The Bridgetower Impact Fund is a trailblazing impact fund dedicated to incubating and investing in the innovative ventures of diverse student founders at the University of Cambridge.
We are committed to championing entrepreneurial endeavours and impactful initiatives spearheaded by students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds within our esteemed institution. Through strategic investments and personalised incubation, we serve as catalysts for growth and agents of tangible change.
Our Why
Over the last 25 years, less than 10% of venture capital dollars have gone to Black, Latinx, South East Asian, Muslim, and women entrepreneurs. For women of colour, the figures are even lower, with Black women receiving less than 0.5% highlighting significant underrepresentation in access to capital.
The lack of funding for diverse founders stems from a range of issues: historical discrimination, unconscious bias, wealth disparities, and limited access to influential networks. Systemic barriers, such as discriminatory lending practices, continue to prevent many underrepresented entrepreneurs from accessing vital resources.
Founders from diverse backgrounds often have smaller networks, limiting their access to investors and mentors. Unconscious bias in investment decisions further undervalues or overlooks the innovation of these entrepreneurs. Wealth disparities and stringent credit requirements create additional hurdles in securing funding.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from policymakers, financial institutions, and venture capital firms. Initiatives like the Bridgetower Impact Fund are critical for offering capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities, fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Our mission is to bridge the capital gap and unlock the potential of diverse entrepreneurial talent, empowering innovators from all backgrounds to thrive.
