Seeding Urban Entrepreneurs
We bridge the capital gap to transform high-potential start-ups into scalable, investable businesses that invigorate and diversify our economy in New Jersey and other urban centers.
About the Fund
We are a group of investors providing seed-stage capital to high-growth, next-economy start-ups owned primarily by people of color. We bring diverse experiences as New Jersey-based entrepreneurs and successful small business owners, academic leaders, corporate representatives, and venture corporation founders.
The Urban Entrepreneurs Fund was launched by and is operated by the Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (CUEED) at Rutgers University, a top-ranked, internationally-recognized research university; and receives financial support from the New Jersey Economic Development Council.
We welcome investment submissions from entrepreneurs, and corporate funders and accredited investors to invest in the fund.
Our Focus Areas
We primarily invest in Black or Latinx entrepreneurs with a significant ownership stakes in their businesses.
Geographies
Greater Newark Area
New Jersey Region
Other Urban Areas
Business Stages
Early, with proof of concept and some sales
Growth, with some sales
Growth, with sales and profits
Ownership transitions
Industries
Technology and tech-enabled startups
Growth businesses
Our Purpose
We serve as an unbiased, mission-drive capital source for urban entrepreneurs, primarily Black and Latinx-led start-ups. We appreciate exceptional founders, breakthrough ideas with scale, and ties to New Jersey.
We strive to change the fact that <1% of all high growth start-ups are led by underrepresented founders who lag in acceptance to top technology accelerators and securing growth capital.
Our Model
Business Generator
Rutgers has created a self-sustaining business generator to help urban entrepreneurs, who are primarily people of color. We do this by connecting high-potential entrepreneurs with mentors and angel investors that have a shared vision.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The business generator fuels an entrepreneurial ecosystem that generates revenue for taxes, creates new jobs locally, and uplifts communities to promote a healthy economy.
Capital Deployment
Through the ecosystem, we engage with urban start-ups, owned primarily by people of color, that need access to capital. The Urban Entrepreneurs Fund provides that access and opens doors to additional sources of potential investment.
Our Portfolio
4.0 Analytics
4.0 Analytics is the software provider of Mechanic on Board® and Em-CARS™. They’ve created a vehicle management system that can support reductions in fuel consumption and the increasing cost of maintaining vehicles.
ABF Creative
Creating cultural and emotional connections through podcasts.
Backpack
Backpack Healthcare provides accessible, inclusive and comprehensive pediatric, individual and family mental healthcare.
NasaClip
Medical device for stopping nosebleeds safely and easily.
Nopalera
Natural body products inspired by the beauty and richness of Mexico and it’s Nopal cactus.
Revi
Connect with local businesses for releases, rewards, food and fun.
Tampon Tribe
Inclusive, 100% organic period products company.
Techustle
Send and receive payments to support commercial growth in Africa.
Waku Tea
Iced tea that’s bursting with fruit flavor, probiotics for gut health.
Wear Works
WearWorks is a haptic design company that delivers detailed and nuanced information, through touch. They’ve created a device that can guide individuals to their destination, using only vibrations.
Be an Investor.
Are you interested in access to exclusive investment opportunities in urban entrepreneurs, primarily run by Black and Latinx founders and earning a return? Do you want to mentor exceptional entrepreneurs, and making a meaningful difference?
Join us in building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem.
Requirements
Initial deposit of $5,000 (check or wire)
Expected commitment of $15,000 over three years