Diverse teams consistently outperform their homogeneous counterparts. They bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, often resulting in better decision-making and enhanced performance. Despite this, these fast-growing communities in the U.S. often face significant barriers to accessing funding. The venture capital ecosystem has traditionally favored established networks, leaving many high-potential, diverse teams without the resources they need to thrive. Bridge Funding Global aims to change this by ensuring that women and underrepresented groups in venture capital receive the support they need.
Recently, Bridge Funding Global announced a new vertical to support diverse emerging managers, marking the first time they have expanded their focus beyond women. This initiative, announced at their annual conference, is a logical step in response to the high potential seen in diverse fund managers. Many strong fund managers from diverse backgrounds did not have women majority ownership, prompting the need for broader support. Additionally, the platform has been adding limited partners (family offices) on a weekly and often daily basis who are interested in more diverse teams. The expansion represents a significant market opportunity as diverse and women-led funds and companies continue to outperform.
To that end, Bridge Funding Global is taking a bold step forward by launching applications for a new program aimed at both women GPs and diverse GPs, with applications open until June 15th. The program is designed to provide comprehensive support, including valuable feedback for those who do not get accepted, ensuring every applicant benefits from the process. Applications will be reviewed by some of the world’s most recognized institutional allocators, including Upstart Co-Lab, GREE, Morgan Creek, Pattern Ventures, The Equity Alliance, and others. The initiative underscores Bridge Funding Global’s commitment to creating a more inclusive venture capital landscape, providing opportunities for those who have traditionally been marginalized.
Last week’s conference was a landmark event, emphasizing Bridge Funding Global’s global impact. The event saw 77 LPs and 59 women GPs in attendance, a new record, with participants traveling from the U.S., Canada, Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Esteemed speakers from prominent organizations such as the Bush Foundation, Caltech, Cendana Capital, Screendoor, and South State Bank highlighted the importance of addressing gender inequity in venture capital.
Bridge Funding Global has made significant strides in facilitating LP commitments. To date, they have secured over 50 LP commitments to support their incredible women GPs. Operations manager Amin Jallouli, known as the “LP/GP matching expert,” has been instrumental in refining the platform’s matching algorithm, significantly enhancing its ability to connect top emerging managers with capital. Currently, the platform represents over 300 LPs who are registered and vetted, and they are in discussions with over 500 potential LPs for future programming. The growing network of investors reflects an increasing appetite for diverse investment opportunities and the platform’s success in fostering meaningful connections.
Since 2020, Bridge Funding Global has facilitated over 2,000 one-on-one LP/GP matching meetings, demonstrating their commitment to creating valuable opportunities for emerging managers. This year, the platform expanded its operations to Asia, engaging with over 40 family offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Seoul. More than 20 of these offices have already joined the platform. Notably, Asia-Pacific offices lead the world in women’s representation in investing roles, with women holding 24% of these positions. The regional leadership in diversity highlights the global momentum toward more inclusive financial practices and Bridge Funding Global’s critical role in moving it forward.
By fostering a more inclusive venture capital landscape, Bridge Funding Global is transforming the industry and driving better financial returns, promoting fairness, and ensuring that the best ideas, regardless of their origin, have the opportunity to flourish.
Spencer Hulse is the Editorial Director at Grit Daily. He is responsible for overseeing other editors and writers, day-to-day operations, and covering breaking news.
