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Wearable Tech Ventures is a nonprofit organization based in Baltimore, Maryland, dedicated to promoting wearable technology and supporting under-resourced founders. Founded by LaKisha Greenwade, the organization originally started as 'Glam Tech' with a focus on fashion technology before expanding its mission to encompass the broader wearable tech industry. This evolution was inspired by Greenwade's volunteer work during the 2015 Baltimore unrest, which highlighted the need for innovation and support in the community.
The organization aims to assist 100 wearable startups led by under-resourced founders by the year 2030. Currently, Wearable Tech Ventures engages a community of over 2,500 individuals across four continents, fostering innovation and collaboration in the tech industry. The nonprofit operates as a global ecosystem, providing resources and support to entrepreneurs in the wearable technology sector.
Wearable Tech Ventures invests primarily in the wearable technology sector, with a specific focus on consumer, healthcare, and artificial intelligence applications. The organization targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, providing mentorship, training, and funding to its portfolio companies. The investment strategy emphasizes supporting under-resourced and underrepresented founders, aiming to create a diverse talent pipeline in the tech industry.
In addition to financial support, Wearable Tech Ventures connects founders with national accelerators and founder programs, enhancing their access to resources and networks. The organization also develops talent through summer camps and hackathons, which engage youth and aspiring entrepreneurs in the wearable tech space. This multifaceted approach ensures that founders receive not only capital but also the necessary guidance and connections to succeed.
Wearable Tech Ventures has engaged with a community of over 2,500 founders, youth, and enthusiasts through various initiatives such as workshops, summer camps, and hackathons. While specific notable portfolio companies were not detailed in the provided content, the organization aims to support 100 startups by 2030, indicating a significant commitment to fostering innovation in the wearable technology sector.
The organization’s portfolio reflects its focus on wearable technology applications across medical, health, fashion, and sports sectors. By engaging with a diverse group of individuals and organizations, Wearable Tech Ventures creates a supportive environment for startups to thrive and innovate.
LaKisha Greenwade - Founder. LaKisha Greenwade is a global innovation leader and ecosystem architect with a background in promoting technology and entrepreneurship. She founded Wearable Tech Ventures to support under-resourced founders in the wearable technology sector. Greenwade's previous experience includes volunteer work during the 2015 Baltimore unrest, which inspired her to create a platform for innovation and support in her community.
To pitch to Wearable Tech Ventures, founders should visit their website at wearabletechventures.org for application details. A well-structured pitch deck is essential, including information about the startup's mission, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders are encouraged to provide clear data on their technology's potential impact and scalability.
Wearable Tech Ventures appreciates pitches that demonstrate a commitment to supporting under-resourced communities and highlight innovative approaches to wearable technology. While the organization does not disclose specific response times, founders should expect a thorough review process given the nonprofit's focus on community engagement and support.
Wearable Tech Ventures runs a program designed to support startups in the wearable technology sector. This program includes mentorship, training, and connections to national accelerators and founder programs. The organization also hosts summer camps and hackathons to engage youth and develop a talent pipeline for the future of wearable technology.
These initiatives aim to create opportunities for under-resourced founders and foster innovation within the community. Interested individuals can learn more about the programs and how to apply by visiting the Wearable Tech Ventures website.
In recent months, Wearable Tech Ventures has continued to expand its community engagement efforts, hosting workshops and hackathons aimed at fostering innovation in wearable technology. The organization remains committed to its goal of supporting 100 startups led by under-resourced founders by 2030. Additionally, Wearable Tech Ventures has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting its mission and impact within the tech industry.
Recent activities include partnerships with educational institutions to develop talent pipelines and enhance access to resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. The organization’s focus on community building and support for underrepresented founders has garnered attention from local and national media, reinforcing its role as a key player in the wearable tech space.
What are the investment criteria for Wearable Tech Ventures?
Wearable Tech Ventures focuses on investing in the wearable technology sector, specifically targeting under-resourced and underrepresented founders. The organization supports startups at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages.
How can founders apply or pitch to Wearable Tech Ventures?
Founders can apply for support by visiting the Wearable Tech Ventures website at wearabletechventures.org. The application process typically involves submitting a pitch deck that outlines the startup's vision, market potential, and team background.
What makes Wearable Tech Ventures different from traditional venture capital firms?
As a nonprofit organization, Wearable Tech Ventures does not operate with the same profit-driven motives as traditional venture capital firms. Instead, it focuses on supporting under-resourced founders through mentorship, training, and access to funding opportunities.
What is the geographic scope of Wearable Tech Ventures?
Wearable Tech Ventures operates globally, with its headquarters in Baltimore, Maryland. The organization engages with a community of individuals across four continents, promoting innovation in wearable technology.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Wearable Tech Ventures provide?
Wearable Tech Ventures offers ongoing mentorship and training to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and connect with national accelerators and founder programs. This support is crucial for the growth and success of the startups.
What is the fund size or check size for investments?
The specific fund size and check sizes are not disclosed, as Wearable Tech Ventures operates as a nonprofit organization. Funding is likely sourced from grants and donations rather than traditional investment capital.
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