A SEEN Summit Success
This fall, Tech:NYC and Visible Hands held the inaugural SEEN Summit, bringing together a host of founders, investors, and allies dedicated to championing diverse-led teams. The event, coinciding with New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC)’s Venture Access Alliance, was a testament to New York’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic tech ecosystem. The event marked the launch of the inaugural SEEN 50 – a curated list of founders from diverse backgrounds leading transformational startups in NYC.
A Day of Insightful Dialogues and Networking
Octavius Moore, Tech:NYC’s Director of Platform, and Justin Kang, General Partner at Visible Hands, kicked off the summit by emphasizing the importance of collaboration in sustaining New York's competitive edge in the tech industry.
Fred Wilson, Co-founder and Partner at Union Square Ventures (and Chair of the Tech:NYC board), and Jarrid Tingle, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Harlem Capital (also on our board), spoke with NYEDC’s Fernando Montejo about the one-year anniversary of the Venture Access Alliance. As co-chairs of the VAA, they shared their perspectives on how founders and investors can work together to drive innovation and inclusivity within the city's tech landscape.
Exploring Funding Pathways
The summit's agenda addressed the critical challenge of fundraising for underrepresented founders. Panels like "The New VC Playbook," "Alternative Pathways to Funding," and “How I Raised” provided attendees with actionable insights into securing capital through both traditional and innovative avenues.
These sessions featured superstar founders, investors, and operators including AlleyCorp’s Desiree Almodovar, Harlem Capital’s Gabby Cazeau, H/L Ventures’ Oliver Libby, M13’s Morgan Blumberg, Rho’s Justin Wolz, Dollaride’s Su Sanni, Secure Bags’ Daniel Taylor, NYCEDC’s Daria Siegel, itselectric’s Tiya Gordon, Canid’s Pedro Sanchez de Lozada, Starcycle’s Jaclyn Siu, and NextNYC’s Charlie O’Donnell, who shared their expertise on navigating the evolving funding landscape.
Celebrating the SEEN 50
A special segment of the Summit was dedicated to honoring the SEEN 50 — a group of extraordinary founders from underrepresented backgrounds who are redefining industries and driving change in the startup ecosystem. After the panels ended, the group headed over to the SEEN Social for remarks from NYCEDC President Andrew Kimball and more networking.
Looking Ahead
The SEEN Summit was more than just an event; it was a movement toward a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem in New York City. As we reflect on the meaningful connections and knowledge shared, we are inspired to continue this momentum, ensuring that all founders have the support and resources they need to thrive.
As Octavius and Justin started the event by highlighting — collaboration is key. Tech:NYC is proud to be able to co-host the event with Visible Hands in partnership with NYCEDC, and grateful to Rho for their support and commitment to fostering diversity and innovation within New York's tech community.
Photos credit: Erica Price