Innovation meets capital
In the vibrant world of entrepreneurship, where innovation meets capital, DBT Ventures emerges as a beacon of hope and transformation for underrepresented founders. Established in 2015 by Luke Diaz, a visionary with deep roots in finance and a passion for leveling the playing field, DBT Ventures has quickly become synonymous with empowerment, diversity, and success in the startup ecosystem.
A Mission to Do Big Things
“Do Big Things” – a mantra that embodies the ethos of DBT Ventures. With a clear mission to support and invest in startups led by underrepresented founders. This company addresses the glaring disparity in venture capital allocation. In 2022, a mere 1.9% of venture capital went to female founders, despite women making up 20% of the entrepreneurial landscape. DBT Ventures sees this not as a challenge but as an opportunity to foster equity and innovation in the business world.
Impact Through DBT Ventures Investment
DBT Ventures stands out not only for its commitment to underrepresented founders but also for its strategic approach to investment and advisory services. Specializing in software and consumer companies, DBT has advised or invested in over 15 companies, with a notable success rate that speaks volumes about its impact. From supporting seed-stage startups to achieving significant annual recurring revenue (ARR) milestones, DBT’s portfolio is a testament to the potential of diverse leadership and the power of conscious investment. “Angel investors can offer much more than just capital. They provide mentorship, industry connections, and valuable advice to help startups navigate the early challenges of business,” Diaz explains. By focusing on underrepresented entrepreneurs, Diaz and his team ensure that these founders receive not only financial support but also access to a network of resources and knowledge.
Leadership and Customer Success
Luke Diaz’s background in finance, software, and customer success management lays the foundation for DBT Ventures’ unique approach. Diaz, driven by personal experiences and a deep understanding of the psychological aspects of finance, advocates for conscious leadership and customer success. These principles are not just buzzwords but are integral to how DBT Ventures selects and supports its investments, ensuring that startups not only grow financially but also contribute positively to their communities and customers.
Data-Driven Decisions
In today’s data-rich environment, making informed decisions is crucial for startup success. DBT Ventures leverages data science to guide its strategy, providing startups with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complex business landscape. This data-driven approach helps demystify the journey for underrepresented founders, enabling them to focus on what truly matters – building sustainable, impactful businesses.
DBT Ventures: Stories of Success
One of the most compelling aspects of DBT Ventures’ impact is the success stories of its portfolio companies. Take, for example, the investment in Kahawa 1893, which recently made a splash on Shark Tank. This not only showcases the potential of underrepresented entrepreneurs but also highlights the critical role of supportive, insightful venture partners like DBT in bringing these opportunities to the forefront.
Towards a More Inclusive Future
DBT Ventures’ work is more than just investment; it’s about building an ecosystem where underrepresented founders are given the tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed on a level playing field. By focusing on leadership, customer success, and data science, DBT Ventures is not just changing the game; it’s redefining it for generations to come.
In the words of Luke Diaz, “Our goal is to empower the underdogs, to show that with the right support and resources, they too can do big things.” As DBT Ventures continues to grow and support more startups, its impact will undoubtedly ripple through the industry, inspiring a new wave of diversity, innovation, and success in the startup world.
Listen to the podcast here:
Jason Sherman, the CEO of Spinnr had the pleasure of speaking with Luke about empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. Listen to the podcast episode here:
Watch the video here: