Scout programs have emerged as an instrumental tool for venture capital firms to engage founders, operators, and angel investors within their ecosystem to augment dealflow and provide unique perspectives.
Scout programs create an opportunity for those individuals to expand their networks, build an investing track record, and engage actively in the venture industry. Similar to the rest of the venture industry, scout programs have historically excluded Black individuals. Since scouts provide crucial deal flow and unique perspectives to their firms, the lack of Black representation not only hurts aspiring Black investors but also venture firms.
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The BLCK VC Scout Network, launched in partnership with Lightspeed Venture Partners and Sequoia Capital, will provide Black scouts and angel investors with the knowledge, network, and tools to make better investments.
We are no longer accepting applications for the Summer 2022 cohort. However, we've opened rolling applications for the Winter 2023 cohort.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The goal of the BLCK VC Scout Network is to empower Black scouts and angel investors to make more investments and become better investors by helping them expand their sourcing pipelines, increase their ability to efficiently diligence companies, and build networks to co-invest alongside other investors. We aim to create a safe and trusting cohort in which scouts and angels feel empowered to share deals they’re interested in, even if they’re not confident they’re a great investment.
BLCK VC Scouts will have all the tools to source, vet, and invest in industry-defining startups through educational content developed by industry leaders, curated networking opportunities, and deal sharing with the community.
The program dates are July 28 - November 17. Sessions will be hosted every Thursday from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm PT (3:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET) throughout the program. Reach out to our team at Scout@blckvc.org to learn more about the syllabus.
ELIGIBILITY
The BLCK VC Scout Network Program is for venture scouts and accredited angel investors that have made at least 1 investment into a venture-backed company. All candidates must identify as Black or African American to participate in the program.
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How to apply
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis for the upcoming cohort.