BK-XL
Overview
An early-stage startup accelerator program based in Brooklyn, focusing on supporting underrepresented founders. Powered by the Joe and Clara Tsai Foundation’s Social Justice Fund, BK-XL offers a ten-week program providing participants with access to early-stage venture financing, office space in Brooklyn, and ongoing mentorship from investors and operators at Blue Pool Capital, Udy Road Holdings, BSE Global, the Brooklyn Nets, and Barclays Center. The program is industry-agnostic, welcoming technology-enabled businesses in any sector. Each selected company receives a $125,000 investment for 7% equity on a post-money SAFE, with the opportunity for follow-on investments within 12 months of program completion. Applications for the 2024 cohort are now closed, but rolling applications are still accepted. For more information, visit their official website. The accelerator is co-led by Chris Martinez and Timi Dayo-Kayode. BK-XL is open to founders of all backgrounds, especially those from underrepresented communities. Founders can be based outside of NYC but must commit to building their startup full-time in Brooklyn for the entirety of the 10-week program. The program runs from July to September each year. For detailed information on eligibility and investment terms, refer to their official website. BK-XL is the brainchild of Clara Wu Tsai and the Social Justice Fund. Through the Social Justice Fund, she supports economic mobility within communities across the borough. BK-XL is a critical component of SJF’s mission to use our platform to unite people around a shared commitment to inclusiveness, justice, and equal opportunity.
Investment Focus
- Technology-enabled businesses in any sector
- Commitment to building the startup full-time in Brooklyn for the duration of the 10-week program
Portfolio Companies
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Verified work email, phone and LinkedIn for the full team — one spreadsheet, one payment, yours to keep.
Unlock full contacts →Frequently asked questions about BK-XL
What sectors does BK-XL invest in?
BK-XL invests in Technology, Software, Beauty, Internet of Things, Health and Wellness and Consumer Electronics, and is based in New York, United States. BK-XL is listed as a venture capital in the ConnectSafely investor database.
What stage does BK-XL invest at?
BK-XL backs companies at Pre-Seed and Seed, writing cheques of 100K - 500K.
Which regions does BK-XL invest in?
BK-XL invests across United States.
Who are the partners at BK-XL?
Team members listed for BK-XL include Clara Wu Tsai (Founder).
What companies has BK-XL invested in?
BK-XL's portfolio includes Afar Foods, Maraboo, NatML, Peepalytics AI and Ambessa Play.
How do I contact BK-XL?
BK-XL's contact details — including LinkedIn — are listed in the ConnectSafely investor database, along with its website and the LinkedIn profiles of its partners.
Last updated · Source: ConnectSafely investor database