FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Samiyah Malik | samiyah@blackambitionprize.com
Date: April 14, 2025
Miami, FL — In a bold move to close the equity gap in entrepreneurship, Black Ambition, the national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams, is launching a high-impact, 10-week virtual program to fuel the growth of entrepreneurs across Florida. Backed by a $1 million investment from an anonymous donor, the Fundable Founders Learning Lab is part of a two-year statewide initiative to support 500 Florida-based entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, expert training, and a powerful network—at a time when many support systems for small business owners are disappearing.
The program is open to all entrepreneurs, with a strong emphasis on ensuring founders from underrepresented communities are equipped to build fundable, sustainable ventures. Florida is home to over 1.38 million minority-owned businesses, yet the path to capital and scale remains steep. The Fundable Founders Learning Lab aims to change that narrative—providing tactical training, national exposure, and an on-ramp to the kind of support that turns bold ideas into breakthrough businesses.
“Entrepreneurs are facing unprecedented challenges—from shrinking access to capital to dwindling community resources,” says Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition. “This $1 million donation is more than just funding—it’s fuel for a new generation of fundable founders building bold, innovative solutions right here in Florida.”
A Track Record That Speaks Volumes
Since its launch, Black Ambition has awarded nearly $13 million in growth capital to 131 entrepreneurs, helped its network raise over $280 million in follow-on capital, and supported more than 1,000 founders across the country. In Florida alone, 15 game-changing entrepreneurs have already been funded—and this new initiative aims to significantly expand that impact over the next two years.
What the Program Offers
Launching this spring, the Fundable Founders Learning Lab will offer:
- 10 Weeks of Expert-Led Virtual Sessions on marketing, capital strategy, partnerships, customer development, and more
- Coaching and Mentorship from top entrepreneurs and operators
- Direct Pathways to Capital through curated networking and investor opportunities
- Exclusive Access to the Black Ambition Network for ongoing support, events, and funding opportunities
This initiative will culminate in the So Ambitious Dinner in Miami—an exclusive, invite-only experience where top participants will connect with investors, retailers, and strategic partners ready to open doors and write checks.
Best-in-Class Partners Driving Results
Black Ambition has teamed up with two powerhouse partners to deliver this experience:
Codner & Co., an e-commerce juggernaut, has helped over 10,000 founders build brands that generate over $96 million annually. Their portfolio includes success stories like scaling Black College from $40K/month to $1M/month in just 12 months.
ACT House, a certified B-Corp, is reshaping how diverse founders discover their entrepreneurial identity and build purpose-driven teams. Their alumni have launched businesses like Boddle Learning, which now boasts 10M+ users, and Good Girl Chocolate, sold in over 150 Whole Foods stores.
The Call to Action
Applications are now open and will close on April 30, 2025. The program is fully virtual, free to accepted Florida-based founders, and open to all entrepreneurs looking to build, grow, and scale.
“If you’ve got a bold vision and a business worth backing with a world class network and resources—this is your moment,” says Jermeen Sherman, Managing Director at Black Ambition. “Apply now, and let us help turn your hustle into impact.”
Apply Today: Fundable Founders Learning Lab
About Black Ambition
Black Ambition is a nonprofit initiative founded by Pharrell Williams to support underrepresented entrepreneurs building the companies of tomorrow. With a mission to close the opportunity gap, Black Ambition has supported over 1,000 founders, awarded nearly $13 million in funding, and been named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies. Learn more at www.blackambitionprize.com.