Promoting diversity in the startup world is easier said than done. With diversity training having mixed results and companies coming under fire for approaching it incorrectly, developing a diverse workforce that is committed to progress and success can be a lot harder than you previously realized. But when you know there’s a problem, doing nothing is the worst thing you can do.
Fortunately, Preston James, the former chief of the Global Center for Entrepreneurs at Dell Computer, decided to do something about it by launching a diversity-focused startup accelerator in Austin, Texas. Dubbed DivInc, this accelerator is focused on giving women and minority entrepreneurs the mentors, investors and other resources they need to compete in the tech industry today.
“I found there was a tremendous lack of [diversity among the founders] in the startups that were participating in the startup ecosystem,” said James to Xconomy. “And they seemed to be missing out on a lot of the access to resources, education, and network that is really required to be a successful entrepreneur, especially in the tech community.”
If you’re interested in checking out the companies involved in the DivInc’s diversity-focused startup accelerator, check them out below:
BigMouff
BigMouff is an online streaming media platform and recommendation engine for non-musical entertainment and informational audio content based on the user’s selection of speaker, rhetorical style, or topic.
disruptED
This company was created to bring virtual reality and augmented reality educational tools that engage students and impress teachers and parents with our attention to usability ease and smart instructional design that foster fun with education exploration while making sure the experiences are safe and effective for all learners.
FeverFit
FeverFit is a website that helps people discover gyms and studios in their local area. Users can search hundreds of gym/studios and filter by programs, price, reviews
Hairu
Hairu is a platform that encourages safe driving habits by rewarding users for refraining from operating their mobile devices while on the road.
InPharm Global
InPharm Global will be the niche CRM and communication system designed for pharmaceutical companies and investigators to share data and track historical study metrics to reduce the cost and time associated with drug development.
Love Intently
Love Intently is a lifestyle brand and tech platform that empowers couples to build stronger relationships by taking the guesswork out of showing you care.
MiraLend
MiraLend uses a patent-pending method of natural language processing and data analysis to measure creditworthiness of borrowers and lenders by analyzing their social activities and connectedness to their real-world communities.
One2Rule
One2Rule provides a package of pre-programmed smart home devices and access to on-demand services such as transportation and meal/grocery delivery for improve senior living.
Xplosion Tech
Xplosion is developing sensor and wearable technology to track and improve the performance of athletes in all kinds of different sports.