Arlan Hamilton
VCFounder & Chairperson, Backstage Capital
VC championing underrepresented and underestimated founders
Background
Arlan Hamilton founded Backstage Capital in 2015, famously building the firm while homeless and without prior venture capital experience. The firm is dedicated to minimizing funding disparities in tech by investing in founders who are people of color, women, and/or LGBTQ+. Hamilton has invested in over 200 companies and her goal is to create 1,000 Black millionaires through entrepreneurship. In December 2024, she transitioned from Managing Partner to a Chairperson and advisory role as the firm partnered with 360 Venture Collective and plans a $200M fund. She is also the author of 'It's About Damn Time' and hosts the 'Your First Million' podcast.
Investment Thesis
Underrepresented founders are an overlooked business opportunity; diversifying the VC pipeline generates outsized returns.
Investment Focus
Stages
Sectors
Based in: USA (North America)
Notable Investments
Career Karma
Workforce training platform
Goalsetter
Financial literacy app for kids
Hello Alice
Small business support platform
Mahmee
Maternal healthcare platform
Guava
Black-owned fintech banking platform for Black small businesses
SoLo Funds
Community lending platform for short-term financial needs
Partake Foods
Allergy-friendly snack brand
Candidly
Student debt and financial wellness benefits platform