTM, UTSC and ONRamp.
A select number of Smart Start Awards valued at $4000 CAD are available through a competitive application process for any Black entrepreneurs that are U of T affiliated (current student, recent alumni (graduated in the last 2 years), or working with a U of T accelerator)
BFN Core will help you identify opportunities and ideas based on needs/problems, validate your idea through talking to potential customers, get you idea off the ground, build a strong and diverse team, and more.
Highlights:
- Identifying needs and business ideas
- Forming a productive team of co-founders
- Customer research 101
- Market research 101
- How to build an MVP
- Pitch decks and business plans
Learn More about the BFN Smart Start Awards designed to provide financial and non-financial support to early-stage/aspiring Black entrepreneurs get their ideas off the ground.
