BIPOC Foundation

What BIPOC Foundation does

BIPOC Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit organization founded in 2020 and officially launched in February 2022 to advance economic empowerment for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color entrepreneurs in Western Canada. Headquartered in Lethbridge, Alberta, on the traditional territory of the Siksikaitsitapii (Blackfoot) Confederacy, Nations of Treaty No. 7, the foundation delivers a portfolio of programs including the 10-week Black Founders Hub accelerator, a 6-month paired Mentorship Program, the LIFT 8-week business planning cohort, the Learning Series, the federally backed Start-Up Visa Program (in partnership with ISM Arts & Culture), paid SuccessMap business planning services ($3,500-$4,500+), the BIPOC Activation Grant micro-grants (Community, Art, Entrepreneurship, Student streams), and the Code & AI Creators Club for Grades 6-9 youth.

The foundation's business model is a hybrid nonprofit structure: the majority of programs are delivered free to qualifying BIPOC entrepreneurs, funded primarily by federal government grants from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) — $2.6M in 2022 and a $5.6M multi-organization award announced in June 2026 — supplemented by corporate sponsorships, private donations (via PayPal), membership dues, paid SuccessMap engagements, and revenue from signature events including the Legacy Gala, Excellence Awards, Redefine Conference, and For the Arts Festival. Its customer segments span Black, Indigenous, and POC entrepreneurs, immigrant founders (via SUV), BIPOC students, and BIPOC artists and creatives across Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. The foundation claims to have advanced 200+ businesses from 2022-2024 against a mandate of 400 businesses over three years, supported by 200+ Venture Members and 400+ Community Members, and is positioning to expand nationwide and into adjacent verticals such as affordable housing and youth STEM education.

Name

BIPOC Foundation

Legal name

BIPOC Foundation

Website

https://bipocfoundation.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2020

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

BIPOC Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit founded in 2020 that delivers accelerator programs, mentorship, business planning services, micro-grants, and immigration pathways to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color entrepreneurs across Western Canada.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Nonprofit Entrepreneurship Support Services

NAICS

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations (813), Grantmaking and Giving Services (81321), Civic and Social Organizations (8134), Social Advocacy Organizations (8133)

SIC

Services-Membership Organizations (8600)

akta.pro primary industry

Community Foundations (BPAGAKAB)

akta.pro secondary industries

Entrepreneurship & Small Business Workforce Programs (EDAAAOAM), Entrepreneurship Foundations & Startup Basics (EDAMAHAA), Corporate Accelerators & Startup Programs (FSANAHAD), Corporate Foundations & CSR Grantmaking (BPAGAKAC)

Keywords

• BIPOC entrepreneurship support
• Business accelerator programs
• Nonprofit economic development
• Entrepreneur mentorship services
• Community grant programs

Headquarters

HQ city

Lethbridge

HQ country

Canada

HQ region

North America

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Government Grants and Funding: BIPOC Foundation operates as a nonprofit primarily funded through government grants. The organization received a $2.6 million funding commitment from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) in 2022 to establish a business accelerator program for Black entrepreneurs in Western Canada. Additional federal funding of $5.6 million was announced in 2026 for Alberta-based projects supporting Black entrepreneurs. The foundation was founded in 2020 with official launch in February 2022 as part of a multi-million dollar federal economic development investment.
2. Corporate and Private Donations: The foundation accepts donations from corporations, individuals, and private donors to support program delivery and community initiatives. Donation information is available through the organization's website via PayPal.
3. Membership Fees: BIPOC Foundation offers a membership program designed exclusively for BIPOC entrepreneurs, founders, and impact-driven organizations. The membership provides resources, access to community, and exclusive benefits to support business growth.
4. Program Services Revenue: Some programs such as SuccessMap business planning services generate revenue through fee-for-service models. Packages range from Foundation Package ($3,500) to Growth Package ($4,500) to Premium Package (custom pricing).
5. Event Revenue: The foundation generates revenue through event activities including ticket sales for the Legacy Gala, sponsorship packages, vendor booth fees, and table bookings at signature events.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels7 records

Marketing channels15 records

Core offering

BIPOC Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit that delivers entrepreneurship support programming to BIPOC founders across Western Canada, anchored by its Black Founders Hub accelerator. Offerings include mentorship, a Learning Series, Start-Up Visa Program support, SuccessMap business planning, the Code & AI Creators Club, Workforce MBA practicum placement, and grant-making such as the BIPOC Activation Grant, all delivered through a community-membership model.

Product overview

BIPOC Foundation operates as a nonprofit economic empowerment organization offering a multi-tiered portfolio of programs and services for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color entrepreneurs in Western Canada. The core offerings include the Black Founders Hub accelerator (10-week program), Mentorship Program (6-month paired format), Learning Series (facilitated dialogues), and the Start-Up Visa Program for immigrant entrepreneurs. Additional services include LIFT Program and SuccessMap (paid business planning from $3,500-$4,500), the BIPOC Activation Grant micro-grants, and Code & AI Creators Club for youth STEM education. The organization also produces The Bridge magazine, hosts Excellence Awards and Legacy Gala events, and publishes white papers on systemic barriers. Membership program provides exclusive resources and community access. The portfolio ranges from free community programs to premium paid services, serving entrepreneurs from early-stage through established businesses.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Black Founders Hub Accelerator A flagship multi-stage accelerator program for BIPOC founders in Western Canada, providing structured training, mentorship, and ecosystem resources to launch and grow businesses. Intended for Black and other BIPOC entrepreneurs seeking an intensive accelerator experience.
• ElevateIP Program A program that supports BIPOC entrepreneurs in understanding, protecting, and leveraging intellectual property assets for their businesses. Targeted at founders who need IP education and resources.
• Mentorship Program A mentorship service that connects BIPOC founders and entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and investors to support business development, decision-making, and growth.
• Learning Series An ongoing educational program offering webinars and expert-led sessions on topics relevant to BIPOC entrepreneurs, including inclusive workplaces and broader business topics.
• Start-Up Visa Program Support A specialized service that supports international BIPOC entrepreneurs in navigating Canada's Start-Up Visa immigration pathway, including documentation and ecosystem connections required to qualify.
• SuccessMap Business Planning A business planning service that provides BIPOC entrepreneurs with structured support to develop business plans and operational roadmaps, advancing ideas into investor-ready businesses.
• BIPOC Activation Grant A direct grant program offering non-dilutive funding to qualifying BIPOC founders to support early-stage business activation.
• Code & AI Creators Club A specialized program supporting BIPOC founders building technology and AI-enabled ventures, offering community, training, and resources tailored to software- and AI-driven businesses.
• Workforce (MBA Practicum Placement) A placement service that connects University of Lethbridge MBA practicum students with BIPOC-owned businesses, providing consulting capacity for founders and practical experience for students.
• The Bridge Magazine A digital publication hosted by BIPOC Foundation that highlights the stories of BIPOC founders, community members, and partners, including coverage of events and ecosystem narratives.
• LIFT Program A development program under BIPOC Foundation designed to support BIPOC entrepreneurs as they work toward specific business and personal milestones.
• Excellence Awards An annual BIPOC Foundation event recognizing BIPOC founders, partners, and contributors for excellence and impact in the community.
• Legacy Gala A signature BIPOC Foundation fundraising and community celebration event bringing together founders, sponsors, and partners.
• Redefine Conference A conference hosted by BIPOC Foundation focused on advancing conversations, learning, and opportunities for BIPOC entrepreneurs and the broader ecosystem.
• BIPOC Foundation Membership A community membership available to BIPOC entrepreneurs, founders, and impact-driven organizations, providing access to the Foundation's network, resources, and events.
• Affordable Housing Initiative A BIPOC Foundation initiative addressing housing-related challenges within the BIPOC community as part of its broader economic empowerment mission.

Quantifiable outcome

• Advanced 200+ businesses from 2022-2024
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers17 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

25 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Council for the Advancement of African Canadians (Africa Centre)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerOne of five organizations delivering the $5.6 million federal funding from PrairiesCan for Black entrepreneurship support in Alberta. Provides training, mentorship, business advisory services, and capital readiness support.
• Canadian Imperial AdvantagecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner organization delivering federal funding for Black entrepreneurship programs in Alberta, providing business advisory and support services.
• The Nod FoundationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner organization delivering federal funding for Black entrepreneurship programs in Alberta, providing training and mentorship support.
• Black Canadian Women in Action SocietycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner organization delivering federal funding for Black entrepreneurship programs in Alberta, focusing on support for Black women entrepreneurs.
• Black Business Association of British ColumbiacoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerStrategic partner for Mentorship Program delivery. The Black Business Association of BC supports the program's 1-2-1 paired mentorship format for BIPOC founders.
• ISM Arts & CulturecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerGovernment of Canada Designated Organization partner facilitating Start-Up Visa Program candidates. BIPOC Foundation partners with ISM to provide exclusive access to the SUV Program for immigrant entrepreneurs.
• ElevateIP AlbertacoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerEcosystem navigator for ElevateIP program, providing comprehensive IP support to BIPOC and immigrant entrepreneurs. Delivered on behalf of University of Calgary by Innovate Calgary and Economic Development Lethbridge.
• Innovate CalgarycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner in delivering ElevateIP Alberta program providing intellectual property support to BIPOC entrepreneurs.
• Economic Development LethbridgecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner in ElevateIP Alberta delivery, supporting IP education and resources for BIPOC entrepreneurs in Southern Alberta.
• RINSAcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRegional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta - ecosystem partner supporting BIPOC entrepreneurship in the region.
• University of LethbridgecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerEducational institution partner providing internship opportunities, Code & AI Creators Club venue at Destination Exploration, and student practicum placements.
• Lethbridge CollegecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerEducational institution partner supporting BIPOC entrepreneurship programs and initiatives.
• University Canada West (UCW)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerUniversity partner for MBA Practicum Placement program connecting BIPOC Foundation network companies with MBA students for work-integrated learning.
• TecconnectcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerBusiness advisor program partner supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs with growth advisory services.
• 1st Choice Savings and Credit UnionminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCredit union partner supporting BIPOC Activation Grant program and community initiatives.
• Shine OnminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartner organization for BIPOC Activation Grant program supporting community initiatives.
• HR AdvantageminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerHR consulting partner for BIPOC Activation Grant program.
• YWCAminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerWomen's organization partner for BIPOC Activation Grant program supporting BIPOC women and families.
• Community Futures Lethbridge RegionminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerRegional business support organization providing resources for Black entrepreneurs.
• Alberta InnovatesminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProvincial innovation agency providing funding and support for entrepreneurs.
• Bank of CanadaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCentral bank providing business development resources for Black entrepreneurs.
• Black Business Venture AssociationminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerBlack business support organization providing mentorship and resources.
• Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge HubminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerKnowledge hub providing research and resources for Black entrepreneurs.
• FuturpreneurminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerOrganization providing financing and mentoring for young entrepreneurs aged 18-39.
• DataCamp DonatesminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerEducational technology partner providing data science learning resources.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Direct peers

• Council for the Advancement of African Canadians (Africa Centre): Alberta-based organization providing training, mentorship, business advisory, and capital readiness for Black entrepreneurs. Co-recipient of the 2026 $5.6M PrairiesCan funding alongside BIPOC Foundation, serving overlapping founders in the same region.
• Futurpreneur: National nonprofit providing financing, mentorship, and resources to young entrepreneurs aged 18-39. Listed as BIPOC Foundation partner; competes and complements for the same early-stage Canadian entrepreneur segment.
• Black Business Association of British Columbia: Regional BIPOC business support organization providing mentorship, training, and resources to Black entrepreneurs in British Columbia. Direct peer delivering mentorship program in partnership with BIPOC Foundation and serving overlapping founder segments.
• Canadian Imperial Advantage: Alberta-based Black entrepreneurship support organization co-recipient of the 2026 $5.6M PrairiesCan grant. Provides business advisory and support services directly comparable to BIPOC Foundation's mandate.
• Black Business Venture Association: Canadian organization providing mentorship, resources, and support to Black entrepreneurs. Listed partner of BIPOC Foundation; serves an overlapping target audience with comparable programming.
• Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub: National research and knowledge mobilization hub supporting Black entrepreneurship in Canada. Listed partner of BIPOC Foundation; both produce research and resources addressing systemic barriers for Black business owners.

Broad incumbents

• MaRS Discovery District: Toronto-based innovation hub providing entrepreneurship programming, mentorship, and capital access for Canadian founders. While geographically distinct, MaRS serves comparable SMB entrepreneur segments with accelerator and venture services.
• Community Futures Network of Canada: National network of 269 Community Futures offices providing business loans, training, and resources to rural and underserved Canadian entrepreneurs. Community Futures Lethbridge Region is a BIPOC Foundation partner; the broader network addresses similar entrepreneur support needs.
• BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada): Canada's federal business development bank providing financing and advisory services to entrepreneurs. Listed BIPOC Foundation partner; serves a much broader entrepreneur base with capital and advisory products including programs targeting underrepresented founders.

Regional players

• Halifax's Black Business Initiative: Atlantic Canada-based BIPOC business support organization providing entrepreneurship training and capital readiness for Black entrepreneurs. Operates in a different geography but shares BIPOC Foundation's mission and programming model.

Market position

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/bipocfoundation
• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCF-GWe5G5RrPi1g0ByQzGmg
• Facebookfacebook.com/BIPOC-Foundation-110066548078331
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/bipocfoundati0n
• Instagraminstagram.com/bipocfoundation

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors1 record

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about BIPOC Foundation