In a significant move to support Black innovators, a group of Morgan State University alumni has launched Fund.FWD, an innovative AI-powered app designed to help HBCU students and entrepreneurs secure funding for their ideas. This groundbreaking tool aims to dismantle systemic barriers and provide much-needed resources to underestimated founders.
Bridging the Gap with Technology
Fund.FWD operates as a mobile app, offering a comprehensive platform where users can discover funding opportunities, access business coaching, and utilize a rich database of educational resources. The core mission is to connect aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives with established industry leaders, effectively closing the accessibility gap that often hinders Black innovators.
Developed through Venture for THEM, a DMV-based accelerator and social-impact collective, the app merges traditional networking with cutting-edge AI. Venture AI, the technology powering Fund.FWD, has been trained on extensive data from talks and workshops to provide tailored guidance on business strategy and proposal development. Additionally, a Partnership Opportunity Portal allows businesses and accelerators to directly promote grants specifically for diverse entrepreneurs.
Empowering Founders with AI and Community
Jeffrey Scruggs, Chief Technology Officer of Venture for THEM, emphasized the app’s goal: “Fund.FWD is about closing the funding gap for underestimated founders. We built a tool that empowers users not just to find opportunities, but to get funded — pairing mentorship, AI, and real-world knowledge from our ecosystem.”
Beyond funding, Fund.FWD features an education tab with replays of business panels and workshops from Venture for THEM events. Its innovative dashboard also provides live updates and social feeds, fostering further connections within the entrepreneurial community. Kiante Bush, CEO and Co-Founder of Venture for THEM, described it as “a bridge between inspiration and opportunity.”
A Vision for the Future
Fund.FWD is available now, with a 2.0 version planned for release in 2026. The initiative is backed by prominent partners including Microsoft, Google, Wells Fargo, and The Newwave Foundation, underscoring the widespread support for championing talent from HBCUs. This venture represents a powerful step towards breaking down barriers and ensuring diverse innovators have the resources they need to succeed.
What are your thoughts on Fund.FWD and its potential impact on HBCU entrepreneurs? Share your insights in the comments below!
Leave a Reply