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Black Ambition Opens 2026 Founder Lab Applications

Fundable Founders Learning Lab applications are open for Black Ambition’s free 2026 virtual program for Florida-based founders.

By Working Wikily Newsroom
Three panelists with microphones speak before a Momentum Miami, JPMorgan Chase and Black Ambition backdrop.
Image: Black Ambition

Black Ambition has opened applications for its 2026 Fundable Founders Learning Lab, a free virtual program for accepted Florida-based founders. Applications run from July 1 through August 4, 2026, and the 10-week program will run from August 18 through October 20. Designed for South Florida entrepreneurs, including underrepresented founders, the lab covers capital readiness, marketing, partnerships, customer development, and AI-enabled growth. It follows a 2025 cohort of more than 380 entrepreneurs that reported more than $274,000 in capital, about 51 new jobs, and more than 500 measurable business wins.

A Free Virtual Program

The Fundable Founders Learning Lab will offer expert-led virtual sessions, practical tools and frameworks, curated exposure and strategic connections to capital, and ongoing access to Black Ambition’s network and alumni resources. JPMorganChase’s Startup Business banking units will also provide information on business operations and funding best practices.

The program will conclude with the Fundable Founders Forum, a community-driven conference bringing together founders, investors, and innovators for an afternoon of strategy and implementation support.

“We are excited to enter our second year of the Fundable Founders Learning Labs, allowing us to expand the amount of support we can deliver to businesses across Miami. This isn't about chasing funding; it's about helping to build a business ecosystem that is ready to receive it and make real impact. We look forward to continuing our work with JPMorganChase to make this program as beneficial and successful as possible.”

Felecia Hatcher, CEO at Black Ambition

Building On 2025 Results

Black Ambition launched the lab in 2025 with a $1 million philanthropic contribution from JPMorganChase. Founders in last year’s cohort worked across consumer products, technology, AI, healthcare, and media and entertainment.

Participants left weekly sessions with work on pricing strategies, messaging, capital asks, automated workflows, and AI systems. Black Ambition reported that 82% of participants gave the program a 5 out of 5 rating.

“JPMorganChase is thrilled to work alongside Black Ambition for the second year in a row to support, catalyze, and amplify South Florida's small businesses. Together, we are expanding access to training, mentorship, and strategic resources, and helping founders build stronger, more resilient businesses.”

Maria Escorcia, Southeast Region Executive and Executive Director of Global Philanthropy at JPMorganChase

A Founder’s Experience

GameDrive founder Christopher Green participated in the 2025 program. He described gaining a clearer direction for the company’s investor outreach and growth plans.

“Before joining Fundable Founders Lab, I was navigating the startup journey mostly on instinct and grit. The structured guidance, supportive community, and actionable content gave me clarity and confidence to refine GameDrive's vision. One key win: we're now actively engaging investors with a sharper pitch and a more focused growth strategy. This program helped turn momentum into measurable progress.”

Christopher Green, Founder at GameDrive

Information Sessions And Applications

Founders can join virtual information sessions on July 14, 2026 and July 24, 2026 before applying. Black Ambition also points prospective participants to its Fundable Founder Marketplace.

Founded by Pharrell Williams, Black Ambition reports that it has supported more than 1,177 founders, awarded about $14 million in funding, and helped its network raise more than $297 million in follow-on capital. For Florida-based founders seeking structured support at no cost, the 2026 lab offers a practical route to prepare for capital and strengthen business operations.

From an announcement by Black Ambition.

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