Arlan Hamilton: Inspiring Innovation
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- Visionary Investor: Arlan Hamilton is a visionary investor renowned for her groundbreaking work in venture capital. Despite facing significant barriers, she founded Backstage Capital, a venture capital fund dedicated to investing in underrepresented founders, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Champion of Diversity: Hamilton's mission to democratize venture capital has made her a champion of diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. Through Backstage Capital, she has empowered countless entrepreneurs from marginalized communities, reshaping the landscape of innovation and opportunity.
- Trailblazing Entrepreneur: As a self-taught investor and entrepreneur, Hamilton's journey to success is a testament to her resilience and determination. Her unconventional path serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with grit and perseverance, anything is possible.
- Advocate for Change: Hamilton is not only an investor but also a vocal advocate for systemic change within the venture capital industry. Through her advocacy work, she sheds light on the disparities faced by underrepresented founders and pushes for greater diversity and equity in access to capital.
- Inspiring Story: Hamilton's remarkable story—from sleeping on airport floors to building a multi-million dollar venture capital fund—inspires audiences worldwide. Her unwavering commitment to leveling the playing field and amplifying diverse voices serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers everywhere.
- Travels from: San Francisco, CA
- **Fee range: $50,001 - $75,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Most Popular Keynotes
- “It’s About Damn Time” – How to Turn Being Underestimated Into Your Greatest Advantage
- Breaking Rules While Breaking Ground
- Being the Change You Want to See
- Garnering Attention in a Crowded Landscape
- Launching Startups with Humanity
- Black Women in Tech
- Ecosystem Innovation
- Bootstrapping a Venture Capital Fund
- Approaching Investors
- Managing a Remote Team
Read Full Bio
Arlan Hamilton is a trailblazing entrepreneur who defies the odds and inspires countless individuals with her remarkable journey. Rising from homelessness to becoming a prominent figure in the venture capital industry, she is the epitome of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in her vision. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Backstage Capital, Arlan has not only disrupted the status quo but has also become a beacon of hope for underestimated founders around the globe.
Arlan Hamilton | Inspiring Innovation
Early Life and Background:
Arlan Hamilton’s story is one of grit and perseverance. Born and raised in Texas, she had a passion for music from a young age and dreamt of working in the entertainment industry. However, her life took an unexpected turn when she found herself homeless in her mid-30s. Despite facing numerous challenges, Arlan refused to let her circumstances define her future. Instead, she channeled her resilience and determination into building something extraordinary.
The Birth of Backstage Capital:
In 2015, Arlan Hamilton founded Backstage Capital, a venture capital firm with a mission to support underestimated founders in the tech industry. Recognizing the systemic barriers faced by people of color, women, and LGBT individuals in accessing funding, Arlan set out to level the playing field. With a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of the untapped potential within marginalized communities, she embarked on a journey to make a difference.
Investing in Diversity and Inclusion:
Backstage Capital is dedicated to minimizing funding disparities by investing in high-potential startups led by underestimated founders. Since its inception, the firm has invested over $15 million in 175 startups, spanning various industries and sectors. Through strategic investments and mentorship programs, Backstage Capital empowers founders to turn their visions into reality and disrupt the status quo.
Recognition and Impact:
Arlan Hamilton’s groundbreaking work with Backstage Capital has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. The firm has been featured in esteemed publications such as Forbes, Fortune, The Wall Street Journal, CNN Money, Inc., Entrepreneur, and Quartz, shining a spotlight on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the tech ecosystem. Arlan herself has been lauded as a visionary leader and a driving force for change.
Why Event Planners Should Book Arlan Hamilton:
- Inspiring Storytelling: Arlan’s journey from homelessness to building a successful venture capital fund is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Her compelling storytelling captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impact, inspiring individuals to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams.
- Thought Leadership: As a thought leader in the venture capital industry, Arlan brings a unique perspective on diversity, inclusion, and innovation. Her insights challenge conventional wisdom and spark meaningful conversations about the future of entrepreneurship and technology.
- Diversity and Inclusion: In today’s increasingly diverse world, fostering inclusivity is more important than ever. Arlan’s advocacy for underestimated founders resonates with audiences across industries, driving home the message that diversity isn’t just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage.
- Practical Strategies: Through her experiences at Backstage Capital, Arlan offers practical strategies and actionable advice for organizations looking to foster diversity and inclusion. Whether it’s through investment opportunities or mentorship programs, she provides tangible solutions for addressing systemic barriers and driving positive change.
- Empowering Leadership: As a female entrepreneur and member of the LGBT community, Arlan serves as a role model for aspiring founders from diverse backgrounds. Her leadership style emphasizes empowerment, collaboration, and authenticity, inspiring individuals to embrace their unique identities and make a difference in the world.
In conclusion, Arlan Hamilton is more than just an entrepreneur – she is a visionary leader, a champion of diversity and inclusion, and a beacon of hope for underestimated founders everywhere. By booking Arlan as a speaker through Speakers Inc, event planners have the opportunity to inspire their audiences, spark meaningful conversations, and drive positive change in their organizations and communities.
This profile aims to capture the essence of Arlan Hamilton’s remarkable journey and the impact she has made through her work with Backstage Capital. It highlights her inspiring story, the mission of her venture capital firm, and why event planners should consider booking her as a speaker for their events.
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