Black Girl Ventures, a foundation that fights to support Black and Brown businesswomen, is partnering with the NBA to help usher in a new era of young entrepreneurs. Specifically, Black Girl Ventures is launching its BGV NextGen Program to provide meaningful support to entrepreneurial-minded HBCU students. 

The BGV NextGen Program is an initiative that aims to help young women bring their entrepreneurial visions to life by providing business mentorship, networking opportunities, and a $5,000 stipend. The program is open to Black and Brown women, ages 18 to 24, and currently enrolled as full-time student at one of America's many illustrious HBCUs.

Additionally, all applicants must, at a minimum, already have a "viable business idea" in mind. Applicants must commit to about three hours of work per week, if selected. Eligible individuals can apply until Feb. 4. Twenty-five lucky students will be chosen by Feb. 16. These young entrepreneurs will then get the chance to partake in an eight-week program and receive access to various resources for their businesses.

At the end of this eight-week program, the 25 participants will showcase their growth on demo day. Seven of these women will be selected to participate in Black Girl Ventures' upcoming pitch competition, where the young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to acquire additional connections and gain further support for their businesses. Secure that bag, sis!

This initiative is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurial-minded HBCU students, and — with just under a month left to apply — the time is right for eligible women to make that first move toward growing their businesses. 

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