Celebrate Juneteenth with an Investment in a Black Founder
Today We're Sharing a List of Ten Black-Owned Businesses Raising Capital from the Crowd
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Juneteenth
It wasn’t all that long ago that Juneteenth first hit my white-dude-living-in-Utah radar—admittedly late. So, I’m in no position to judge if you’re still learning with me about the day we celebrate the end of chattel slavery in the United States.
Of course, ending slavery no more made things right with Black Americans than freeing an innocent person from prison after 30 years makes things right. The implications are intergenerational.
Systemic racism was overt even within the Federal Government for 100 years following the end of slavery. The GI Bill, providing generous benefits to America’s World War II veterans, explicitly excluded Blacks. The Federal Government created redlining, formally discouraging bank lending in neighborhoods with significant Black populations—a practice that didn’t end until 1968.
Most of the institutional racism that persists in America is subtler, but it isn’t gone. Getting a home financed in a predominantly Black neighborhood remains more difficult despite redlining being illegal. Only 1 percent of venture capital goes to Black founders.
We must celebrate the end of slavery. Those of us who don’t identify as Black and haven’t experienced the challenges associated with racism in America should, however, be careful in how we celebrate. I would hate for my celebration to sound like I’m proud of America’s history with respect to Blacks in America because we ended something we shouldn’t have started.
We should have done so much better—and I am not personally without guilt.
Celebrate with an Investment in a Black Founder
For Juneteenth, I’m going to invest in a Black founder. What follows is a list of ten companies with Black founders raising capital under Regulation Crowdfunding, allowing any of us to invest. This isn’t charity. I intend to scrutinize the options and pick the one most likely to make me money. I invite you to join me.
Nap Bar
Nap Bar Inc., founded by Khaliah O. Guillory, is raising capital on Wefunder. The company offers eco-friendly luxury nap pods in airports, aiming to combat sleep deprivation. Investors can support this minority-led business with a minimum investment of $100, targeting a 1.5x return. Nap Bar has secured a 10-year contract at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Farm to Flame Energy
Farm to Flame Energy, led by minority founder Will McKnight, is raising funds on Wefunder. They offer carbon-neutral generators converting biomass into clean electricity at half the cost of diesel. With a minimum investment of $250, the company targets the $4.4 trillion global power market, aiming to replace polluting generators with sustainable alternatives.
Simplifi-Automation
Simpli-Fi Automation, Inc., founded by a Black entrepreneur, is raising capital on Wefunder. The company develops AI-powered medical diagnostic and human performance technologies using breath biomarkers. With a minimum investment of $100, they aim to commercialize NASA's e-Nose technology for detecting diseases like COVID-19.
Heavenly Chicken & Waffles
Heavenly Chicken and Waffles, led by Black entrepreneur Marcus Davis, is raising capital on Honeycomb Credit. The restaurant, known for its soul food and community impact, aims to expand its operations. With a minimum investment of $100, investors can support this growth and the brand's mission of creating a positive community presence.
Dunamis Charge
Dunamis Charge, Inc., founded by a Black entrepreneur, is raising capital on Rise Up Crowdfunding. The company focuses on innovative electric vehicle charging solutions. Investors can support the growth of this diverse-led business with a minimum investment of $500. This opportunity aims to foster inclusivity and support the green energy sector.
Odobo Serendipity Books
Obodo Serendipity Books, founded by a Black entrepreneur, is raising capital on Honeycomb Credit. This bookstore and community space focuses on diverse literature and cultural events. With a minimum investment of $100, investors can support the store's mission to promote literacy and cultural awareness in underserved communities.
Posh Pop
Posh Pop, founded by Black entrepreneurs Bailey Monet (age 13) and Harper Juliet (age 8), is raising capital on Honeycomb Credit. This company offers delicious, gluten-free desserts in various flavors. With a minimum investment of $100, investors can support Posh Pop’s mission to provide high-quality, allergen-friendly treats while expanding its retail presence and reaching a broader customer base.
CxffeeBlack
CxffeeBlack, founded by Bartholomew Jones and Renata Henderson, is raising capital on Wefunder. This Memphis-based company focuses on promoting the Black history of coffee through unique blends and cultural initiatives. Investors can join with a minimum investment of $100, supporting the mission to honor and celebrate Black coffee culture.
A Heart 2 Help
A Heart 2 Help, led by Black entrepreneur Brian Coleman, is raising funds on Netcapital. The platform connects people in need with those willing to help via a real-time app. With a minimum investment of $99, investors can support this mission to foster kindness and community support globally.
Moneco
Moneco, founded by Kuassi Jimmy Kumako and two co-founders, is raising capital on Wefunder. This neobank serves African migrants in Europe, offering tailored financial products like low-fee remittances. With a minimum investment of $100, investors can support Moneco’s mission to improve financial services for the African diaspora, aiming for a $2.6 billion market by 2025.
So, which Black Founder will you back for Juneteenth?
Upcoming SuperCrowd Event Calendar
If a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.
SuperCrowdChicago, June 12, 2024. This in-person event at Columbia College Chicago features some of Chicago’s prominent citizens and community leaders, along with crowdfunding experts. Use the discount code “SuperCrowd” to save 50 percent! Watch the recording here!
SuperCrowdHour, June 19, 2024, at 1:00 Eastern. Each month, we host a value-laden webinar for aspiring impact investors or social entrepreneurs. At this month’s webinar, Angela Barbash of Revalue will share insights about moving money from Wall Street to Main Street. Register here.
Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, June 26, 2024, at 9:00 PM Eastern. We’ll host a live pitch right here on Superpowers for Good. If you would like to be one of the companies pitching, apply here.
Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on July 16, 2024, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, you must first become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.
Recently, we created an AI GPT to help you learn more about The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, and our upcoming events. Click here to try it.
Community Event Calendar
Successful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events
The Reg A & Crowdfunding Conference, June 20, Westchester Country Club (Save 20% with the code Super20). We have a few free tickets; let us know if you want one.
How Small Businesses Can Raise Capital from the Crowd, Thursday, July 11, 1 – 2 pm ET: Explore transforming your community connections into capital to start or grow a small business through regulated investment crowdfunding. Learn more about how this type of crowdfunding works and the benefits and challenges of raising capital from the crowd. About our Presenter: Author and journalist Devin Thorpe has over 25 years in finance and a rich background as a former CFO and investment banking firm founder. He’s also a champion for social good, publishing his Superpowers for Good newsletter and show.
Crowdfunding Professional Association, Summit in DC, October 22-23
If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 6,000+ members of the SuperCrowd, click here.
