Politics Done Right: Cheryl Contee on Making a Difference for Women and Progressives in the VC Space

At The Impact Seat Foundation, we've built our reputation on championing innovation, uplifting entrepreneurial ambition, and as a result, boosting economic health for all. In the latest episode of Politics Done Right, our CEO Cheryl Contee talks with host Egberto Willies about the pressing need for an equitable distribution of resources among Black entrepreneurs in the venture capital realm. 

“There’s a market distortion happening called racism and sexism… if Black women are launching most of the companies they should be getting most of the investments, end of story,” says Cheryl.

There's an undeniable and disheartening reality we must confront: historically marginalized founders are often sidelined when it comes to investment opportunities. As Cheryl and Egberto express, addressing this disparity is not just about championing social justice; it's also about recognizing the vast economic potential that remains untapped. 

“If your argument is you are trying to make the most money, and trying to get your shareholders the best return on investment, all of the studies show that diverse led firms are more innovative, they are more productive, they are more profitable,” said Cheryl. “When they exit they tend to exit at higher multiples, and they are more capital efficient because they have to be.”

“If your argument is ‘I need to invest’… you’re missing out on getting the highest return on investment because you’re not investing in the right people.”

This insightful exchange not only underlined our unwavering commitment to facilitating venture capital for Black entrepreneurs but also cast a light on the complex fabric of the Progressive movement.

In her interview, Cheryl also touches on her influential role at Netroots Nation as their first Black female Board Chair, and talks about how she’s using diversity within the organization, and throughout the progressive sphere, as a superpower. We, at The Impact Seat Foundation, are invigorated and deeply thankful to Politics Done Right for catalyzing this essential discussion.

Watch the podcast here!