VC fellowship delivers new boost to diversity across venture capital

The fellowship programme offers a different route to the traditional MBA qualification into a job in venture capital. The programme, now in its second cycle, removes accessibility barriers for people pursuing opportunities from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. As the only global fellowship dedicated to maximising diversity, the programme offers fully funded learning, professional coaching and networking opportunities. 

In stark contrast, MBA programmes and paid fellowships can cost up to $80K. 

With 22 out of a total of 45 fellows participating in the second programme, the fellowship continues to be in a strong position ahead of its third year set to launch in 2022. The programme is currently supported by industry giants, including HSBC Ventures, Kaya VC, Notion Capital and Microsoft’s venture capital fund, M12. 

Founder of the programme and General Partner at Notion VC, Chris Tottman said the success of the fellowship would not have been possible without the support of industry partners. 

“A truly diverse VC ecosystem can only be achieved through real commitments to bring in people from underrepresented communities, connect them into the incredible existing networks and provide the necessary career support they need to transform the industry.” 

The current fellowship hosted the greatest number of nationalities yet, signalling a growing commitment to diversity in the industry. The class of 2021 boasted 25 nationalities, from 21 countries calling 31 cities home. Spanning an age range of 19-45, 31% of fellows are black, 31% Asian, 12% mixed raise while a total of 52% identified as women. A further 17% represented the LGBTQIA+ community.

Fellows will now join the ranks of industry leaders and alumni fellows, including Founders Factory, Capital T, Atomico, Octopus Ventures, Frontline, and Warner Ventures. 

Looking ahead to the third fellowship, Cofounder and CEO of Included VC, Nikita Thakrar said “An overwhelming number of Included VC’s second Fellowship, from every background and corner of the world, have been placed in top tier jobs within the VC ecosystem.”

“Fellowship II demonstrated an increasing global presence and Included VC will for the third consecutive year again expand the next Fellowship cohort, doubling last year’s total to welcome 100 new Fellows.” 

Applications are now open for the third fellowship.