Serena Williams has been unveiled as a new investor in the Bumble Fund. The backing has come from the tennis superstar’s own investment platform called Serena Ventures, which also finances startup companies with women of colour founders.
A total of nine female-led tech companies have received an average of $25,000 each from the Bumble Fund, with the last round of investments being announced on International Women’s Day.
From today, women will be able to apply for funding on the Bumble Bizz platform. Companies will be shortlisted to take part in the pitch competition and the winners will be chosen by Williams and a number of other expert judges.
Williams said in a statement as reported by Forbes: “I’ve learned how impactful one woman’s voice can be when given a platform to speak and be heard.
“I am passionate about building on this progress and opening doors for women of all backgrounds, especially women of color, to share their message and trust in their potential to accomplish great things.
“By joining forces with the Bumble Fund, we will continue amplifying female entrepreneurs and creating a place for them to personally and professionally champion their growth.”
She was the main focus of the social app’s first ever Super Bowl commercial in February. The #InHerCourt campaign encouraged women to make the first move in all aspects of their lives.
The Bumble Film Fund will be returning for its second year and will donate a total of £100,000 to five female filmmakers.
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