70
%
of Black-owned businesses across Canada were not eligible for the federal Canadian Emergency Business Account
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?
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.
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.
BFN Core
For those with an interest in entrepreneurship beginning their journey.
BFN Accelerate
Cohort-based accelerator for early-stage startups led by Black founders.
BFN Scale
For growth-stage startups ready to reach the next level.
Smart Start Awards
Applications will open in winter 2024.
Career Advancement Program
Bridging the gap between Black youth seeking job opportunities and Black-owned businesses in need of skilled talent.
BFN Office Hours
Join our weekly office hours every Wednesday at 4 p.m. (virtual) to meet one-on-one with a team member.
Looking for more resources to support
your entrepreneurial journey?
BFN Team
ProGRAM Manager, Black Founders Network
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…
Special Projects Officer, Black Founders Network
With a background in Product Management, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication IT, and an ongoing Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation, I’ve honed my skills in agile project…
Program Assistant, Black Founders Network
Tasnim is a third-year Management specialist at the University of Toronto, Rotman Commerce. She supports the growth of the Black Founders Network at U of T in the role of…
Entrepreneur in residence, Black Founders Network
Aileen Agada is one of the Entrepreneurs in Residence at the Black Founders Network. She is also the Founder & CEO of BeBlended, an online marketplace that connects Black men…
Entrepreneur in Residence, Black Founders Network
Edgar Brown is a marketer, coach, and entrepreneur who builds and scales mission-driven technology companies. Previously, he was a Growth Lead at On Deck, a Series B EdTech startup backed…
Meet BFN’s Mentors, Advisors and Allies.
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Questions? Reach out to the BFN Team
Looking to engage as a partner, speaker, mentor or supporter?
