Our Mission
To build an investor-activated capital ecosystem that broadens participation in early-stage markets and supports the long-term growth of Black founders, investors, and innovation communities.
Founded in 2017 by Hadiyah Mujhid, HBCUvc began as an effort to expand who participates in venture capital by creating meaningful pathways for emerging Black investors and leaders. What started as a fellowship for HBCU students has evolved into a national capital platform that develops new investors, strengthens trusted networks, and expands the flow of early-stage opportunity.
Our work is rooted in the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities—institutions that opened doors where none existed and built ecosystems grounded in community, trust, and shared advancement. Inspired by that legacy, HBCUvc takes a Black-forward approach that centers the experiences and potential of Black founders and investors while welcoming all who align with our values and vision.
We believe that innovation thrives in communities that have historically been overlooked and undercapitalized. By activating new investors, cultivating trusted relationships, and strengthening the networks through which capital moves, we help ensure that Black innovators—and the broader ecosystems they influence—are visible, supported, and connected to the opportunities they deserve.
Today, HBCUvc serves as a bridge between emerging talent, experienced investors, and early-stage founders—catalyzing a more dynamic, connected, and equitable innovation landscape for all.
Leadership
Hadiyah MujhidHadiyah Mujhid is the founder and CEO of HBCUvc, which under her leadership has grown into the largest program in the U.S. providing paid summer internships in venture capital for university students of color. Before founding HBCUvc, Hadiyah was a software engineer and startup founder, where she played a key role in helping early-stage companies get off the ground and scale. As an angel investor, she has supported numerous startups, leveraging her deep industry experience and broad network of investors to foster growth and innovation. Hadiyah is also a frequent speaker on equitable innovation and venture capital, with her work featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, and Business Insider. She holds an MBA from Drexel University and a BS in Computer Science from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
Chelsea RobertsChelsea Roberts is the Chief Operating Officer at HBCUvc, where she plays a pivotal role in creating equitable internship experiences by collaborating with workforce partners and building strong networks. One of her notable achievements includes launching a city-wide internship program in her hometown of Baltimore, MD. Chelsea’s journey with HBCUvc began after participating in one of its summer programs, which sparked her passion for the organization’s mission. With a background in venture philanthropy, Chelsea has worked at The Advisory Board Company and Mount Sinai Health System, where she developed expertise in connecting resources to drive social impact. A natural connector and network builder, Chelsea is committed to fostering partnerships that expand opportunities for Black communities. She holds a BA in Political Science from Spelman College and an MPA from New York University’s Wagner School of Public Service.
History & Impact
2017 Founding, First VC Training for HBCUs
Founded by Hadiyah Mujhid. Launched first-ever VC training for HBCU Students. Since 2019, our VC Training / Summer Associate program has created 205 paid internships in venture capital for Black and other historically excluded students and recent alumni.
2019 - 2021: First City-Wide VC Internship & Growing HBCU Endowments
2019: In collaboration with PledgeLA and the Mayor’s Office of Los Angeles, launched the first-ever citywide VC internship program.
2021: Partnered with Chris and Crystal Sacca to secure $2M for 20 HBCUs as an allocation in Lowercarbon Capital’s fund.
2019 - 2021: Amplifying Visibility for Emerging Venture Leaders & Entrepreneurs
Recognized 97 Black and Latinx VCs through our Emerging Venture Leaders list, which not only highlighted their impactful work but also served as “inspiration capital” that propelled many to further recognition and professional growth. 10% of HBCUvc’s Emerging Venture Leaders awardees were later featured in Forbes 30 under 30 following their recognition by us.
2021: Published book, Black Founders at Work, featuring the stories of Black Entrepreneurs & Investors. Available at all major book retailers.
2019 - 2022: Funding Black Founders
HBCUvc’s Lab Fund provided investing experience for VC training participants and awarded non-dilutive funding to 23 Black founders, helping them scale their startups with the support of Google For Startups and the MacArthur Foundation.