Forbes StaffArlan Hamilton is an American entrepreneur, author, and investor who has become a trailblazer in venture capital by championing underrepresented founders. As the founder and managing partner of Backstage Capital, Arlan has redefined the landscape of venture funding by focusing on startups led by women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community—groups historically overlooked by traditional investors.
Born in Dallas, Texas, Arlan’s journey to success is as inspiring as it is unconventional. She built her career in venture capital while experiencing homelessness, teaching herself the intricacies of the industry by reading books, listening to podcasts, and networking tirelessly. In 2015, she founded Backstage Capital with the mission to invest in “underestimated” entrepreneurs. Since then, the firm has invested in more than 200 companies, providing critical funding and support to diverse founders.
Arlan’s story of persistence and resilience quickly gained attention, making her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. She is the first Black queer woman to appear on the cover of Fast Company and has been featured in Forbes, TIME, and The Wall Street Journal for her groundbreaking work in venture capital. Her memoir, It’s About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage, has inspired readers worldwide with lessons on overcoming adversity and carving out your own path to success.
In addition to her work at Backstage Capital, Arlan is a sought-after speaker and advocate for diversity and inclusion. She launched initiatives like the Backstage Accelerator to help startups scale and has used her platform to highlight the importance of equitable access to funding in creating a more inclusive economy.
Arlan Hamilton’s impact extends far beyond venture capital. Through her work, she has not only empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs but also sparked a movement toward greater diversity and inclusion in the tech and business world. Her unwavering belief in the power of underestimated talent continues to inspire a new generation of change-makers.
