West Harlem Innovation Network

To develop human capital and amplify innovation in high potential industries in historically overlooked communities.

Our Strategy

Rather than funneling capital into renovating, rehabilitating, and repurposing buildings, WHIN will focus on enabling, catalyzing and developing new businesses and entrepreneurial talent in West Harlem and other underinvested communities.

Focus on platform companies
Collaborate with local organizations
Assemble a dynamic portfolio
Utilize a studio model
Create an ecosystem

Because our focus is on people, not buildings, WHIN represents a new paradigm for Opportunity Zone investing. Our strategy aims to directly address one of the many root causes of systemic inequality in historically marginalized communities — the lack of access to capital and higher-paying jobs in innovative, self-sustaining, and scalable companies.

Targeted Outcomes

Develop higher paying jobs

We aspire to create hundreds of new jobs in technology-enabled businesses to catalyze economic development.

Build an Ecosystem

We aim to develop place-based resources and initiatives, including co-working spaces and events, to catalyze entrepreneruship and build a culture of innovation in the community.

Accelerate local STEM initiatives

We aspire to partner with local organizations to accelerate initiatives that focus on STEM and entrepreneruship.

Grow 4-7 platform companies

We aim to develop large-scale, technology-enabled enterprises with deep roots in the local economy.

Create a diversified portfolio

We aspire to create a blended ecosstem of diverse companies across WHIN's four core sectors.

Develop the local workforce

We aim to improve local employment by implementing upskilling opportunities, launching apprenticeships, and offering internships to local young residents.