uplifting Black Founders.

Building wealth. changing narratives.

welcome

to the black founders table

Where Black entrepreneurs pull up a seat and access real resources to launch, grow, and scale successful businesses. Whether you’re building your first startup or scaling your legacy business, we connect you to funding opportunities, expert service providers, and a powerful network of founders.

Mission

Black Founders Table empowers Black entrepreneurs with strategy, community, and influence to build sustainable and scalable businesses.

VISION

We envision a world where the number of Black businesses that reach sustainable scale in Maryland is proportionate to our population in the state.

The SPREAD

  • Events

    From investor roundtables to founder mixers and workshops, our events are where connection meets opportunity. We bring together Black and Brown founders, funders, and ecosystem leaders to spark insight, access capital, and build a community of support. Stay plugged in because who you build with matters.

    Learn More

  • Ecosystem Influence

    Black Founders Table actively works to make the ecosystem more effective for Black entrepreneurs. Whether through thought leadership, advocacy, or systems change, we ensure our needs are centered in the programs and policies of organizations designed to grow businesses in Baltimore and in Maryland.

    Learn More

  • Programs

    The Capacity to Commercialize (C2C) Roundtable is a monthly founder-focused program designed to help Black entrepreneurs move from idea to scale. Each month, six founders are selected to present their ventures to a panel of expert advisors who offer tailored feedback, pinpoint strategic gaps, and connect founders to key resources.

    Learn More

upcoming events

upcoming events

Capacity to Commercialize

September 9

6 PM-7:30 PM

The Harbor Bank of Maryland Penthouse

25 West Fayette Street

Baltimore, MD

This workshop is designed for Black founders ready to turn bold ideas into sustainable ventures. We’ll unpack the essentials of commercialization and guide founders on the steps to move their business from idea to scale. Whether you're launching a product, service, or social enterprise, you'll leave with knowledge about creating actionable strategies to build, grow, and sustain your impact.

BFT CO-WORKING DAY

September 19

10:30 AM-5 PM

The Harbor Bank of Maryland Penthouse

25 West Fayette Street

Baltimore, MD

Build. Connect. Unwind.

Every third Friday, join us for BFT Co-Working Days - a full day of focused work, collaboration, and community. Whether you're deep in the hustle or just need space to strategize, Black Founders Table Co-Working Day are your chance to work alongside other Black founders, creatives, and builders who get it.

We bring the vibe—fast Wi-Fi, good coffee, and a space where you can get things done. You bring your laptop, your goals, and your magic.

Then, when the day winds down, stay for Happy Hour—because every founder deserves a toast.

BFT Game Night

September 25

5 PM-8 PM

The Harbor Bank of Maryland Penthouse

25 West Fayette Street

Baltimore, MD

Game Night at Black Founders Table is all about connection, laughter, and a much-needed break from the grind. It’s a relaxed, judgment-free space where Black entrepreneurs can unwind, share stories, and enjoy some friendly competition. No business pitch required. Just real people, real conversations, and real fun. Come recharge, vibe with community, and leave feeling lighter and more connected.

How to Be Investable: Building Trust, Traction & Transferable Value

October 14

6 PM-7:30 PM

The Harbor Bank of Maryland Penthouse

25 West Fayette Street

Baltimore, MD

This workshop dives into what truly makes a venture fundable—from the founder’s mindset to the metrics that matter. We’ll explore how to craft a compelling narrative, demonstrate traction, and position your business for strategic investment. Whether you're seeking grants, angel investments or VC capital, you'll gain the tools to present your venture with clarity, confidence, and credibility.

around the table

We didn’t wait for a seat at the table…

  • While BFT has been started by Black founders committed to removing race and gender-based disparities in the number of employer firms in Maryland, it always has been and remains open to founders of all races and genders.

    • Businesses focused on scale

    • Maryland-based

    • Entrepreneurs willing to share what they’ve learned with other founders

    • Founders interested in improving the entrepreneurial ecosystem

  • Becoming a member of Black Founders Table means joining a powerful community rooted in mutual support, cultural alignment, and shared ambition. Membership isn’t passive—it’s active, reciprocal, and deeply rooted in connection.

    As a member, we invite you to:

    🌍 Stay Connected
    Join our email list to get first access to events, updates and founder spotlights that reflect you.

    🤝 Show Up for Community
    Participate in at least one event per quarter—whether it’s a co-working day, pitch session, roundtable, or happy hour. Your presence helps build the culture we’re creating.

    🎁 Share What You Know
    Contribute a service, skill, or offering to the community. This could be anything from marketing advice to mindfulness sessions—whatever you’re passionate about. We grow stronger together.

    • Community: Connect with Black and Brown founders and ecosystem allies

    • Workshops: Free expert-led sessions to grow your business

    • Advocacy: Help shape a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem

    • Commercialization: Hands-on support to bring your idea to market

    • Connections: Warm intros to investors, customers, and partners

  • At this time, membership is FREE!

We built the DAMN table