MassChallenge

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Our Commitment

Since our inception, MassChallenge has valued equitable access to resources for entrepreneurs. Our zero equity, non-profit model provides access to entrepreneurs with limited economic resources or networks so their ideas and companies can scale and succeed. 

 

MassChallenge believes that a successful innovation ecosystem is diverse and inclusive. Our goal is to build DEI into the DNA of our entire innovation network. Through these efforts, we’re striving for scale and growth in this area – as much as anywhere.  

Structural Pillars

This work includes creating tools for inclusion within our technical systems, analyzing our operating model and selection processes, and partnering with external organizations for recommendations on how to decrease bias and increase equity in our processes. 

This work includes open, actionable conversations about anti-racism, bias, inclusivity, and equity; hiring, onboarding, and training a diverse work force; providing growth and development opportunities to employees from underrepresented groups; and ensuring that our benefits and policies support our goals. 

This work includes evaluating and improving our recruiting and selection processes, increasing the diversity of our expert pool, building expert capacity, and ensuring that all program and event offerings support the mission. 

You may wonder, specifically, if those are just words that we’re saying or if we can actually point towards actions? And we think you’re right to ask. Each of these pillars has intentional initiatives and specific measurable goals against it. We are working with experts within and outside of our organization to meet our goals and are listening to our stakeholders whose lived experiences guide our efforts. You can read more about our efforts in our latest DEI update.

 

In 2022 MassChallenge had:

 

  • 41% of startups with at least one female, non-binary founder
  • 51% of startups with at least one BIPOC founder
  • 9% of startups with at least one black founder
  • 18% of startups with at least one Latin founder
  • 350+ mentors that participate in identify and anti-bias training

Our Collaborators

1863 VenturesImpact Hub

Amplify

BECMA

Black Ambition

Broad of Directors

BUILT

Equity at W

DivInc

Forefront

Hummingbird Humanity

Impact Ventures

Out in Tech

Pioneers 21

She Raises

SWAN Impact Network

Think + Zoom

Tiger Launch

United Way

Visible Hands

YW Inclusion Boston

DEI MassChallenge

 

MassChallenge will never be “done” with this work. As an organization, we believe in continual progress, and we approach our equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts with the same mindset. As leaders in innovation, we understand that listening and adaptation are essential components of leading. And we aim to do that.  

  

If you have any questions regarding MassChallenge’s DEI initiatives, please get in touch!