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Black Global Startups
Founders
Residency
It’s a bridge connecting ambition to opportunity, creativity to capital, and Africa to the world.
APPLICATIONS
ENROLLED
COHORTS
STARTUPS
What Is the BGS Founder Residency?
The Black Global Startups (BGS) Founder Residency is a 3-month virtual or hybrid accelerator that brings together visionary Black entrepreneurs from Africa and the Diaspora to build, learn, and grow together.
It’s more than a program — it’s a movement of global collaboration and innovation.
Over 12 intensive weeks, selected founders gain access to expert mentorship, global networks, and investor visibility — while co-creating solutions that transform industries and communities.
Why the Founder Residency Matters
Black founders across the world face systemic barriers: limited funding, smaller networks, and fewer global opportunities.
BGS exists to change that.
Through this residency, we unite brilliant minds from The Gambia, Kenya, and the global Diaspora to collaborate, grow, and lead the future of entrepreneurship.
When one founder rises, the whole ecosystem rises.
What You’ll Gain
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WEEKLY EXPERT SESSIONS
Gain direct insights from global entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.
Topics include:
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Business modeling and validation
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Fundraising strategy
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Branding and cultural storytelling
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Financial readiness and investor pitching
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FOUNDER MATCHING
Build with founders across borders.
Our matching system connects entrepreneurs by industry, mission, and complementary skills — helping you co-create new products, joint ventures, or partnerships that cross continents.
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MENTORSHIP & COACHING
Access 1-on-1 mentorship from a global pool of experienced founders, VCs, and business leaders.
Get tailored guidance on:
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Scaling in African and global markets
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Product development
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Market entry strategy
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FINAL PITCH SHOWCASE
The program culminates in a global demo day, where founders pitch to investors, corporate partners, and innovation leaders.
Top ventures receive:
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Investment introductions
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Media visibility
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Continued incubation support through BGS hubs
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WHO SHOULD APPLY
This residency is for Black founders and innovators who are:
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Building early-stage or growth-stage ventures
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Passionate about creating scalable, impactful solutions
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Open to cross-border collaboration and shared learning
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Committed to contributing to the global Black innovation ecosystem
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Inspirational Speakers
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Become Part of the Global Bridge
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For Founders
Apply to join our next cohort and gain global mentorship, resources, and access to investors.
For Mentors & Investors
Join the BGS Investor & Mentor Network — connect with high-potential founders and shape the future of Black entrepreneurship.
For Partners & Sponsors
Support the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.
Partner with BGS to fund cohorts, host masterclasses, or co-create industry-specific programs.
"BGS allowed us to co-create with like-minded people on shared goals."
Buba Manjang
Startup Founder
"BGS allowed us to co-create with like-minded people on shared goals."
Buba Manjang
Startup Founder
"BGS allowed us to co-create with like-minded people on shared goals."
Buba Manjang
Startup Founder
"BGS allowed us to co-create with like-minded people on shared goals."
Buba Manjang
Startup Founder