About Community Capital

In the financial capital of the world, no entrepreneurs or aspiring entrepreneurs should be shut out from bringing the next big idea to life.

Oyate Group’s entrepreneurship program provides three local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with an investment of up to $50,000 and a robust 10-week training program including access to capital, a network of mentors, business and impact models, marketing plans, a coworking space and investor-ready pitch decks.

Founders have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to a panel of esteemed judges in a Shark Tank-style competition to secure capital in exchange for a small percentage of equity that Oyate Group will reinvest in its community programming.

  • First-place wins $50,000
  • Second-place wins $25,000
  • Third-place wins $10,000

2023 Community Capital Applications Closed

The winning entrepreneurs become part of Oyate’s family and are provided continued support after the completion of the program.

2023 Community Capital Winners

Jannelle Cortes

Founder of Groove Trips, secured first place for Groove Trips a subscription-based travel company that creates sustainable, accessible and affordable experiences for BIPOC travelers by personalizing their travel experiences with profiles, travel buddy matching and trip suggestions focusing on art, culture, food and local communities. Groove Trips aims to not only democratize access to travel but also support local economies at these tourist destinations.

Clara Grant

Founder of Skoop, clinched second place for Skoop a visiting veterinary nurse service that offers pet parents in NYC an extra layer of support after their pet has been diagnosed with a chronic condition or may have experienced a crisis or injury. Skoop’s nurses bring their skilled professional services to the homes of pet families to achieve the essential care recommended by their veterinarian.

Charles Sepulveda

Technology & business leader Charles (10+ yrs) brings expertise from Citibank, Salesforce & Rewards Network. He exited his 1st venture at age 26, is currently the US Sales Director @ Tonic 3  and founded Xtraspots in 2022. Charles is an MBA candidate at Questrom (Boston U) and aspires to inspire Bronx tech leaders & build generational wealth. 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Early-stage startups located in The Bronx, Harlem, and Washington Heights

  • Solo founders and a maximum of 4 co-founders
  • Startups or businesses operating within the BIPOC community

  • Early Stage startups operating in the following sectors are eligible for the program: technology, goods and services, healthcare, and design

  • What matters to us is your true potential and attitude. Fill in our 20-minutes form to get started.

Accelerator Program

  • Module 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Innovation

  • Module 2: Market Research and Validation

  • Module 3: Business Model and Planning

  • Module 4: Funding and Financing

  • Module 5: Operations and Management

  • Module 6: Legal and Regulatory Considerations

  • Module 7: Pitching and Presentation Skills

Community Capital Judges

Junior Martinez

President at Hoodspitality Group

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Tomas Ramos

Founder, President & CEO, Oyate Group

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Sebastian Martin

Social Entrepreneur and Educator, Cambio Labs

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Hielly Martinez

Entrepreneur with a portfolio of StateFarm businesses in the Bronx.

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Winners Will Also Receive

  • Access to a modern office space located in the South Bronx, within a vibrant co-working environment exclusively for participating founders.
  • Ongoing mentorship and support are provided by a network of investors and partnering organizations, including VC firms and private investors.

  • Engaging networking opportunities with industry professionals, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs, fostering valuable connections and potential collaborations.

  • Comprehensive training sessions focused on refining your business model, enhancing pitch presentations, and equipping you with the skills to effectively communicate your ideas.

  • Joining an ecosystem of exceptionally talented founders who, like you, are dedicated to scaling and growing their ventures. Together, you will navigate the challenges and triumphs of the entrepreneurial journey, providing support and shared experiences.