Protecting frontline workers and vulnerable populations. Developing new solutions to solve critical problems. Supporting communities and the safe return to work. Announced today—21 nonprofits, university projects, entrepreneurs, and startups have been selected to receive nearly $1 million in grants from the Booz Allen Foundation Innovation Fund in order to solve critical issues caused by COVID-19.

August 28 is a profoundly important date in the U.S. civil rights movement, and for the Black community. On this date:

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to be a topic of critical importance, especially in these times of heightened racism and social injustice. The good news is that corporate America is paying closer attention to its D&I practices.”

-Deborah Munster, vice president, Diversity Best Practices

“When I say the word innovator, who comes to mind?” Hillarie Flood, a principal with Booz Allen’s Strategic Innovation Group, asked as she kicked off an expert panel discussion. 

Odds are it’s not Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made millionaire in the United States, BET co-founder Sheila Johnson, or even Oprah Winfrey, she said. 

Despite these and many other examples of entrepreneurship success:

• More than 75% rounds raised go to all-white founding teams