Lifting as We Climb: Building an Inclusive Startup Ecosystem

Being an underrepresented founder in the startup world often means navigating invisible barriers while building something new. But it also comes with a deep well of resilience, creativity, and community. At Lifting as We Climb, with Startup Boston and City of Boston, founders and investors came together to talk candidly about the realities of representation - and how we can all play a role in building a more inclusive ecosystem.

The panel last night featured Farah Hussain (Executive Coach, Coaching with Farah), Jashin Lin (Founder, Growbie), Jake Lefker (Scout, Vamos Ventures) and Nana Younge (Founder, Get Girls Going & Program Director, Innovate@BU). 

The Subtle Barriers Still Holding Founders Back

Microaggressions can happen in ways that people don’t even realize. Nan Younge shared how, as a CEO, she’s often seen questions directed toward her leadership team instead of her - subtly undermining her authority. These small moments add up, especially when compounded with the lack of representation in leadership, investor, and community networks.

Without seeing people who look like you, or having access to the same circles, it’s harder to even see the opportunities available. That’s why visibility, mentorship and access matter so much.

Representation Must Extend to the Capital Side

The conversation didn’t stop at the founders. The panel made it clear that building an inclusive ecosystem means addressing inequities on the investor side too.

“The circles you have are where you’ll find your next founders, employees, and even spokespersons for your fund,” Jake Lefker noted. “So if your circle isn’t diverse, your deal flow won’t be either.”

Supporting underrepresented founders requires equally supporting, and funding, underrepresented investors.

Knowing When to Walk Away (and When to Own Your Voice)

Another powerful theme: not every room is the right room. It’s okay to say, “This space isn’t for me.” Forcing your way into an environment that doesn’t value you can drain energy that’s better spent finding or creating a space where you can thrive.

And sometimes, in trying to “fit,” founders forget their own voice. As Nana put, “You become so fixated on telling people what they want to hear that you forget what you want.” Remembering your own goals and staying authentic is one of the most powerful tools a founder can have.

Lifting Each Other Up, Intentionally

Being authentic and recognizing others’ struggles is a first step. But to truly lift as we climb, it takes intentionality:

• When planning events, panels or dinners - invite people you don’t know and who don’t look like you

• When you meet someone new, think about who else in your network you can introduce them to

• When you have a platform, use it to highlight underrepresented stories. Post about your journey, your challenges and what you’re building - because visibility attracts opportunity

Spaces like A2C, VC Unleashed, Startup Boston, Venture Café at CIC and university innovation centers are helping lead that charge - creating open, accessible spaces where connections can form organically.

Creating the Ecosystem We All Deserve

Building a more inclusive ecosystem isn’t about one-off conversations - it’s about habits. Who we invite. Who we mentor. Whose stories we amplify.

As the panel reminded us, inclusivity grows when we expand our circles, make thoughtful introductions, and design rooms that feel welcoming to everyone.

Because when we lift as we climb - we rise higher, together.

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