Creating Pathways for Economic Empowerment + Big Announcement! ?

February is always a time of deep reflection for me, personally and professionally. It’s the month I first experienced snow, the month I celebrated my wedding, and a time to honor those who paved the way for me to do the work I love.

This past month, I had the privilege of speaking at the Family Stewardship Council at Fordham Gabelli School of Business, where Christina Lewis honored the legacy of her father, Reginald Lewis, a trailblazer in private equity and a champion for Black business leadership. It was a powerful reminder of those who fought to create pathways for economic empowerment, capital access, and equity in this industry.

I've also been reflecting on Richard “Dick” Parsons, whose brilliance, resilience, and leadership left an indelible mark on business and finance. His legacy, like so many before him, reminds us that our work is about more than today—it’s about building a financial ecosystem that fosters long-term equity, sustainability, and opportunity for all.

That’s why I’m proud to announce that applications are now open for our 2025 Fellowship cohort. If you or someone in your network is ready to take that next step, now is the time to apply.

As we move in today's ever changing environment, I encourage you to reflect on those who created pathways for you—mentors, leaders, and trailblazers—and think about how you want to honor their legacy.?

Whether through the work you do, the opportunities you create, or the impact you leave behind, we all have a role in continuing their mission.

Let’s keep going no matter what.

Milton Speid

Executive Director, VC Include

2025 Fellowship Application Now Open! ??

We’re thrilled to announce the application for VCI's 2025 Fellowship for Impact Fund I Managers is now open!?

VCI’s Fellowship is an education platform and support network that to date has equipped 75 General Partners (GPs) with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to succeed.

The 12-week program provides industry-leading education, mentorship, and network support to new and emerging managers who are starting their first fund in the U.S.?

The Application will be open from February 24th to March 17th.

The Fellowship Program starts on Tuesday, May 20th.

If you know a high-potential emerging manager or emerging fund in your network, please help us spread the word to them today!

2025 Fellowship Information Sessions ??

Have questions or want to learn more about the 2025 Fellowship?

Join us for one of two virtual information sessions!

RSVP at: https://lu.ma/VCI2025InfoSessions

Celebrating Black History Month: Black Champions, GPs, and Allocators ????????????

VC Include was honored to participate in the Black Champions, GPs, and Allocators event, hosted by the Family Stewardship Council at Fordham Gabelli School of Business on February 21, 2025. This convening brought together leading fund managers and capital allocators to discuss building trust with LPs, balancing returns with impact, and accelerating investment into diverse fund managers.

Keynote speaker Christina Lewis shared the legacy of her father, Reginald Lewis, a pioneer in private equity whose impact continues to shape the industry. Today, Christina is the founder of multifamily office Beatrice Advisors.

The Emerging Manager panel was moderated by VC Include Executive Director Milton Speid and featured VCI Fellowship alumni Lorine Pendleton (125 Ventures), Brian Hollins (Collide Capital), and Philip Reeves (Apis & Heritage). ???

This conversation is especially timely as we recognize Black History Month and reflect on the legacy of Black business leaders who paved the way. From Reginald Lewis to today’s emerging fund managers, access to capital and economic empowerment are as critical as ever to building generational wealth and fostering innovation.

Huge thank you to Peter Lupoff and everyone on the Fordham team who made this possible. We truly appreciate the opportunity to come together in this special time and place.

Fund Fundamentals In-Person Gathering ?

From Zoom screens to Nasdaq billboard: what a journey it has been for our inaugural Fund Fundamentals class!?

Despite the freezing January temperatures, many of these incredible women traveled across the country to meet and participate in the culminating in-person programming. Their collective joy lit up Times Square and for a moment they outshined the lights! ???

Thank you again to the Nasdaq Foundation and Heading for Change for supporting these accomplished and daring women in such a memorable way.

VCI Alumni Celebration ???

Congratulations to VCI Fellowship alumna and the founder of 125 Ventures, Lorine Pendleton ton, for being featured in Worth Magazine!?

Lorine is leading the charge in investing in sports, media, and entertainment at the intersection of tech. 125 Ventures also has a focus on women's sports – a sector that is projected to grow by 300% by 2030. ???

In the interview, Lorine shares how she got started in venture capital, what guides her investment decisions, and advice for other angel investors. Read the article at: https://worth.com/lorine-pendleton-125-ventures/