Since our inception, MassChallenge has valued equitable access to resources for entrepreneurs. Our zero equity, non-profit model provides access to entrepreneurs with limited economic resources or networks so their ideas and companies can scale and succeed.
MassChallenge believes that a successful innovation ecosystem is diverse and inclusive. Our goal is to build DEI into the DNA of our entire innovation network. Through these efforts, we’re striving for scale and growth in this area - as much as anywhere. Across our organization, we’re examining our core processes and operations to identify and remove areas of bias, emphasizing training on equity practices, focusing on recruiting and hiring approaches that are inclusive and equitable, and bringing anti-bias learnings to our startups, partners, and experts for exponential amplification.
We are focused on supporting a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem through three main pillars:
You may wonder, specifically, if those are just words that we’re saying or if we can actually point towards actions? And we think you’re right to ask. Each of these pillars has intentional initiatives and specific measurable goals against it. We are working with experts within and outside of our organization to meet our goals and are listening to our stakeholders whose lived experiences guide our efforts. You can read more about our efforts in our latest DEI update.
Our commitment is to continue to report on key metrics that reflect our progress to date, as well as the work ahead.
In 2021 MassChallenge had:
- 49% of startups with at least one female, non-binary founder
- 47% of startups with at least one BIPOC founder
- 10% of startups with at least one black founder
- 16% of startups with at least one Latin founder
- 350+ mentors that participate in identify and anti-bias training
- 100% of judges participate in bias training (should be 100%)
Our collaborators:
MassChallenge will never be “done” with this work. As an organization, we believe in continual progress, and we approach our equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts with the same mindset. As leaders in innovation, we understand that listening and adaptation are essential components of leading. And we aim to do that.
If you have any questions regarding MassChallenge’s DEI initiatives, please get in touch!
