Founders + Fund(Her)s Intro - BasBlue
Founders+Fund(Her) BasBlue

OUR WHY

Despite years of efforts to increase diversity in the venture capital industry, a significant gender gap remains among both investment decision-makers at venture capital firms and among recipients of venture capital funding.
The 30-year average of all-female founders’ share of VC funding is just 2.4% – and has dropped to as low as 1.9% in recent years. We have significant work to do to shift this trend, and it starts now.

ABOUT

As an early stage entrepreneur, it can be challenging to know where to start and to gain access to the right resources and individuals who can help your business grow. Founders + Fund(Her)s Pitch Day is designed to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs who are looking to raise capital and gain exposure for their businesses by bringing together early-stage (one to five years of operations) women and non-binary founders from historically underrepresented and/or under-resourced communities looking to gain exposure and raise capital, with funders looking to advise, support and invest.

Through the bi-annual Founders + Fund(Her)s Pitch Day, five founders will pitch their businesses to a panel of local investors, serial entrepreneurs, and business leaders. Not only do they receive valuable feedback from the panelists and one-on-one coaching from a start-up coach before and after the program, they also have the opportunity to connect with funders who can advise, support, and invest in their businesses. The top three funders will receive funding awards and all participants will receive a one-year membership to the BasBlue community to continue to network, grow their business, and take advantage of the many resources BasBlue has to offer.

Founders + Fund(Her)s Pitch Day aims to benefit our communities through:
  • Amplifying the voices of diverse business owners across Metro Detroit.
  • Fostering direct connections between founders from underrepresented communities and potential investors, mentors, and career coaches.
  • Supporting early stage founders with financial support from The BasBlue Foundation
  • Uplifting and Promoting women and non-binary founders across the Metro Detroit area
Pitch Day Participants will receive:
  • Expert Coaching: Prior to facing the investor panel, each Founder will undergo a personalized one-on-one coaching session with a startup coach. This includes feedback on their pitch deck and presentation style.
  • Constructive Feedback: Receive invaluable insights crucial to any up-and-coming business directly from the panel.
  • Networking Opportunities: Gain introductions to relevant contacts essential for business growth and expansion. Plus, the possibility of securing funding.
  • Funding for Top Three Businesses: The BasBlue Foundation will provide funding for the top three selected businesses.
  • Community Membership: All participants will enjoy a complimentary one-year membership to our vibrant BasBlue community.

Who Can Apply

Applicant Criteria

BasBlue
A woman or nonbinary entrepreneur who owns the largest or equal stake in a qualifying business that is majority (51% or more) owned and controlled by women or nonbinary individuals.
BasBlue
21 years or older as of the application due date.
BasBlue
Reside in Detroit/Southeast Michigan.
BasBlue
Be a legal resident of the U.S. and its territories.
BasBlue
Be a member of a historically underrepresented and under-resourced community.
BasBlue
Have a for-profit product, business, or business concept.

Company Criteria

BasBlue
For profit, from any industry.
BasBlue
Early-stage (one to five years of operations preferred): Company has a tested prototype or service model that is beginning to generate revenue and has developed a business plan.
BasBlue
Current annual revenue: $50,000 - $250,000 preferred.
BasBlue
Formed under United States law and operating in the United States and its territories.

This Founders + Fund(Her)s program will take place on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Applications are live now and will close at 11:59pm EST on Sunday, February 18. If you are selected, someone from the BasBlue team will contact you by March 6, 2024 regarding next steps. Each successful applicant will have up to 5 minutes to pitch followed by a brief Q&A with the panelists.

If you have any questions, please email [email protected].