Closing the Tech Funding Gap

by Mariah Lichtenstern

Download Executive Summary


Current technology startup capitalization policies put under-represented tech startup founders at a disadvantage, contributing to discriminatory financing practices that cost the U.S. an estimated 9 million jobs and $300 billion in collective national income due to discrimination. At the same time, regulations prevent most Americans from qualifying as “accredited investors” and supporting these founders equitably. This project recommends that the Securities and Exchange Commission dismantle discriminatory investor criteria and separate and unequal offerings  related to the accredited investor definition. It also recommends that existing institutional investors pledge to create opportunities for diverse and emerging managers to help establish their track records. These solutions can advance equitable tech startup funding.

Click below to view various resources for tech funding equity including a policy brief, a white paper, and infographics to further illustrate the issue.



Read the Policy Brief
Explore the Website
Read the Opportunity Pledge White Paper
View the Opportunity Pledge Highlights
View the Opportunity Pledge Framework Infographic
View the Accredited vs. Non-Accredited Investor Explainer
View the Access to Capital Gap Infographic
Sign the Petition to Ask the SEC to Democratize Accreditation
View the Demo Day Presentation
Read the Law360 Article