Investing in Black Entrepreneurs. Building the Future.

Launching in 2027

The Durham Black Futures Fund is a future funding initiative by CLAN designed to support Black entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses, and community-led ventures across Durham Region.

The Fund will provide access to financial support, business development resources, mentorship, and strategic partnerships that help entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale sustainable businesses.

Our vision is to reduce barriers to capital while strengthening Black entrepreneurship and creating lasting economic opportunities throughout Durham Region.

About the Fund

Access to capital remains one of the greatest challenges facing many entrepreneurs. The Durham Black Futures Fund is being developed to help address this gap by creating a dedicated funding initiative that supports innovative ideas, growing businesses, and community impact.

The Fund will work alongside CLAN’s programs, including the Durham Black Futures Accelerator, mentorship initiatives, and business development services, to provide entrepreneurs with both financial and non-financial support.

Applications are expected to open in 2027.

Our Vision

We envision a future where Black entrepreneurs have equitable access to funding, mentorship, networks, and opportunities to build thriving businesses that create jobs, generate wealth, and strengthen communities.

What the Fund Will Support

When launched, the Durham Black Futures Fund is expected to support initiatives such as:

  • Startup and early-stage businesses
  • Business expansion and growth
  • Innovation and technology ventures
  • Skilled trades businesses
  • Social enterprises
  • Youth entrepreneurship
  • Community-led economic development projects
  • Capacity-building and business readiness

Funding priorities and eligibility criteria will be announced before the launch of the program.

More Than Funding

The Durham Black Futures Fund is designed to be more than a grant program. Successful applicants will also benefit from opportunities to access:

  • Business mentorship
  • Leadership development
  • Entrepreneurship training
  • Investment readiness support
  • Networking opportunities
  • Strategic partnerships
  • Educational workshops
  • Connections to investors and ecosystem partners

Coming in 2027

The Durham Black Futures Fund is currently in the development and fundraising phase.

CLAN is working with community partners, philanthropic organizations, governments, financial institutions, corporations, and donors to establish the Fund and ensure it creates meaningful, long-term impact for Black entrepreneurs across Durham Region.

Applications are not open at this time.

We encourage entrepreneurs, supporters, and partners to join our mailing list to receive updates as the Fund develops.

Help Build the Fund

The success of the Durham Black Futures Fund depends on a strong community of partners, sponsors, donors, and advocates who believe in investing in Black entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re an individual, corporation, foundation, or public-sector organization, your support can help create opportunities for future generations of entrepreneurs.

Together, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous economy in Durham Region.

Stay Connected

Be among the first to know when applications open in 2027.