Florida Launches $1 Million Learning Lab to Support Underrepresented Founders

Created by Pharrell Williams, the free Black Ambition program aims to train  500 Florida-based entrepreneurs with a focus on innovation and access to capital

For decades, lack of access to capital and professional development has been a significant barrier for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs in the United States. Structural inequalities embedded in the innovation ecosystem have prompted the creation of various support initiatives—but few with the scale and impact of Black Ambition, the nonprofit founded by Pharrell Williams.

Launched in 2020 at the height of the pandemic, Black Ambition channels Williams’ influence toward reducing disparities faced by underrepresented founders. Now, in 2025, the organization unveils one of its boldest efforts yet: the Fundable Founders Learning Lab.

With a $1 million investment, this new digital learning lab will train 500 Florida-based entrepreneurs through a 10-week program offering expert-led workshops, mentorship, and connections to investors. The initiative specifically targets Black and Latino founders operating in sectors such as technology, healthcare, media, and artificial intelligence. Participation is free and open to all Florida residents.

“This program is another demonstration of Black Ambition’s commitment to equity of opportunity. Our goal is to ensure these founders are ready to compete—and win—on a global stage,” said Felecia Hatcher, CEO of the organization. Applications are open through April 30, 2025, via the official Black Ambition website.

LOCAL SUPPORT AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

The program has already attracted local support in South Florida. The Miami-Dade Beacon Council, the region’s official economic development agency, publicly endorsed the initiative, highlighting its potential to expand and strengthen the local innovation ecosystem. “Programs like the Learning Lab help shape the future of our economy,” said the Council in a recent post. “Empowering diverse founders is essential to building a vibrant, resilient business landscape.”

In addition to the Beacon Council, the Learning Lab has partnered with organizations such as ACT House—a certified B-Corp focused on helping founders build purpose-driven teams—and Codner & Co., a consultancy specializing in e-commerce strategy and growth.

The Learning Lab delivers hands-on training in key areas including digital marketing, fundraising, and product development. Participants will have access to one-on-one mentorship from seasoned operators and experienced founders, as well as curated opportunities to connect with investors and strategic partners. The program culminates in the So Ambitious Dinner in Miami, where top participants will engage with investors, corporate leaders, and influential players in the startup world.

Since its inception, Black Ambition has awarded over $13 million to startups led by Black and Hispanic founders—who have collectively raised more than $280 million in additional capital. With the Learning Lab, the goal is to not only expand that impact, but to strengthen the global presence of diverse entrepreneurs in the innovation economy—starting with Florida.

What the Learning Lab Offers

• Hands-on training in areas such as digital marketing, fundraising, and product development
• Mentorship from experienced operators and successful founders
• Access to capital through curated connections with funds and investors
• A closing event (So Ambitious Dinner) in Miami that connects participants with industry leaders

Applications are open through April 30, 2025 at this link