Apple announced Wednesday that it will invest $10 million with Harlem Capital as part of their racial equity and justice pledge.
“The unfinished work of racial justice and equality call us all to account,” Apple CEO Tom Cook shared on Twitter. “Things must change, and Apple’s committed to being a force for that change.”
The investment is part of Apple’s $100 million racial equality and justice initiative announced last June. The program will be led by Apple VP Lisa Jackson.
“The initiative will challenge the systemic barriers to opportunity and dignity that exists for communities of color and particularly for the black community,” Apple CEO Tim Cook shared in a video.
Supporting Harlem Capital’s Vision
Apple’s $10 million investment in Harlem Capital will support investments in 1,000 companies with diverse entrepreneurs over the next two decades.
“Ever since I got my first iPod in middle school, I have been an avid Apple fan,” Managing Partner Henri Pierre-Jacques posted on LinkedIn. “To have Harlem Capital and Apple partner is truly a dream come true.”
Harlem Capital, a New York-based venture capital firm, will provide capital to entrepreneurs of color. The firm will also play an instrumental role in helping Apple achieve its broader economic advancement goals in under-resourced communities. Harlem Capital will serve as mentors in Apple’s first Detroit Developer Academy — a program designed to empower young Black entrepreneurs will the skills needed to be proficient in the iOS app economy.
In addition, Harlem Capital will provide support to participants in Apple’s Entrepreneur Camp. This week-long program offers lab sessions, one-on-one expert guidance, and insights from top Apple leaders. At the conclusion of the program, participants join a global network of other leaders.
Furthermore, Apple plans to support Harlem Capital’s internship program. This competitive internship opportunity has attracted thousands of applicants and provided experiences to over 50 interns.
It All Started With A Passion
Founded in 2015, Harlem Capital is a venture capital firm on a mission to change the face of entrepreneurship. The company started with Managing Partners Henri Pierre-Jacques and Jarrid Tingle. The two met as participants in the Management Leadership for Tomorrow career program founded by John Rice.
Once they discovered a shared passion for investing, the two men connected with other friends and formed Harlem Capital in Tingle’s living room. Brandon Bryant and John Henry are also part of the dream team. Now, the venture capital firm is on track to help a new generation of entrepreneurs create change.
“Never underestimate the power of words and visualizing,” Pierre-Jacques shared on LinkedIn.
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