Hello there,

If you are reading our newsletter from the States, how was last week’s Independence Day? We hope you commemorated it with fireworks, parades, barbecues, family reunions, and a much-needed rest.

This newsletter offers a plethora of grants and funding opportunities. For our US-based readers, consider it our Independence Day gift to you.

Glad to have you back, though.

If you're interested in sponsoring our newsletter, Geekz Insider, please contact us at [email protected].

Come on, let’s dive into this the latest edition of Geekz Insider.

Top Stories 📰

Story 1: Gen Z stands at the forefront of a digital revolution, having grown up in an age where technology seamlessly integrated into daily life. Born between 1996 and 2013, this cohort has swiftly become a disruptive force in the entrepreneurial realm. These Gen Z entrepreneurs are building business empires despite their tender ages.

Story 2: UrbanGeekz spotlights 10 Black-owned startups outside Silicon Valley's disruptive ecosystem that have caught the eye of investors. We asked VCs from MaC Venture Capital, Symphonic Capital, Zeal Capital Partners, and Techstars Washington DC to find out.

Story 3: An Ivy League University now offers degree programs in Artificial Intelligence. The University of Pennsylvania is the first Ivy to provide an AI Master’s program. The first cohort of students in the MSE in Artificial Intelligence program will start classes in spring 2025, with applications opening on June 3, 2024.

Story 4: Meet The 2024 Google for Startups Founders Funds Recipients. These companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable with AI,  from developing innovative solutions to prevent wildfires to diverting millions of tons of fast fashion from landfills and helping millions of community college learners successfully transfer and acquire four-year degrees. 

Hot News 🔥

1. UrbanGeekz founder and CEO Kunbi Tinuoye joined a host of influential tech leaders on the main stage at London Tech Week.

2. Silicon Valley holds 59% of total ecosystem value within the top five global ecosystems, according to the GSER 2024 Report.

3. Maternal healthcare tech innovator Emagine Solutions Technology and Google’s wireless-enabled wearable technology company, Fitbit, have announced an exciting new collaboration. 

4. The popular Despicable Me animated movie series is back with its fourth iteration, Despicable Me 4.

 Opportunities 💼

Accelerators 🚀

1. The RBC Women in Cleantech Accelerator recruits 7-10 outstanding women entrepreneurs for a two-year program to advance their breakthrough ideas into market-ready cleantech products with potential global impact.

2. Google for Startups Accelerator: Climate Change is a 10-week, equity-free hybrid program for Seed to Series A startups in Europe and Israel tackling Climate Change with tech.

3. Retail Brand Accelerator: The Retail Brand Accelerator provides tailored education, mentorship, and resources that prepare diverse founders to break through and succeed in mass retail.

 Grants💰

1. Up to $10K | Accion Opportunity Fund LegalZoom, the NBA, WNBA, and NBA G-League have joined forces to provide entrepreneurs nationwide with grants and LegalZoom services to support their small businesses. Apply by 9/13

2. $500-$2K | Wish is allocating grants and financial support to Black-owned small businesses to help promote equality and diversity in American business. Apply now

3. $1K | Edwards & Edwards Management Entrepreneur Grant opportunity for black-owned small businesses in the United States Rolling application

4. $10K | SoGal Foundation offers grants and tactical help to Black women or nonbinary entrepreneurs who want to scale their businesses. Rolling application

5. $10K | Accion Opportunity Fund equips US-based entrepreneurs with the tools and resources to start and scale their businesses.
   Apply by 9/13 

6. $10K | The Social Shifters Global Innovation Challenge allows young entrepreneurs and change-makers to compete for multiple grant awards to fund work that improves lives, helps communities, and protects the planet. Apply by 7/31

   Events🎟️

Don't miss out on the exciting NIL Combine event hosted by Athletes Making Moves. This unique opportunity empowers athletes to maximize their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) potential. Network with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and elevate your brand. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the NIL Combine is your gateway to success.

Date: 26-27 July 2024

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Thank you for joining us in this edition of Geekz Insider. We hope the stories and opportunities we've shared ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and fuel your drive to innovate. From groundbreaking Gen Z entrepreneurs to transformative AI programs and valuable grants, there's something here to inspire everyone.

Don’t forget to contact us at [email protected] If you're interested in sponsoring our newsletter, Geekz Insider.

Until next time, keep hustling and making those geeky dreams come true!

Warm regards,

The Geekz Insider Team