Lauren Blevins, MBA’s Post

Another exciting update on the CIVA journey! These last few months have been transformative for us at CIVA! As we wrap-up Q2 I'm beyond excited to share some more things we have in pipeline! #startup #CivicTech #CommunityEmpowerment

Reflecting on yesterday's The UK Black Business Entrepreneurs Conference , I feel incredibly proud to have contributed an article that closely aligns with my mission to use technology to support and empower underserved communities—particularly my own. This piece discussed how AI can be a powerful tool to empower the Black community, specifically by lowering the barrier of access into the digital economy. In the article, I explored the significant challenges we face in business, often starting from a position that lacks the advantages others might have. AI's empowering nature can change that by enhancing efficiency, boosting creativity, and expanding market reach for Black entrepreneurs. This technology not only evens the playing field but also opens up new avenues for innovation and participation in the broader digital landscape. The conference was a vibrant showcase of the resilience and ingenuity within our community. It reinforced my commitment to actively push for technological adoption that can transform our business practices and economic participation. By harnessing AI, we can break down traditional barriers and create more inclusive opportunities for success. I'm inspired by the shared determination and creative spirit of my peers. Together, we are not just participants in the entrepreneurial landscape; we are innovators, using every tool available to redefine it and ensure our community thrives. #BlackBusiness #Entrepreneurship #AIForGood #CommunityEmpowerment #DigitalEconomy

The 2024 Black New Venture Competition hosted by Harvard's African American Student Union & Black Investment Club was a game-changer for Black entrepreneurs! Here's a quick rundown: Innovative Ideas: Aspiring Black founders had a platform to turn their ideas into thriving businesses, thanks to capital, mentorship, and expert advice. Over $200K Prizes: Pitching their ventures led to opportunities to win a share of more than $200,000 in prizes. It's not just a competition; it's an investment in Black entrepreneurship. Two Tracks: The competition catered to both pre-revenue and revenue-generating ventures, empowering entrepreneurs at every stage. Who Could Apply? Innovative minds with solutions to today's challenges, identifying as Black founders, and operating at an early stage. Beyond Prizes: Winners gained access to a supportive community of promising Black founders and resources for success. Past Winners: Previous champions have secured investments and made their mark in the business world, inspiring us all. Kudos to Harvard's African American Student Union & Black Investment Club for fostering innovation and economic empowerment! #BNVC2024 #BlackEntrepreneurs #Innovation #Empowerment https://lnkd.in/dmExsFM

Are you a Black entrepreneur seeking to overcome barriers and thrive in the tech industry? Don't miss our upcoming Obsidi® Tech Talk featuring Josh Olawale and Ab Makalo, two esteemed CIBC professionals committed to empowering Black founders like you. Scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, this enlightening session will explore practical strategies for bridging the gap between Black tech entrepreneurs and the resources needed for success. From navigating funding challenges to fostering mentorship relationships, Josh and Ab will share invaluable insights to help you on your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're just starting or looking to take your business to the next level, this Tech Talk offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to propel you forward. You can secure your spot today and unlock the necessary tools to achieve your goals. We look forward to seeing you there! 📆 May 15, 2024 6:30 PM ET 🎫 https://bit.ly/3UmcODv Partner: CIBC Speakers: Joshua Olawale, CFA, CIBC Ab Makalo, CFA, CIBC Moderator: Natalie Redda, Natalie Redda Host: Cher Jones, Socially Active Training ✨ Attendee Benefits: ✨ ⭐ Networking Opportunities: Enrich your network by connecting with seasoned peers and future entrepreneurs to advance your career goals within a supportive community grouping. ⭐ Insightful Knowledge: Learn how to overcome better or navigate common challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs by acquiring critical strategic solutions for our panel of experts. ⭐ Entrepreneurship Supports & Resources: Discover new resources and supports to strengthen your entrepreneurial endeavors. #BlackinTech #TechInnovation #StartupSuccess #DiverseEntrepreneurship #ObsidiTechTalk

🚀🌍 #Nobellum, Black Entrepreneurship Alliance, Black Founders Network, Federation of Black Canadians, Black Opportunity Fund, BlackNorth Initiative, DMZ, Tribe Ventures, and African Impact Initiative have united to create the Black Innovation Zone - an initiative curated to boost visibility and support for Black founders and professionals in Canada 🎉 As a collective, we aim to empower Black entrepreneurs, investors and professionals while showcasing their talents on an international scale 🙌🏾 Through this collective, we strive to highlight the stories and innovations of Black founders that emerge from our communities. Overall, we are focused on professional development and community building as a vehicle for breaking down the many barriers that Black founders face. This initiative fosters growth, learning, and economic contribution while promoting cross-cultural collaborations and inclusivity in the international business ecosystem 💼✨ It is an opportunity for Black entrepreneurs, investors and professionals to feel seen, heard and represented within their respective industries. With legacy building at the forefront, we strive to be a road map for Black innovators looking to leverage the tools, programs and funding available for Canadian entrepreneurs. The Black Innovation Zone fosters a more inclusive ecosystem, enabling Black innovators to learn, collaborate and grow their ventures both locally and globally 🌟 https://lnkd.in/gkUXq4nt #BlackInnovationZone #Collison2024 #TechConference #BlackEntrepreneurs #ProfessionalDevelopment #Community

This was a pretty good way to start the day. 🚀 A big thanks to Felecia Hatcher, @pharrell, and the Black Ambition team for believing in our vision of a future where the path to homeownership 🏠 is simpler and more equitable, and Monica Wheat, Justin Turk, and Karissma Yve for helping us refine our application. “Congratulations! You have been selected as a 2024 Black Ambition semi-finalist. After a rigorous evaluation process where each application was reviewed by multiple business, investing, and entrepreneurial experts, we believe your venture has significant potential.” “This year, we received a record-breaking number of applications from Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and striving for excellence across various industries. Our selection process, fueled by the expertise of top business leaders and entrepreneurs, has identified the top 250 semifinalists from an array of sectors including consumer products, media and entertainment, healthcare, technology, and AI.” #blackambitionprize #blackambition2024 #sparen #sparenhomes

🌟 Empower Young Black Entrepreneurs with Slauson Ventures ✊🏿🚀 Are you a young Black entrepreneur seeking guidance and support on your journey to success? Here's how you can find a mentor: 💼 Networking Events & Conferences: Attend industry-specific networking events and conferences where you can meet experienced professionals who may be willing to mentor you. 🔍 Online Platforms like LinkedIn: Utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential mentors in your industry. Don't hesitate to reach out and express your interest in learning from their expertise. 🌟 Join Our Community: By joining Slauson Ventures, you gain access to a supportive community of entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners of color. Our platform offers mentorship opportunities and support from experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping you succeed. This Black History Month, let's honor the legacy of Black entrepreneurship and inspire the next generation of leaders. Together, we can build a brighter future for young Black entrepreneurs. Join us at www.slausonventures.com. #JoinUs #AmplifyYourVoice #CommunityImpact #Empowerment #Collaboration #Entrepreneurship #Creativity #SmallBusinessOwners #BlackEntrepreneurs #SupportEachOther #MakeADifference #BlackHistoryMonth #EmpowermentThroughUnity #ChangeMakers #DiversityInBusiness #Inclusion #TogetherWeRise #Empowerment #CommunitySupport #SlausonVentures

Black entrepreneurs are going through a lot! We’re stuck between a declining economy, a bright vision and yet, limited resources to bring them to reality. But all hope isn’t lost. If you're an entrepreneur with a game-changing innovation ready to take the world by storm then this is for you! 👌🏾 Whether you’re a founder or just starting out, the Black Innovation in STEM (BIS) Summit organized by Nobellum is the perfect platform to showcase your brilliance to the world! This is an opportunity to present your idea to a captivated audience of investors and industry experts. It’s a moment that could change the course of your entrepreneurial journey forever. But it’s not just about you pitching your startup — It’s about joining a powerful movement that embraces inclusivity and innovation. ✅ It’s about connecting with like-minded individuals who share your passion for using technology to solve global challenges. ✅ It’s about seizing opportunities and making your mark on the world. You not only get to showcase your idea and gain investors, you also get to listen to tech professionals and industry experts and learn from them. The BIS Summit is changing the black tech community. 💪🏾 You can register now and benefit from the FREE early-bird ticket: https://lu.ma/txuwfw67 If you know one tech sister or brother, you want to send them this link right now, and ask them to follow Nobellum for my opportunity in #tech Wishing you a great week filled with numerous opportunities! 🙏🏾 #entrepreneurship #technology #stem #startup #innovation

Exciting news! UBS has just released a groundbreaking report on inclusive entrepreneurship, and it's a call to action that requires all of our support. We stand at a pivotal moment—an opportunity to sustain the surge in diverse entrepreneurship led by women and people of color, and create a more equitable landscape. By contributing our investments, capital, and connections, we can empower diverse entrepreneurs to thrive and make their mark on the business world. The insights from our recent report underscore the importance of amplifying diverse voices. It's not enough to simply acknowledge the value of underrepresented entrepreneurs; we must actively support and champion their endeavors. This means ensuring that they have a seat at the decision-making table, where their perspectives can shape the future, and providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they deserve. Click here to check out the report: https://lnkd.in/gUvFT8Bx

Introducing the Black Advisory Hub Accelerator Program! Tailored for success, this unique program brings focus and empowerment to your entrepreneurial journey. Specialized Curriculum: Dive into courses crafted for underrepresented minorities in business. Our program addresses specific industry needs and challenges, ensuring you get the most relevant learning experience. Networking & Mentorship: Connect with industry leaders and seasoned entrepreneurs who share your background and understand your journey. Build invaluable relationships that propel your business forward. Exclusive Resources & Support: Gain access to dedicated resources, funding opportunities, and support systems designed especially for the challenges you face. We're here to help you thrive in your business venture! Be a part of a program that understands and celebrates your unique perspective. Turn your business dreams into reality with the Black Advisory Hub Accelerator Program. #DiversityInBusiness #EntrepreneurshipEmpowerment #BusinessGrowth #InclusiveLeadership #IndustryInnovation