To Those Who Build Despite the Noise

There’s a certain grit that comes with pushing forward when most would stop. It’s the same grit that many of us have had to find early on—before there was a clear path, before anyone believed in what we were building. I know a lot of you understand this because you’re out there doing the work, making something from nothing, and proving every day that you don’t need permission to create.

I was reminded of this grit when I was shot in late June this year. I spent the day speaking about how we could use business and emerging technologies to improve communities at the Black Commerce conference. Surrounded by minds pushing the culture forward I was inspired. Later that evening, I found myself in a hospital bed, staring at the ceiling, reevaluating everything. Realizing that the vision I had needed to become the central focus of my life. From that moment, something clicked. Laying there, I realized that every obstacle I’d faced up to that point was just preparation for something bigger. I wasn’t going to let a bullet stop me from what I was building. So I sat in my hospital bed and started building what became OuRhizome . I returned to DC a month later for the National Association of Community and Restorative Justice (NACRJ) conference, I'm now seeking to use restorative justice practices. I've doubled down on my vision with more clarity and determination than ever before.

This isn’t just my story—it’s a reality for anyone who’s had to fight through adversity to keep moving forward. I’m reaching out to offer what I can—strategic insight, guidance, or just an honest conversation with those of you who are in the trenches. I’ve spent years navigating the complex worlds of startups, tech, culture, and community-building. I’ve helped founders refine their models, connect with the right partners, and, most importantly, face the challenges that don’t fit neatly into a business plan.

If you’re grinding away, trying to get that next round of funding, positioning your brand, or finding ways to expand your network without losing your values, let’s talk. I’ve always been about building ecosystems where innovation and human capital flow freely. That’s the core of everything I’m involved in right now—from OuRhizome , to Overview Society, to Quorum1 , to Uncommon Impact Group the general thread is: How WE can improve systems and thus lives.

Here’s what I can offer:

• Cut Through the Chaos: The startup world is noisy. I’m here to help you find clarity when the road ahead seems full of distractions and options. Whether it’s refining your pitch, broadening your vision, or scaling your impact, we’ll find the focus you need.
• Strategic Partnerships: I’ve made a career out of building bridges between people who aren’t just in it for the transaction, but for the long game. If you’re ready to connect with those who understand your journey, expand your circle with meaningful alliances.
• Fundraising with Purpose: Too many founders get caught up in chasing money instead of finding partners who share their vision. Map out a path that gets you funded without selling your soul in the process.

To those of you building something bigger than yourselves, let’s work together. Drop me a message if you’re interested in chatting. Whether it’s a deep dive or a quick conversation, I’m here to support those who are serious about making real moves, not just noise.

Let’s make the next step count.

— Israel Wilson