About.
FutureNorth supports under-resourced Twin Cities entrepreneurs, particularly Black and Brown-led businesses, through applied AI events, mentorship, workshops, and community connections.
The Founding
Story.
Vernon and Justin have been friends for over 30 years. In the wake of George Floyd’s murder, it was a moment in our South Minneapolis neighborhood that required action.
There are systemic issues here in the Twin Cities that create real inequities when it comes to power and wealth. Vernon and Justin believe entrepreneurship is one way to address the challenges that create that imbalance of power.
That’s why FutureNorth was launched: to support the creation of more new businesses and help existing businesses accelerate, creating more jobs and, over time, more wealth in Minnesota’s under-resourced communities.
Built in the North. Built for the North.
Look Closer.
Three ways to get to know FutureNorth: who builds it, who it serves, and where it’s headed.
Our Team.
The founders and the focus behind FutureNorth, plus the seven values that guide the work.
Who We Serve.
The types of entrepreneurs we work with, and the broader community that benefits when they win.
Mission and Vision.
Our mission, vision, and theory of change for closing the Twin Cities wealth gap.