An Interview with Joseph Abboud of DreamLoad Ventures
In the current episode of the Capital Ideas podcast from Investor Choice Advocates Network, co-hosts Nick Morgan and Dara Albright interviewed Joseph Abboud of DreamLoad Ventures, a nonprofit think tank, incubator, and accelerator focused on supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.
The discussion delved into the challenges faced by specific communities, including veterans, women, and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) entrepreneurs, in accessing capital.
Abboud highlighted that these groups have historically been underserved in the capital markets. He provided statistics to illustrate this point: only 4.5% of veteran-owned businesses have adequate access to the capital needed to launch their ventures. Similarly, female-founded companies received just 2.1% of all venture capital funding in 2022, a decrease from 2.4% the previous year. Black entrepreneurs secured a mere 1% of venture capital funding in 2023, while Latinx founders received less than 2%.
These disparities underscore the necessity of DreamLoad’s mission to bridge these gaps.
The conversation also touched on the origins of venture capital, with Albright noting that veterans returning from World War II were instrumental in creating the venture capital industry, given their willingness to take risks and innovate. Abboud agreed, emphasizing that entrepreneurship has historically been a pathway for veterans to reintegrate into civilian life, especially when other options were limited.
Abboud then discussed how DreamLoad not only helps entrepreneurs access capital but also assists them in market entry, branding, and marketing.
He mentioned ongoing partnerships, including one with the Purple Heart Foundation, a veteran-focused nonprofit. This partnership aims to provide resources not only to veterans but also to their spouses and descendants.
Additionally, DreamLoad is in discussions with other organizations, such as the Choctaw Nation, to extend their support to female-led and minority-owned businesses.
Addressing the regulatory barriers that Dreamload encounters, Abboud explained that the organization uses innovative methods like regulated crowdfunding (e.g., Reg CF, Reg A, and Reg D) to help entrepreneurs raise capital.
He highlighted a project called “America’s Real Deal,” which combines elements of “Shark Tank” and “American Idol” to give businesses nationwide exposure and the opportunity to attract investment from the public, not just traditional venture capitalists.
Abboud also spoke about the importance of building relationships with social impact investors through DreamLoad’s 501(c)(3) model. This nonprofit framework allows them to accept donations, which are then used to support startups and entrepreneurs in their ecosystem.
The support provided ranges from brand identity and web development to more intensive programs like a 13-week accelerator, all aimed at preparing these businesses for crowdfunding or other investment opportunities.
The interview concluded with Morgan and Albright acknowledging the uniqueness of DreamLoad’s approach, particularly the integration of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit model with crowdfunding methods, which they believe could serve as a model for other incubators and accelerators. The hosts also expressed hope that regulatory options would continue to expand, making it easier for organizations like DreamLoad Ventures to support underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Nick Morgan is President and Founder of ICAN, the Investor Choice Advocates Network, a nonprofit public interest litigation organization dedicated to serving as a legal advocate and voice for everyday investors and entrepreneurs. He was previously a partner in the Investigations and White Collar Defense Group at the law firm Paul Hastings. Morgan also previously served as Senior Trial Counsel in the SEC’s Division of Enforcement.
