We did it, Joe!

This morning, I had the honor of watching Kamala Harris being sworn in as the first female and first black Vice President of the United States. Although I knew this moment was coming, when Kamala put her hand on Thurgood Marshall’s bible to recite her oath of office, I felt hopeful and optimistic that change is coming. However, I could not ignore the harsh reality that just 2 weeks ago, at this same location, domestic terrorists tried to overthrow our government. This stark contrast between a white supremacist coup and a black woman being sworn in as VP made me think about the concept of change. Can we actually change people? Can we actually change culture? Can we actually change a country? If yes, how?

As I reflected on that question, I thought about how VCs and investors can contribute to widespread cultural change by funding companies aligned with certain values (a mission, if you will). By doing so, VCs can ensure that their investments pay off regardless of revenues or exit results. As we move into a new era of change, here are four values I am focused on in 2021:

EMPOWER: Invest in companies that empower underestimated founders and serve underrepresented markets.

As we’ve seen with this country, we are strongest when we accept and celebrate our differences. Investing is no different, but there are still so many founders and markets that remain overlooked by “traditional” investors. As a black woman, I know all too well that this is not due to a lack of founders worth investing in (“ThErE’s No DeAl fLoW”), but rather a lack of investors that see their worth. By creating a more inclusive investment community, VCs will benefit not only founders, but also investors and LPs.

My Pick: Liberate Meditation App (liberatemeditation.com) Black-owned meditation app for the Black community (for us, by us)

EDUCATE: Invest in companies that are bridging the education gap and making information more accessible.

I am a firm believer that ignorance is the root of hate and that education is one of the most effective ways to change mindsets. In addition to the positive cultural impact of increased education, I believe the EdTech sector is poised to continue benefiting from the shift to remote learning and the workforce transformation resulting from COVID-19. Don’t hate! EDUCATE!!

My Pick: uLesson (uLesson.com) Making high quality education accessible and affordable for African students

SUSTAIN: Invest in companies offering sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives.

For the past four years, we had an administration that ignored scientists and disputed the existence of climate change. Thankfully, Biden and Harris are offering a new, science-based approach to addressing climate change, including rejoining the Paris climate accord. A majority of Americans continue to say they see the effects of climate change, and surveys show that 2/3 of the population believes more should be done about climate change. With climate change continuing to impact our daily lives, customers are looking for sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives that align with their beliefs.

My Pick: Rebundle Braid Better (Rebundle.co) braiding hair made from non-toxic, biodegradable plant that is better for your scalp and the environment (I already ordered mine)

CONNECT: Invest in companies that connect people.

As President Joe Biden and Vice President (!!!) Kamala Harris emphasized, we are strongest as a country when we are united. Community-based apps that connect us with friends, neighbors, and strangers allow us to feel united rather than divided. With COVID-19 forcing so many of us to remain physically distant from our family and friends, technology that brings us together is more important now than ever before.

My Pick: Clubhouse Drop-In Audio Chat (joinclubhouse.com) A social network where people around the world come together to talk, listen, and learn from each other (if you need an invite DM me @theraquelscott)

Today, we witnessed history. Tomorrow, let’s do our part to make history.

Want to connect? Follow me @theraquelscott.

Note: Before posting links to any companies here, I try to use the app or product to the extent available. I purchased my Rebundle braid better hair and use Liberate and Clubhouse, but haven’t had a chance yet to use uLesson since it is not based in the United States.