Robert Gordon

BLCK VC

If anyone understands the inequity that exists in the allocation of venture capital and the importance of venture capital dollars to wealth creation and financial independence for diverse communities, it is Robert Gordon IV. As the as the CEO of BLK VC, he stands at the forefront of fostering diversity and inclusion in the broader venture capital ecosystem. With a rich and accomplished career in technology business development and as a member of the prestigious scout networks of Sequoia and Lightspeed Venture Partners, he is the ideal leader of an organization tasked with addressing significant disparities -- less than 3% of venture capital investment goes to Black company founders and only 3% of venture capital investors are Black. These statistics don’t scare Gordon, they motivate him to advance BLCK VC’s mission to connect, engage, empower, and advance Black venture investors. As the nonprofit’s website boldly states, “We do not accept the status quo; we are driving the industry forward by pushing venture capital firms to become more inclusive in their hiring, deal flow, and portfolios.” As we enter one of the most difficult venture environments, do not expect the industry headwinds to slow down the progress of Gordon and BLCK VC.