Why This Organization Launched An AI And Blockchain Accelerator For Black Founders
Dr. Elizabeth Shaw, the founder of 1000 Black Voices, said George Floyd’s death was a catalyst to launching her accelerator. She launched the AI and Blockchain program aimed directly at early-stage companies founded by Black entrepreneurs and technologists last year.
The partnership between 1000 Blackvoices and the AI marketplace platform, SingularityNet, promised a mix of mentoring, coaching, and funding opportunities to ten businesses from around the world.
She told Forbes in an interview that the immediate global response to the death of George Floyd was mainly focused on the need to reform the police and justice systems, and that was a message that rang out as clearly here in the UK as it did in North America.
But, Dr. Shaw added, the first wave of street protests paved the way for a broader and deeper discussion around lack of inclusivity and the degree to which racism (systemic or otherwise) constrains the lives and options of black people.
And that’s when she decided to take action.
The AI program was the organization’s second accelerator project. The first was launched in June 2020 with the support of digital strategy and implementation company, Cyber-duck, and Microsoft.
Dubbed the 1000BVA Accelerator, it aimed to provide support to help participants scale up and grow successfully.
During their digital sessions – they explored how startups can conduct discovery and exercises to clarify their challenges and user needs. Then they delved into personas: why they’re so critical, how to create and verify them, map them to a service blueprint, and why they go far beyond simple demographics.
Those on the program were also able to learn how to build a roadmap for their company. They looked at tools, including the Blue Ocean canvas and the Lean Canvas, and how they can help you decide what to prioritize.
But what did the AI and Blockchain Accelerator offer to support Black entrepreneurs?
The 1000 Black Voices program aims to provide Black entrepreneurs with expert help in bringing their own A.I. Blockchain products to the marketplace while also opening up funding options.
The free-of-charge accelerator was open to any applicant that is an AI or blockchain tech business led by representatives of the Black community (meaning 50% or more of the board and senior management team are from Black backgrounds and are making the critical strategic decisions for the company).
All applicants had to show a minimum viable product.
They were able to better understand how to scale their startup and how to utilize the tools and resources around them.
Will these accelerators run again?
We aren’t sure, but I would keep a lookout on their website or better yet – drop them an email.
