Accelerating Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship

(ABLE)

Fostering Diaspora-led Innovation

ABLE is designed to support impact-orientated businesses in the United States which are addressing essential community needs and driving innovative solutions. The program is committed to providing entrepreneurs from historically disadvantaged communities and connections to Africa with access to capital and investor-readiness training by connecting participants with industry leaders.

Program Goals

We’re excited to host this year’s Pitch Day at Ernst & Young San Jose on October 22nd. Join us for an exhilarating day of pitches as 20 founders share their visions for the future.

Watch highlights from the 2025 Pitch Day that was held at BILL HQ

Participating in the ABLE 2025 Pitch Day was an energizing and transformative experience...it was a masterclass in clarity, storytelling, and strategic communication. Being part of the ABLE Pitch Series has expanded my network with investors, advisors, and fellow founders who are as passionate about problem-solving as I am. It’s also given me the confidence and framework to position my company for sustainable growth—translating vision into an investable and scalable business.
Harriet Kamendi
CEO, Kandih Group LC, ABLE’25

Interested in sponsoring Pitch Day?

We invite you to partner with us to sponsor ABLE Pitch Day 2026, the culminating showcase of our entrepreneurship accelerator program where high-potential founders build the relationships that can lead to investment, strategic partnerships, customers, and long-term growth

Program Benefits

Tailored Entrepreneur and Leadership Training

Benefit from a fully funded, high-quality accelerator experience designed specifically for early-stage, revenue-generating startups led by African diaspora entrepreneurs.

Access to Capital and Markets

Connect with investors, funders, and business leaders in Silicon Valley and beyond, opening doors to funding opportunities and global markets

Pitch to Distinguished Networks

Showcase your venture to ADN’s community of investors, advisors, and partners, building visibility among decision-makers and potential supporters.

Expert Mentorship

Work directly with experienced mentors who provide guidance on scaling, investor-readiness, and navigating the start-up landscape.

Join a Thriving Ecosystem

Become part of the African Diaspora Network’s growing and supportive entrepreneurial community, sharing experiences, partnerships, and opportunities long after the program ends.

Financial Award

Participants who successfully complete the program will be eligible to receive a financial award

Our Impact So Far

ABLE 2025 Impact Report

ABLE Program Advisory Committee Members

ABLE Facilitators

Richard Ayllon
Investor | Strategic Advisor | Life Sciences & Tech
Taimur Case
Partner, Corporate at Fenwick
Hatim Chraibi
Executive-in-Residence
Dr. Bassam EL-Fahmawi, PhD
CEO & CTO, Mawi DNA Technologies
Joanne Fedeyko
Global Ecosystem Builder & Champion for Female Entrepreneurs
Saad Hassan
Associate, Intellectual Property at Fenwick & West
Linsey Krolik
Director, TechEdge JD, Entrepreneurs’ Law Clinic; Assistant Clinical Professor of Law
Reanne Swafford-Harris
Associate, Litigation at Fenwick

ABLE Team

Hatim Chraibi
Executive-in-Residence
Rose Essiem
Rose Essiem
Entrepreneurship Programs Manager
Omolayo Nkem Oyudo
Director of Programs and Operations, ADN

Get Involved

We are deeply appreciative for the unwavering support of our funders, partners, mentors and reviewers who make this work possible. We welcome you to join us in this important mission–your contributions will make a real difference. Email Rose Essiem, Entrepreneurship Programs Manager, at rose@africandiasporanetwork.org for more information on how to get involved.

ABLE cohort for website home banner 3

Funders

Lead Funder

KLA Logo

Funder

Ecosystem Partners