watch them pitch

The Yale Black Venture Summit pitch competition will award $10,000 (1st place CT-based business) and $10,000 (1st place non-region-independent) in non-dilutive capital to Black-owned startups or startups that uplift the Black community.

6 finalist companies will pitch for a panel of judges who will select the winner.

Apply to become a finalist

2025 YBVS PITCH PRIZE FINALISTS

2024 YBVS PITCH PRIZE FINALISTS

thank you

This was the most competitive Yale Black Venture Summit pitch prize application yet, and our selection committee of Yale affiliates and venture capitalists made their decisions with careful deliberation.

We regret that all founders who applied are not able to participate and this decision in no way is a reflection of the value of their ventures. All founders who applied are encouraged to attend the summit with us on April 26th.

Below are some resources for finding capital for your venture.

resources for founders seeking capital

  • Learn about Yale’s ecosystem supporting Black entrepreneurs. Be part of this vibrant gathering that sets the stage for innovation and community empowerment. Register here.

  • Are you based in CT? Apply for funding with the New Haven Greater Community Foundation here.

  • Unlock your startup's potential with our Venture Launch Program. Apply now to receive support, funding, and mentorship to realize your vision. Eligible Founders receive access to a $5k move-forward grant and the accelerator culminates in a pitch competition for funding.

  • Connecticut is looking to invest in new and diverse ideas, people, and industries in Connecticut through its $50 million Future Fund. Each year, to help cement Connecticut’s reputation as a tech hub where diverse talent thrives, the fund selects early-stage companies for investments of $250,000 to $1 million each; funded companies will also receive strategic support from our experienced team. The fund is industry agnostic, but diversity at the board and executive level is crucial. Learn more about the first-of-its-kind fund in CT. Learn more here.

  • Is your venture Africa-focused? The Yale Africa Startup Review student and alumni-led initiative featuring founders and startups shaping the future of Africa with entrepreneurship. Sign up for their mailing list by scrolling at the bottom of the page and be notified when nominations are open.

  • Due this Sunday 4/21!!! Yale Innovation Summit Venture Application, $350K in prizes & awards. Yale faculty, students, alumni, and Connecticut-based innovators are encouraged to submit ideas in the areas of biotech, climate, arts, health, and technology.

  • “What would our world look like if Black and Hispanic innovators were given the access, guidance, and support needed to excel, uninterrupted?” Black Ambition seeks to support entrepreneurs to excel. Apply for the 2024 Pitch Competition and join a remarkable community & ecosystem.

Register