Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
BEA Venture Fund, officially known as the Black Economic Alliance Entrepreneurs Fund LP, was established in May 2021. The fund's mission is to support founders who have historically lacked access to capital and opportunities, particularly focusing on those from underrepresented backgrounds. Initially aimed at Black-led startups, the fund has broadened its scope to include a wider range of diverse entrepreneurs.
Currently, BEA Venture Fund manages approximately $29 million in assets under management (AUM) and has made investments in eight companies. The fund is based in the United States and is affiliated with the Black Economic Alliance, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to economic prosperity for the Black community. The fund's commitment to addressing the wealth gap is reflected in its investment strategy and portfolio.
BEA Venture Fund invests between $1 million and $3 million in companies at the seed+ to Series B stages. The fund's investment strategy is built around four key pillars: financial inclusion, inclusive climate, health and wellness, and narrative change. These pillars guide the fund's focus on sectors that aim to disrupt existing industries and promote sustainable communities.
The fund targets companies that are innovating in financial services, healthcare, climate solutions, and media or cultural industries. BEA Venture Fund seeks to partner with founders who are not only addressing market needs but also contributing to social impact. The geographic focus is primarily on the United States, where the fund aims to make a significant difference in the entrepreneurial landscape.
BEA Venture Fund has invested in a diverse array of companies that align with its mission of supporting underrepresented founders. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects the fund's commitment to investing in sectors that promote health, sustainability, and financial inclusion.
Melissa Bradley: General Partner. Melissa has extensive experience in venture capital and is widely respected in impact and diverse founder circles. She joined BEA Venture Fund around mid-2024 and has a strong track record of creating deals for underserved entrepreneurs.
Christina Whatley: Partner & Head of Portfolio Engagement. Christina plays a crucial role in engaging with portfolio companies and ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive.
Evelysse Vargas: Partner. Evelysse brings valuable expertise to the team, focusing on investment strategies that align with the fund's mission.
Maeva Kazandjian: Investment Associate. Maeva supports the investment team in identifying and evaluating potential portfolio companies.
Tia Breakley: Chief Strategic Development Officer and Chief Governance Officer, Blue Meridian Partners. Tia brings governance expertise to the board.
David Ibnale: Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Advance Venture Partners. David contributes his extensive venture capital experience to the board.
Charles Phillips: Managing Partner and Co-Founder, Recognize and Co-Chair, Black Economic Alliance. Charles is instrumental in guiding the fund's strategic direction.
Kneeland Youngblood: Founding Partner and Chairman, Pharos Capital. Kneeland provides valuable insights from his extensive background in venture capital.
To pitch BEA Venture Fund, founders should use the [Company Intake Form](https://beaventurefund.com/company-intake-form/) available on their website. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup aligns with the fund's investment focus on financial inclusion, health, and sustainability.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
As of March 2025, BEA Venture Fund has raised approximately $29 million towards its target fund size of $50 million. The fund is actively fundraising, with a significant commitment of $20 million from Wells Fargo & Co. over five years, which serves as an anchor for the fund's capital base.
In 2024, Melissa Bradley joined as General Partner, bringing her extensive experience in venture capital and a focus on supporting underserved entrepreneurs. The fund has maintained a low profile in response to national DEI rollback pressures, particularly following the Supreme Court's decisions impacting diversity initiatives.
What are BEA Venture Fund's investment criteria?
BEA Venture Fund invests in seed+ to Series B companies, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, climate, and financial inclusion. The fund typically invests between $1 million and $3 million.
How can I pitch to BEA Venture Fund?
Founders can submit their pitch through the [Company Intake Form](https://beaventurefund.com/company-intake-form/) or via email at info@beaventurefund.com. The fund encourages detailed presentations that align with their investment focus.
What makes BEA Venture Fund different from other investors?
BEA Venture Fund is dedicated to closing the wealth gap by investing in overlooked and underserved founders, particularly those from Black-led startups. Their focus on financial inclusion and narrative change sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of BEA Venture Fund?
The fund primarily invests in companies based in the United States, targeting entrepreneurs who are often overlooked in traditional funding environments.
What kind of support does BEA Venture Fund provide to portfolio companies?
In addition to capital, BEA Venture Fund offers strategic support, leveraging its network and expertise to help founders navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
What is the fund size and how much has been raised so far?
BEA Venture Fund has a target fund size of $50 million and has raised approximately $29 million as of March 2025, with ongoing fundraising efforts.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.