“Let's Talk Impact” Podcast With Marcus Glover @ Lockstep Ventures
Who is Marcus Glover?
Marcus Glover is the Co-founder and Managing Director of Lockstep Ventures, a venture capital firm that seeks to address issues that perpetuate racial inequality in the U.S.
Marcus has a mission to reimagine equity for Black America and is dedicated to investing and advising Black and women-led companies that are often overlooked, underfunded and underserved. As a leader of Lockstep Ventures, he has turned his passion into meaningful change while also inspiring and empowering a systematic shift in tandem with delivering investor returns.
In addition to his work with Lockstep Ventures, Marcus serves on the National Board of Directors of Defy Ventures, which advocates for criminal justice reform and lowering recidivism by building on incarcerated men and women's natural talents through entrepreneurship business ownership. Marcus also serves on the Time@100 Advisory Board.
Previously, Marcus was the Founding Partner of private equity firm M. Glover Capital. He has also served as a Global Creative Director and Chief Marketing Officer, producing some of the most memorable advertising campaigns within pop culture, urban lifestyle, music, sports, entertainment, including the number three most popular Super Bowl commercial in history. Marcus has also created successful ventures with some of the world's most beloved celebrities and athletes including, Muhammad Ali, Lil Wayne, and will.i.am. This has led to his being an advisor for early-stage ventures, leading workshops on brand and personal storytelling for founders and leaders.
Outside of his VC and marketing work, Marcus has a passion for teaching youth and is a leader of yoga and meditation juvenile programs at prisons and jails in New York State as a board director for the organization Liberation Prison Yoga. He also served as an executive producer for films, A Beautiful Game and Bilal: A New Breed of Hero, and on the board for the Harlem Arts Festival.
Hosted by Justyna Kedra & produced by Janusz Kedra
Why Funding Underrepresented Founders is a Win-Win for Everyone
The world of venture capital (VC) has traditionally been a boys' club. However, a tide is turning, and there's a growing movement to support underrepresented founders – those from racial and ethnic minorities, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. But why should we care? Because it's not just about fairness, it's about unlocking a massive economic engine.
Innovation Needs Diversity
Imagine a world where all the brightest ideas come from the same homogenous group. Yawn, right? Studies show that diverse teams outperform in the long run. Underrepresented founders bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table, leading to solutions that might otherwise be overlooked. By funding these ventures, we tap into a whole new wellspring of innovation, fostering groundbreaking companies that benefit everyone.
Untapped Potential, Untapped Profits
Let's face it, the current system is leaving money on the table. Research suggests that VC-backed startups with diverse leadership generate stronger returns. That's right, supporting underrepresented founders isn't just morally right, it's good business. By opening the doors to a wider range of founders, we're fueling economic growth and creating a more prosperous future.
Building a Stronger Ecosystem
A thriving economy needs a diverse range of businesses. When we support underrepresented founders, we're not just helping individual companies, we're creating a more vibrant and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem. This benefits everyone, from established corporations to everyday consumers who gain access to a wider range of products and services.
It's Time to Break the Mold
The traditional VC model often relies on pattern matching, favoring founders who fit a specific mold. This overlooks the potential of amazing ideas from those who don't check the usual boxes. By actively seeking out and supporting underrepresented founders, we're sending a powerful message: innovation thrives on inclusion.
So, let's get passionate about creating a level playing field in the world of VC. It's not just the right thing to do, it's a smart investment in a brighter economic future for all. Now, go out there and champion the next generation of groundbreaking companies – regardless of who's at the helm!
