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Why Hundreds of Leaders, Academics and Industry Experts Came Together to Support Racial Equity
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Accelerating economic empowerment
Northwestern Mutual is dedicated to building long-term financial security—security that's often hindered in underserved communities. We're taking bold steps to increase financial knowledge, improve access to capital for small businesses, and advance the ability to build generational wealth.
Advancing multicultural and women-run businesses
We're building an ecosystem for success, increasing access to capital and resources for businesses in underserved groups and communities.
Northwestern Mutual Black Founder Accelerator®
We aim to reduce barriers to financial equity and expand financial access for tech startups who have been historically underserved in accessing capital. Each year, we provide up to 10 entrepreneurs a $100,000 investment, 12 weeks of coaching, and a Northwestern Mutual mentor. Find out more.
Northwestern Mutual Future Ventures
In addition to investing in other startups, our venture capital arm has a goal of investing $20 million each in women and African American/Black entrepreneurs. Find out more.
Northwestern Mutual Milwaukee Business Expansion Fund
We're driving greater access to capital for small businesses impacting the Milwaukee community through competitive loan and equity products. To learn more, please email us with a pitch deck demonstrating impact in the city of Milwaukee and fundraising request.
Investing with Impact
The Northwestern Mutual Impact Investment Fund directs investments to increase access to capital for entrepreneurs and businesses, locally and nationally; develop physical and social infrastructure, including affordable homes and improved school systems; and generate financial returns for our policyowners and investors.
We aspire to reflect the diversity of the marketplace we serve in our supplier and business relationships. Our Supplier/Business Diversity program seeks to give business owners equal opportunity to provide us goods and services—strengthening our supply base and our communities.
Partner with usPromoting financial education to help build generational wealth
Our financial advisors and representatives and our corporate employees work to open dialogues, build awareness, and earn trust in underserved communities. Initiatives include:
- Programming for students
- Community events
- Collaboration with organizations such as the National Urban League and the National Black MBA Association