About

The Black Founders Network (BFN) is an inclusive community for Black entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey, created to provide 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

The BFN was built and continues to be shaped by the community it serves. Over 100 Black founders and over 50 Black organizations participated in the BFN consulting process. Their lived experiences have informed the design of this initiative, which has grown to support thousands of Black founders across Canada.

BFN Team

ProGRAM Manager, Black Founders Network

Efosa Obano 

Efosa (KC) is a strategic management alumnus of the University of Toronto, where he now manages an initiative that supports Black founders with capital, community and capacity building. He also…

Program Coordinator, Black Founders Network

Justina Kanza 

Justina supports the growth of the Black Founders Network at U of T in the role of Program Coordinator. Justina supports the growth of the Black Founders Network at U…

Mentors, Advisors and Allies

Featured News

Resources for Black Entrepreneurs

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Questions? Reach out to the BFN Team