BFN Core
The starting point for Black aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea or interest in entrepreneurship, but are unsure where to begin their journey.
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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.
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