Black Founders Network

Supporting Black founders, creating more Black-led businesses and celebrating Black Excellence.

The Black Founders Network (BFN) is an inclusive community for Black entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey.

BFN provides access to the networks, resources and inspiration to build, fund and scale impactful startups. By recognizing systemic barriers, celebrating Black excellence and providing allyship, mentorship and sponsorship for Black founders, we are building a thriving community of Black entrepreneurs from every industry and at every stage.

Why BFN?

70 %

of Black-owned businesses across Canada were not eligible for the federal Canadian Emergency Business Account

2 out of 300

grants in Canada went to Black-owned businesses

2 %

of venture funding raised in North America went to Black-led companies

76 %

of Black entrepreneurs surveyed in Canada said their race makes it harder to succeed as an entrepreneur

Since BFN was launched in October 2021, we have supported over 15,000 community members with our programs. BFN companies have also successfully raised over $50m in funding and generated over $45m in revenues. We have been recognized with multiple national awards including the Minister’s Award of Excellence (2022), Inclusive Excellence Award (2024) Globe and Mail Change makers (2025).

Programs and Initiatives

With the support of U of T Entrepreneurship, BFN provides industry and stage-agnostic support, resources, and community to increase the number of successful, Black-led startups.