VC Unlocked: Silicon Valley

Diversity Scholarship Admissions

At 500, we strive to support and propel others who are on a mission to uplift people and economies around the world through entrepreneurship. We are excited to offer four full diversity scholarships, reserved for early-stage investors who are committed to supporting diversity within the VC ecosystem.

Nominees who are invited to apply for the program will also have the opportunity to share their interest in applying for a scholarship. Scholarship applications are open to nominees of all backgrounds. We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. The scholarship application deadline is March 29, 2024.

Scholarship Admissions Process

Are you committed to supporting diverse founders? Have you organized meetups for the startup community in different ecosystems? Started a newsletter, podcast or speaker series that serves an underestimated startup or VC ecosystem?

Each year, we select winners from a pool of talented and inspiring candidates. It is an honor for our admissions team to learn about the impact being made by people who are adding incredible value to VC ecosystems around the globe.

Scholarship applications are open to nominees of all backgrounds. Below are the requirements for applicants to qualify for a scholarship:

Have a proven track record of supporting underrepresented founders
Have, or be developing, a purpose driven fund thesis

2023 Diversity Scholarship winners

General Partner, Acasia Ventures

Biola Alabi

Founding Partner, Blue Lake VC

Lyubov Guk

Co-Founder & Principal, Radix Innovation Capital

Jamal Trotman

Investment & Market Development Manager, ICA Fund

Hector Ramos

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 29, 2024

Diversity Scholarship Guidelines

The scholarship application deadline is March 29, 2024. Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview with our Scholarship Committee.

Scholarship winners will be chosen by our Scholarship Committee comprised of VC Unlocked Alumni, 500 Global partners, and SCPD members from varying backgrounds responsible for selecting the VC Unlocked: Silicon Valley scholarship finalists.

Demonstrate Impact

Does your application accurately reflect the impact you’ve made in your community through data? (Ex: “Through my work as the host of the XYZ podcast, I’ve interviewed 200+ diverse founders, etc.”)

Share your story.

Every application is thoroughly read so don’t be shy about sharing what makes you a unique candidate. We know there are many paths to VC and we’re excited to learn about you.

Final scholarship checklist:

Do you support underestimated founders through your work?
Have you been involved in VC for at least one year and/or have a background as an operator with at least 5 years of experience?
Do your future plans continue to focus on working with underestimated founders?