Tennessee State University graduate Dorsey West is poised to launch HBCU$ next month to support HBCU alumni in their entrepreneurial journeys.
HBCU$, a giving and wealth-building network, is slated to kick off on May 1, 2025.
A History of Financial Disparities For HBCUs
West created HBCU$
after learning of a 2023 analysis by the U.S. Departments of Education and Agriculture.
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The research found that between 1987 and 2020, HBCU land-grant institutions received approximately $12.6 billion less in state funding than other land-grant institutions. During the same period, his alma mater had been underfunded by $2.1 billion.
“With unprecedented budget cuts happening at the national and state levels, HBCUs are going to need increased financial support from the private sector, as well as their alumni. I created HBCU$ to maximize contributions from both sources,” explains West.
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HBCU$ is Providing Financial Support for HBCU Entrepreneurs
HBCU$ will financially support Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the entrepreneurs they produce. Through its free online marketing platform, the program will help HBCU alumni and student-owned businesses. The entrepreneurs will, in turn, donate a portion of any additional revenue generated back to the college of their choice.
“Consistently patronizing companies that contribute money back to Historically Black Colleges & Universities creates a self-sustaining cycle that can help close the funding gap for these institutions and provide long-term economic growth for businesses within the HBCU$ network,” West added. “So, it’s a win-win for the HBCUs and their entrepreneurs.”
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The platform seeks to nurture a network that revitalizes both the colleges and the businesses that derive from them. By harnessing their alumni’s entrepreneurial spirits, HBCUs gain crucial funding and promote economic empowerment among their communities. Set to officially launch on May 1st, 2025, HBCU$ is designed to strengthen the financial foundation of HBCUs through enhancing alumni contributions.
Consumers who want to engage with and support the movement can join the HBCU$ email list to receive exclusive offers and early access to the membership platform.
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Furthermore, HBCU alumni and student business owners are welcome to promote their products and services at no cost, including options for video interviews and profiles within an online directory.
Main Image: Stock Inage
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