The BKR VC Fellowship

THE BKR VC
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

WHY THE FELLOWSHIP

The Fellowship is designed to develop and enable new venture capital leaders from the Black community. At BKR Capital, we believe this is the most sustainable way to increase the flow of capital towards talented founders from diverse backgrounds.

About

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The BKR Venture Capital Fellowship is a 9-month learning experience created to enable a diversified VC ecosystem by empowering the next generation of investors, founders and stakeholders. Our aim is to diversify the VC investment landscape by building a strong network of experts in different industries who can drive that change.

Applications for Fall 2023 will open this spring.

Meet The Fellows

MEET THE FELLOWS

2022 – 2023 Cohort

Mikail

('22 Fellow)

Joy

('22 Fellow)

Timi

('22 Fellow)

An experienced solutions manager that intersects technology, engineering, and data to drive better outcomes for the commercial real estate industry.

An investment professional with exposure to impact investments and the African VC ecosystem.

An engineer tuned business enthusiast. He has strong business and venture capital interests, with experience in banking, investment, and software companies.

Clinton

('22 Fellow)

Elizabeth

('22 Fellow)

Alexander

('22 Fellow)

An entrepreneur, co-founder & vice chairman of the Black Wealth Club. An ardent community builder, he served as a federal policy advisor at the Black Canadian Youth Approach within the Heritage Department and currently sits on the board of the Groupe 3737.

A media expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years experience working with leading organizations across Canada.

A Black Wealth Club fellow, and a fast-rising corporate banking professional with a large portfolio of clients across diverse industries including manufacturing, education, consumer goods, etc.

LEARN MORE

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Program Structure

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

The program is delivered virtually, over nine months. This unique learning experience is designed to educate and immerse fellows into the world of venture capital in two distinct phases of learning:

Phase One of the program focuses on a tailored weekly curriculum that supports the development and understanding of the foundational concepts of venture capital. Fellows learn about the innovation ecosystem, VC models, startup investing strategies, evaluation frameworks and the mechanics of a venture deal.

Phase Two immerses learners into a VC apprenticeship. This phase of programming is designed to create and facilitate an immersive experience for the BKR Fellows to support with the integration of the learning outcomes. Learners are supported through the apprenticeship with expert-led talks, facilitated group discussions and a robust deal-simulation process.

9 Months

Small, intimate cohort

Bi-weekly sessions & office hours

Pitch calls

In-person capstone events

Industry workshops & events

Practical projects & case studies

Social contract

Investment process simulation

CLICK HERE TO STAY UPDATED ON THE 2023 APPLICATION

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are your criteria?
We are looking for the best candidates with at least 3 - 5 years work experience, showcasing strong interest and commitment towards the Venture Capital industry. We are open to professionals from all industries so as to build a diverse and robust network of capable Black professionals in the VC industry.

Do you only take applicants from Canada?
For now, we take applicants from only Canada but may review it with time to expand the coverage.

Can I re-apply in future cohorts if I’m not selected?
Yes, we encourage you to apply again.

Is it a paid program?
The program is free but attendance to all sessions is required to be able to stay in the program.

What are the Capstone events about?
The capstone events are in-person events organized to help the participants interact with industry players including investors, founders, and other stakeholders. We also make an effort to ensure participants experience the different investment hubs across the country like Toronto, Montreal etc.

How are the classes administered?
Classes are run virtually for about 45mins to 90mins per week. Depending on the Calendar, participants can expect between one to two classes per week, usually on Mondays and Thursdays after work hours.

What about the social contract?
The social contract is a requirement for each fellow to give back to the society within the context of the VC industry and what has been taught. Participants would be supported through the design and execution of their projects.