Deadline: August 8, 2025
Are you a Black woman entrepreneur or a founder of colour seeking to launch or scale your business? The Madam C.J. Walker Institute PACE Bootcamp 2025 is now open for applications — offering tailored support, expert coaching, and the chance to compete for visibility and funding.
This 13-week virtual bootcamp, powered by the New Voices Foundation, is specifically designed to equip diverse founders with the Purpose, Access, Capital, and Expertise (PACE) needed to thrive in today’s entrepreneurial landscape. Applications close on August 8, 2025, so act fast.
About the Madam C.J. Walker Institute PACE Bootcamp 2025
The Madam C.J. Walker Institute PACE Bootcamp 2025 is a virtual, cohort-based business development programme designed for early-stage and scaling entrepreneurs. Centred on the PACE framework, the programme connects founders with weekly coaching, expert-led instruction, and a collaborative peer network.
Whether you’re just launching your startup or seeking growth capital and visibility, the Bootcamp delivers a structured roadmap to business success — especially for women and entrepreneurs of colour.
Bootcamp Tracks & Schedule
The programme is split into two distinct cohorts, each tailored to a different stage of business growth:
1. Launch & Execute Cohort
Ideal for: Early-stage or first-time founders
- Classroom Sessions: Mondays, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET
- Coaching Sessions: Wednesdays, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET or 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET
2. Grow & Scale Cohort
Ideal for: Established founders looking to grow their businesses
- Classroom Sessions: Tuesdays, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET
- Coaching Sessions: Thursdays, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET or 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET
What You’ll Gain
Joining the PACE Bootcamp comes with a suite of powerful benefits:
- A curated curriculum tailored to your business stage
- Live instruction from industry experts and experienced coaches
- Peer support and collaboration through small group learning
- Structured pitch coaching and funding readiness
- Opportunity to participate in a Pitch Competition with cash prizes
- Pathway to high-visibility events like the New Voices POWER PITCH! (up to $150,000 in funding)
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to:
- Women entrepreneurs
- Black founders and other people of colour
- Founders at any stage — from idea to established business
- Individuals committed to attending weekly sessions from September to December 2025
This is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to grow sustainably while building strong community connections and gaining access to capital.
Application Process
To apply for the Fall 2025 PACE Bootcamp:
- Complete the McKinsey × New Voices Entrepreneur Sentiment Survey
- Submit your online application via the New Voices Foundation portal
- Wait to hear back — shortlisted applicants may be invited to a brief interview
Alumni Testimonials
Graduates consistently highlight the programme’s transformative impact:
“The sense of community was invaluable… our peers generously shared insights and resources.”
“This Bootcamp helped me understand alternative routes to capital and refine my business pitch.”
Several alumni have gone on to win funding at major platforms like the ESSENCE Festival’s POWER PITCH.
Important Dates & Commitment
- Application Deadline: August 8, 2025
- Programme Duration: September – December 2025 (13 weeks)
- Time Commitment: ~3–5 hours/week
Sessions are fully virtual, allowing flexibility while offering structured, consistent engagement.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to elevate your business journey with a proven, community-backed programme, don’t miss this chance to apply for the Madam C.J. Walker Institute PACE Bootcamp 2025. This initiative continues to change the narrative for women and minority entrepreneurs by offering access to funding, knowledge, and networks that matter.
Quick Links
Need support preparing your application?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
