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
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!