TLDR:
- Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne founded NasaClip, a medical device to help nosebleed patients, with support from other Black women investors.
- Traditional funding options are limited for Black women, with only 2% of venture capital going to women and .34% going to Black women.
NasaClip founder Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne built her business with the support of the best angel investors, who were other Black women in her community. Despite the challenges of securing traditional venture capitalist funding, Clayborne found success by reaching out to fellow physicians who were willing to invest in her startup idea. This support not only helped her raise capital but also spread awareness about investing opportunities within the Black community.
Clayborne acknowledges the risks involved in early-stage investments but believes that supporting Black businesses will create a legacy for future generations. Despite the limited funding that women of color receive in the venture capital world, Clayborne remains determined to make NasaClip a successful venture. With a pre-money valuation now exceeding ten million, Clayborne’s vision is to make NasaClip an essential part of safety kits in industries like airlines and cruises.
As a successful businesswoman, Clayborne emphasizes the importance of taking personal time for mental wellness and preventing burnout. She believes that women of color have the necessary characteristics to be successful founders, showcasing resilience, creativity, and innovation. By sharing her story, Clayborne hopes to inspire other women and people of color to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and challenge the existing disparities in funding opportunities.
