Level Up Ventures recognizes the immense market potential in the entrepreneurial spirit of Black and Latino founders. Despite their noteworthy innovation and drive, these groups have historically received only about 3% of U.S. VC dollars. Level Up is committed to spotlighting and supporting these often overlooked businesses, acknowledging their significant growth potential. The success of these enterprises not only drives economic expansion, but also contributes to a more dynamic U.S. economy. Level Up’s focus is on smart, strategic investing that elevates underrepresented talent, recognizing it as a crucial, yet frequently underestimated, driver of economic prosperity. This is Level Up’s commitment to closing the wealth gap.
Learn more about Level Up Ventures.
SPOTLIGHT
“When I think about Level Up Ventures, I think about three things. I think about community, the commitment and the capital.”
Courtney Caldwell
Co-Founder and COO
ShearShare
PEOPLE & PURPOSE
“I've always said we are stronger together, meaning that there's a lot of power in community."
Katherine Rodriguez
Level Up Platform Manager
Level Up Ventures
scouts
Level Up Scouts are professionals from across Hearst businesses who share their time, expertise and networks to help our portfolio companies succeed.
“At a time when macro-economic factors and systemic inequities have challenged capital availability for Black and Latino-led early-stage companies, the work being done by the Level Up team is more important than ever to bring about a paradigm shift in how capital is allocated to under-resourced environments. Every dollar of capital provided to Black and Latino-led companies has a multiplier effect across communities.”
Zuri Briscoe
Senior Director
Fitch Ratings
“It is a special honor to contribute to a targeted effort that supports minority-led start-ups and ensures we benefit from diverse ideas. Level Up is so crucial to turning the tide of the unique challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs. As a Scout, I have learned a ton about what it takes to get a business off the ground, and have been deeply impressed with the talent and determination behind the ventures I observed.”
Lyuba Petrova
Head of U.S. Leveraged Finance
Fitch Ratings
events
Level Up Ventures is leveling the playing field for Black and Latino entrepreneurs.
Level Up Ventures’ 2023 Startup Showcase
The Level Up Ventures’ Showcase of Black & Latino Tech Founders provided a platform for its portfolio companies to pitch in front of key investors. The successful event hosted top industry leaders, included an engaging fireside chat and provided unique networking opportunity amongst a thriving NYC startup ecosystem.
portfolio
“Our partnership with Level Up Ventures has been nothing short of phenomenal. Their introductions have been game-changing for us at ConnectCareHero, revolutionizing our content and marketing landscape. Their intentional guidance reflects a shared commitment to fostering opportunities for diverse founders, and we're seeing immense benefits from their drive and dedication.”
Tornu Ngwayah
Co-Founder & CMO
ConnectCareHero
“Level Up's expertise has been a guiding light, helping us navigate through the complexities of the tech world and opening doors that traditionally remained closed to founders like me. Their support has been instrumental in securing valuable networking opportunities, increasing our brand visibility and accessing pivotal funding avenues. More than just a business alliance, our relationship with Level Up has evolved into a familial bond. They've been a trusted advisor and an ‘in the trenches’ supporter, genuinely invested in our mission to revolutionize how people and machines interact, elevating our company to new heights.”
Derrick Johnson
Founder
EncounterAI
