Throughout my life, I’ve been a relentless advocate for those who often find themselves without a voice. My work with Zane Venture Fund was born from a desire to invest in diverse founders in overlooked regions, supporting tech-enabled solutions that create positive, lasting impact. Last year, when The Fearless Fund faced a wrongful lawsuit, I didn’t hesitate to organize a campaign rallying support. Speaking out is in my DNA, and it’s this same drive that led me to catalyze the VC movement behind Vice President Kamala Harris.
When I think of Kamala Harris, I see a leader who embodies the same principles I’ve built my career around — someone who stands up for those who aren’t in the room and fights for a seat at the table for all. As the first Black female Vice President in our nation’s history, her presence alone is monumental. But the potential of her becoming President is even more significant. Representation at this level isn’t just important; it’s inspiring. For me and many others in my community, Harris represents a future where our voices are heard, our struggles are understood, and our triumphs are celebrated.
This election isn’t just about who sits in the Oval Office — it’s about safeguarding democracy itself. The stakes couldn’t be higher. When others rallied behind President Biden, a group of Black women and allies, myself included, recognized that Harris needed our full support. So, when Biden endorsed Harris, I didn’t hesitate to act. I began reaching out to fellow women VCs, brainstorming ways to galvanize support. It was Leslie Feinzaig, another VC founder, who suggested forming VCs for Harris. I was the first to raise my hand, eager to lend my network and platform to the cause.
I knew we needed momentum, and quickly. So, I reached out to Mark Cuban, asking for his support and signature on our letter. His immediate endorsement was the spark we needed. From there, our numbers grew exponentially. I connected with Kristy McCann Flynn from SkillCycle, who brought Reid Hoffman into the fold, further amplifying our efforts. What started as 100 VCs quickly ballooned to 400, and now nearly 1,000 VCs across the country have pledged their support for Harris. The list continues to grow, and we’ve raised thousands of dollars for Harris through virtual fundraising events.
Many may not fully grasp how instrumental Harris has been — both behind the scenes and out front — during her time as Vice President. I didn’t hesitate to rally behind her because I know what she stands for. She believes in entrepreneurship, tech, and business. She’s deeply committed to equity and access for all. I’ve seen her in action in my hometown of Atlanta, GA, where she’s met with the business community, genuinely listening to the challenges entrepreneurs face and seeking solutions. She’s done the same in North Carolina and beyond. Her commitment to innovation and progress is clear, standing in stark contrast to the regressive policies of the Trump era.
I can’t sit idly by while so much is at stake. That’s why, during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, IL, we organized a midweek mixer to keep the momentum going. Harris is also expected to be in San Francisco, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, in September 2024, where we’ll host additional events and activations. We are also conducting events in Atlanta, GA, in a few weeks. This is a crucial moment in time. We must continue to join forces, stand up for what’s right, and ensure our voices are heard.
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Editorial Note: Opinions and thoughts are the writers’ own and not those of AFROTECH
Shila Nieves Burney is founder and managing partner at Zane Venture Fund.
