Kevin Williams

Kevin Williams is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Black Squirrel Collective, an organization dedicated to supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs by providing access to resources, capital, and technical assistance. He co-founded Black Squirrel Collective in 2019, motivated by a desire to address the inequities faced by Black entrepreneurs in securing funding and support for their businesses.13

Professional Background

Before his role at Black Squirrel, Williams was the CEO of SMART Group, where he gained over two decades of experience in helping small and medium-sized businesses enhance their operational capabilities. His expertise includes developing business models, sales strategies, and technological improvements.24 Williams has also been involved in community initiatives and workshops aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs, particularly through his leadership in the B Smart workshops at Drexel University.1

Vision and Impact

Williams's work with Black Squirrel Collective focuses on creating a supportive ecosystem for mid-career developers and small businesses. The organization aims to connect these businesses with crucial resources necessary for growth and sustainability. One of their key initiatives is the PHILLY RISE Accelerator, which provides training, coaching, and access to capital for Black and Brown real estate developers in Philadelphia.34

Through his leadership, Williams is committed to fostering community wealth building and addressing systemic barriers that hinder the success of underrepresented entrepreneurs.13