“American Underground has a lofty goal — to become the most diverse startup incubator by the end of 2016.” Thus begins a recent CNN Money article about Capitol Broadcasting’s entrepreneurial campus, headquartered in downtown Durham.
On Monday, March 23, 2015, CNN Money posted “Wanted: Female entrepreneurs,” an article focusing on American Underground’s goal of fostering diversity. The piece highlights the fact that American Underground isn’t just giving lip service to the idea, they already have initiatives in place to accomplish their goal.
The article quotes American Underground Chief Strategist Adam Klein as saying, “‘Great business ideas aren’t getting the opportunity to come to market because the tech community of startups and investors lacks diversity.’”
The piece focuses on Tatiana Birgisson and her story of starting her company, Mati, at American Underground.
“So by the end of next year, American Underground wants women and minority-led firms to make up more than 50% of its startups. (Currently, it’s 36% of the 225 startups.),” continues the article.
Google, American Underground and CODE2040
American Underground’s quest to foster diversity also got a mention in USA TODAY on Monday, March 16th. American Underground is one of three hubs, which include Austin’s Capital Factory and Chicago’s 1871, which will house an entrepreneur through a new program.
Google is backing a pilot program by CODE2040, “a non-profit founded in 2012 that focuses on getting more African Americans and Hispanics into the tech workforce,” and one recipient will be working in the space at American Underground. Talib Graves-Manns, co-founder of Rainbow Me is the recipient of the CODE2040-sponsored one-year stipend and free office space.
About American Underground
The American Underground is the Triangle region’s first and largest campus for entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs need access to high-caliber resources, a vibrant community of peers, and flexible and affordable office space to grow their businesses and thrive. One of just eight Google for Entrepreneurs Tech Hubs in the country, the American Underground is home to over 200 smart startups. American Underground has two locations in downtown Durham and one in downtown Raleigh.
