Black Ambition Launches $1M Digital Learning Lab to Empower Florida Founders

Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition launches Fundable Founders Learning Lab to fuel the growth of entrepreneurs across Florida. 

Backed by a $1 million investment from an anonymous donor, the high-impact, 10-week virtual program is part of a two-year statewide initiative to support 500 Florida-based entrepreneurs.

The initiative will provide access to capital, mentorship, expert training, and a robust network at a time when many support systems for small business owners are disappearing.

Black Ambition’s Track Record of Impact Among Underrepresented Communities

“Entrepreneurs are facing unprecedented challenges—from shrinking access to capital to dwindling community resources,” said Black Ambition CEO Felecia Hatcher in a press release seen by UrbanGeekz. “This $1 million donation is more than just funding—it’s fuel for a new generation of fundable founders building bold, innovative solutions right here in Florida.”

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The program is open to all entrepreneurs, with a strong emphasis on ensuring founders from underrepresented communities are equipped to build fundable, sustainable ventures. 

Florida has over 1.38 million minority-owned businesses, yet the path to capital and scale remains steep. The Fundable Founders Learning Lab aims to change that narrative. The program will provide tactical training, national exposure, and help bold ideas become breakthrough businesses.

Since its launch, Black Ambition has awarded nearly $13 million in growth capital to 131 entrepreneurs. It has helped its network raise over $280 million in follow-on capital and supported over 1,000 founders nationwide. In Florida alone, 15 game-changing entrepreneurs have already been funded, and this new initiative aims to expand that impact over the next two years.

What The Program Will Offer

To deliver an excellent experience, Black Ambition teamed up with these two powerhouse partners:

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Codner & Co., an e-commerce powerhouse, has helped over 10,000 founders build brands that generate over $96 million annually. Their portfolio features success stories like scaling Black College from $40K/month to $1M/month in just 12 months.

In addition, ACT House, a certified B-Corp, is reshaping how diverse founders discover their entrepreneurial identity and build purpose-driven teams. Their alumni have launched businesses such as Boddle Learning, which now boasts 10M+ users, and Good Girl Chocolate, sold in over 150 Whole Foods stores.

Selected applicants for the Fundable Founders Learning Lab will get the following:

• 10 Weeks of Expert-Led Virtual Sessions on marketing, capital strategy, partnerships, customer development, and more.
• Coaching and Mentorship from top entrepreneurs and operators
• Direct Pathways to Capital through curated networking and investor opportunities
• Exclusive Access to the Black Ambition Network for ongoing support, events, and funding opportunities

This initiative will culminate in the So Ambitious Dinner in Miami. During this exclusive, invite-only experience, top participants will connect with investors, retailers, and strategic partners ready to open doors and write checks.

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“If you’ve got a bold vision and a business worth backing with a world-class network and resources, this is your moment,” says Jermeen Sherman, Managing Director at Black Ambition. “Apply now, and let us help turn your hustle into impact.”

Applications are ongoing and will close on April 30, 2025. The program is a fully online initiative that’s free for Florida-based founders. It’s open to all entrepreneurs who want to start, expand, or take their businesses to the next level.

Musician Pharrell Wiliams, image courtesy of Flickr