Celebrating Black history & Black futures
What’s ahead
Measuring our impact
Celebrating HBCU and D9 Night in DC
Poetry Challenge with the Pistons
Celebrating Black History Month
Measuring our impact
A little over two years ago, we launched our Student Investment Program (SIP) — a powerful program built with our unique playbook to create investment opportunities and teach investing basics at HBCUs and MSIs.
Following the completion of the pilot program, the Financial Health Network conducted a study looking into our impact. They spoke to 500 student participants. The report, released earlier this month, is game-changing.
These insights aren't just stats — they’re a powerful reminder that representation matters.
Through our intentional and inclusive product design, culturally competent engagement model, and differentiated learning and behavioral sciences strategies, we were able to foster participation, confidence, and belonging.
We’re so proud of these results, and this is only the beginning. Earlier this month, we were able to announce that we’ve secured an additional $1.65M in funding to expand SIP and create even more opportunities.
We set out to empower students to participate in the markets in ways in which many in their communities never have before. We’re so excited to share these results with you, and we cannot wait to show you what’s next.
Celebrating HBCU and D9 Night in DC
When we got the opportunity to be the presenting sponsor of Black History Month and HBCU and D9 Night with the Washington Wizards, we jumped at the chance to celebrate this amazing community.
Our team was joined by students from Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Howard University, Morgan State University, and University of the District of Columbia to show HBCU and Divine 9 pride.
Alongside the Wizards, we hosted Block Party at District E — DJ’d by Howard University senior DJ Dream Marie, the winner of our 2024 Battle of the DJs.
We also saw the culmination of our HBCU Hustle Hard pitch competition. This past Fall, we invited HBCU students to submit their business pitches for the chance to win $5,000.
After a panel of experts reviewed the pitches, a winner was selected: Bowie State University senior Ari’Anna Redmond and her business, Tony’s Kitchen and Bakery.
Ari’Anna brought research, passion, and a clear vision. “We’re excited about her journey and her potential,” said Stackwell’s Director of Program Ops & Delivery, Jamie Ciocon.
“Winning is just a dream come true,” she added. “We’re going to use this money to invest in our mobile food truck. We will be able to go to a lot of pop-up shops and food festivals.”
We’re so proud of Ari’Anna, our partnership with the Wizards, and the opportunity to continue bringing more resources and opportunities to the DC community.
Poetry, power, and purpose in Detroit
This month, we had the opportunity to get involved in another powerful tradition with another of our partners — the Detroit Pistons’ annual Black History Month Scholarship Event.
For the last 20 years, the Pistons have hosted a slam poetry and poster competition for high school students across Detroit, giving them the chance to win more than $110,000 in scholarships.
Chase, Stackwell’s community manager, had the honor of being a judge for the slam poetry contest — and presented the runner-up with their scholarship check. “It was incredibly inspiring to witness the intellectually driven and ambitious high school students in Detroit share powerful stories about legacy and the honorable Black figures who have shaped their aspirations,” Chase said. “Their talent was undeniable, making it nearly impossible to declare a winner, and I’m grateful that Stackwell gets to be part of their journey.”
Attendees witnessed the passion and creativity of these students as they took the stage, using poetry to share their experiences, dreams, and perspectives. The talent was undeniable, and the energy in the room was electric.
At Stackwell, we believe that financial empowerment starts with investing in people — their voices, their talents, and their futures.
Being part of this event reminded us why we do this work. When we show up for our communities, we don’t just invest in individuals — we help build a stronger, more vibrant future for everyone.
Celebrating Black History Month
At Stackwell, we’re not just talking about closing wealth gaps — we’re doing the work.
This Black History Month, we’ve been reflecting on the incredible communities we’ve connected with in Detroit, D.C., and New Orleans — some of the largest Black consumer markets in the country. In every city, we’re building more than wealth. We’re creating access. We’re sparking confidence. We’re investing in futures. Through seed-funded investment accounts, financial education, and real opportunities, we’re working alongside students, entrepreneurs, and families to drive lasting change.
From our NBA team partnerships to our work with local nonprofits, we’re showing up where it matters — on the ground, in the community, making an impact.
This month, we’re spotlighting this work on Instagram — follow along to see how we’re making a difference and supporting financial wellness across the country.
With every new program, we’re expanding opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building a stronger financial future for all.
