Black Ecosystem Projects
Innovation and growth are at the heart of everything we do. Over the years, ACBN has launched a variety of specialized projects designed to break down barriers for Black entrepreneurs. These past initiatives represent the seeds we’ve planted in the ecosystem—fostering mentorship, wellness, and investment readiness for the next generation of leaders.
ACBN Accelerator
The ACBN Accelerator was a 6-month pre-seed program specifically designed for Black founders who have moved past the “idea phase” but need a professionalized infrastructure to scale. The program focused on bridging the knowledge gap and helping founders transition from solo operators to investment-ready CEOs.
The Wellness Project
As part of the Black Ecosystem Project, ACBN offered FREE one to one counselling sessions by registered mental health practitioners. Recognizing that business owners often lack the time or resources for long-term traditional therapy, ACBN has implemented a high-impact, short-term professional support model.
If you are in crisis, please go to your local hospital.
Black Founders in Clean Technology
This was the first Canadian Cleantech Certificate specifically curated for Black entrepreneurs. A 10-week intensive program that focuses on “entrepreneurial endurance,” helping founders identify environmental challenges and turn them into profitable, innovative solutions.
The Investment Readiness Program
The Investment Readiness Program was a federal initiative that helps Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs) build the internal capacity needed to participate in Canada’s growing Social Finance Fund. ACBN acts as a “builder” within this ecosystem, specifically ensuring that Black-led and equity-deserving organizations are not left behind as new forms of social investment become available.
Youth Village
Youth Village was a collaborative project designed to foster peer-to-peer conversations between aspiring youth entrepreneurs and seasoned, mature business owners. It operates on the African proverb philosophy that “it takes a village,” creating a structured environment for storytelling, mentorship, and knowledge transfer.