Monday, May 9, 2011

Comcast Launches Minority Entrepreneur Accelerator Program

Comcast Interactive Capital, the venture capital affiliate of Comcast Corporation, one of the world's leading media, entertainment and communications companies, announced that is has partnered with DreamIt Ventures, the technology accelerator for entrepreneurs, to provide seed funding, training, mentoring and other benefits to five minority-led startups through DreamIt's accelerator program.

The partnership with DreamIt, called the Minority Entrepreneur Accelerator Program (MEAP), is Comcast Interactive Capital's first investment initiative from the $20 million fund created by Comcast as part of the NBCUniversal transaction that is committed to expanding opportunities for minority entrepreneurs.

Comcast Interactive Capital and DreamIt are now accepting applications and will select five minority-led startups to participate in DreamIt's three-month accelerator program taking place in Philadelphia this fall. The deadline for applications is July 8th and the program will commence on September 9th.

Comcast Interactive Capital and DreamIt also announced today that William Crowder will serve as Managing Director responsible for overseeing and operating MEAP. Mr. Crowder founded Growth Strategy Advisors, a strategy consulting and business development firm, and previously served in a variety of business development and strategic planning roles at AOL.

MEAP will provide minority entrepreneurs with the opportunity to engage in an intensive, company-building experience. Applicants who are accepted into MEAP will be a part of DreamIt's broader Fall 2011 initiative in Philadelphia and will be offered the opportunity to learn from, and be mentored by, recognized experts in marketing, brand building, business development, financial modeling, business plans, distribution and customer acquisitions.

In addition, they will be provided with office space, working alongside the other startups selected and be provided with donated legal, accounting and administrative help. At the end of the three-month period, the startups will have the opportunity to pitch to venture capital and angel investors at a demo day in Philadelphia to secure further funding to create a sustainable business.

For details on how to submit an application for the Comcast Minority Entrepreneur Accelerator Program, please visit the DreamIt website at www.dreamitventures.com/about/Comcast-MEAP.php

Want more tips, strategies and resources? Purchase Dante Lee's new book "Black Business Secrets" at www.BlackBusinessSecrets.com

No comments:

Post a Comment