Canada-based venture firm BKR Capital has raised approximately CA$20 million (around $14.5 million) for its second fund, moving closer to its overall target of CA$50 million. The fund is focused on investing in high-growth technology startups led by Black founders, particularly those building solutions for the future of work, living, and global connectivity.
The firm primarily targets companies in Canada but remains open to selective global investments. According to managing partner Lise Birikundavyi, the fund plans to invest between $250,000 and $1.5 million per startup, aiming to support around 25 companies.
Birikundavyi highlighted that nearly 70% of Canada’s Black population consists of first- or second-generation immigrants, which contributes to founders building globally oriented businesses from the outset. This, she explained, provides a structural advantage in scaling and accessing international markets early.
While some U.S. investors have stepped back from explicitly promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, BKR Capital views the opportunity differently. Birikundavyi noted that in Canada, the conversation is shifting toward performance-driven investing, even though the core opportunity remains the same. She stated, “Expanding access to overlooked founders continues to surface high-quality deals, making this less about DEI and more about arbitrage investing.”
The firm’s investment thesis is built on the belief that underserved markets and diverse perspectives can unlock significant venture opportunities. Founded in 2021, BKR Capital previously raised $22 million for its first fund, which, according to the firm, has outperformed at least 75% of comparable funds launched during the same period.
With Fund II expected to reach its final close by December, BKR Capital is positioning itself to play a key role in supporting underrepresented founders while tapping into high-potential, globally scalable ventures.
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