Black Founders Network
Source: https://entrepreneurs.utoronto.ca/for-entrepreneurs/black-founders-network/ Parent: https://defygravitycampaign.utoronto.ca/news-and-stories/mastercard-foundation-brings-naturinda-emmanuel-to-u-of-t/
Supporting Black founders, creating more Black-led businesses and celebrating Black Excellence.
The Black Founders Network (BFN) is an inclusive community for Black entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey.
BFN provides access to the networks, resources and inspiration to build, fund and scale impactful startups. By recognizing systemic barriers, celebrating Black excellence and providing allyship, mentorship and sponsorship for Black founders, we are building a thriving community of Black entrepreneurs from every industry and at every stage.
Applications for our 2026 cycle are now open.
Why BFN?
70 %
of Black-owned businesses across Canada were not eligible for the federal Canadian Emergency Business Account
2 out of 300
grants in Canada went to Black-owned businesses
2 %
of venture funding raised in North America went to Black-led companies
76 %
of Black entrepreneurs surveyed in Canada said their race makes it harder to succeed as an entrepreneur
Since BFN was launched in October 2021, we have supported over 15,000 community members with our programs. BFN companies have also successfully raised over $50m in funding and generated over $45m in revenues. We have been recognized with multiple national awards including the Minister’s Award of Excellence (2022), Inclusive Excellence Award (2024) Globe and Mail Change makers (2025).
Programs and Initiatives
With the support of U of T Entrepreneurship, BFN provides industry and stage-agnostic support, resources, and community to increase the number of successful, Black-led startups.
BFN Core
For those with an interest in entrepreneurship beginning their journey.
BFN Accelerate
Cohort-based accelerator for early stage startups led by Black founders.
Applications Open: Jan 23 – March 9, 2026
BFN Scale
For growth-stage startups ready to reach the next level.
Smart Start Awards
Cohort-based program for idea stage Black founders getting started.
Applications Open: Jan 23 – March 9, 2026
Career Advancement Program
Bridging the gap between Black youth seeking job opportunities and Black-owned businesses in need of skilled talent.
BFN Be Her
Empowering Black women founders and investors to connect, collaborate, and create generational wealth.
Looking for more resources to support your entrepreneurial journey?
BFN Team
ProGRAM Manager, Black Founders Network
Efosa (KC) is a strategic management alumnus of the University of Toronto, where he now manages an initiative that supports Black founders with capital, community and capacity building. He also…
Program Coordinator, Black Founders Network
With a background in Product Management, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication IT, and an ongoing Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation, I’ve honed my skills in agile project…
Program Officer, Black Founders Network
For over 13 years, Jamachi has dedicated his career to advancing innovation-driven growth across emerging and developed markets. His work bridges technology, entrepreneurship, and inclusive development, focusing on building ecosystems…
Financial & Administrative Coordinator, Black founders Network
Carina helps provide financial and administrative support for the Black Founders network. Carina brings financial and administrative experience from several different units in the University including the Daniels Faculty of…
Meet BFN’s Mentors, Advisors and Allies.
Recent news
Community Events
Upcoming
Past
Connect
*Subscribe to the BFN Newsletter*
Questions? Reach out to the BFN Team
Looking to engage as a partner, speaker, mentor or supporter?