Network N’ Chill, founded by Chris Redd and Ricky Mason is a platform that brings together black and brown founders and provide them with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to connect with investors and industry leaders. Chris and Ricky met in Louisville in 2018 and have been collaborating ever since on projects that connect and empower people.
So why did you start Network & Chill?
We saw the need for a community that could support and empower minority founders and small businesses who often face unique challenges and barriers. Our personal experiences with entrepreneurship and networking inspired us to create Network N’ Chill to help build a stronger and more inclusive tech ecosystem in Kentucky.
How do you see Network and Chill (and your other work) contributing to the community, and what impact do you hope it will have?
Network N’ Chill is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech industry by connecting founders with investors, mentors, and industry leaders. Network N’ Chill aims to help founders build successful and sustainable businesses that can have a positive impact on their communities.
Can you share any specific success stories or moments from your work with Network and Chill that stand out to you?
A special moment that Network N’ Chill recently had was hosting a discussion with Andy Dunn, the founder of Bonobos, (which sold to Walmart for $310 million). He discussed his book, Burn Rate, which is about the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurship.
How do you stay motivated and energized to continue pursuing your various projects and initiatives?
We stay motivated and energized by the success stories of the founders we have helped, as well as by the support and engagement of the Network N’ Chill community.
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects that Network and Chill is working on, and how people can get involved or support the movement?
Network N’ Chill is always working on new initiatives to support founders and build a more inclusive tech ecosystem. We are excited to be traveling to Covington, Paducah, and Lexington this year to collaborate with local organizations to support and highlight black and brown founders.
Want to know more? Register HERE for the Paducah Network & Chill event on June 20.
Network N’ Chill is all about relationships and encourages people to get involved by attending Network N’ Chill events, joining the Network & Chill community, and supporting their work through donations or partnerships.