HBCU Founders Accelerator Cohort #3 Spotlight: Meet Dr. Stevens Bonhomme from Feedcoyote
This Fall, we kicked off the third cohort of the HBCU Founders Accelerator Program, and over the coming weeks, we’re thrilled to highlight the incredible founders and their inspiring journeys. Next up, meet Dr. Stevens Bonhomme from Feedcoyote.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired your entrepreneurial journey?
I grew up watching my parents work tirelessly, always striving to give us a better life. Their resilience and sacrifice planted the seed of entrepreneurship in me. I knew I wanted to create something meaningful—not just for myself, but for others too. My journey began with a simple idea: to solve real problems and help people connect in a more authentic way. Along the way, I faced countless setbacks, but every obstacle fueled my passion even more. What kept me going was the belief that failure is not the end, but a stepping stone. Every challenge became a lesson, and every small success a reminder of why I started. At the heart of it all, my inspiration is driven by a deep desire to make a difference, to leave something behind that matters. That’s what gets me up every morning.
What problem is your startup solving and what inspired you to tackle this issue?
Our startup is solving the challenge of connection and opportunity in the freelance world. Too often, talented individuals struggle to find the right gigs, and businesses miss out on incredible talent due to a lack of streamlined collaboration. We aim to bridge that gap by creating a platform where freelancers can not only find work but thrive through partnerships and growth opportunities.
The inspiration came from my own experience—watching so many skilled people, full of potential, unable to break through because they lacked the right networks or tools to manage their careers. I knew there had to be a better way to empower these individuals, to create a space where they could connect, grow, and truly shine. This mission drives us every day, knowing that we're helping people unlock their full potential and create meaningful work that matters.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced while building your startup, and how did you overcome them?
Dr. Stevens Bonhomme, Founder & CEO
One of the biggest challenges we faced while building our startup was the constant uncertainty—there were days when we questioned whether we'd make it through. From securing funding to finding the right team, each step felt like climbing a mountain. But the hardest part was staying resilient when things didn’t go as planned.
We overcame these obstacles by focusing on our purpose and the people we were helping. Every time we hit a roadblock, we reminded ourselves why we started—to make a real difference for freelancers. Surrounding ourselves with a strong, passionate team also made a huge difference. Together, we pushed through, learned to pivot when necessary, and celebrated even the smallest wins.
The journey taught us that challenges aren’t barriers—they’re opportunities to grow stronger. That mindset has been key to turning setbacks into stepping stones.
How have your background and previous experiences influenced your approach as a founder?
My background and experiences have shaped me as a founder in ways I never expected. Growing up in a family of hardworking individuals, I learned the value of perseverance and grit early on. Watching my parents face challenges with resilience inspired me to approach problems with the same mindset—never give up, no matter how tough things get.
My previous roles taught me the importance of empathy, collaboration, and leading with purpose. Whether managing teams or working on personal projects, I saw firsthand how vital it is to understand the people behind the work. This has been core to my approach as a founder—I believe that building a successful startup isn’t just about great ideas, but about creating a culture where everyone feels empowered.
These lessons have taught me to lead with heart, focus on people first, and embrace challenges as part of the journey.
Where do you see your company in 5 years and how do you see it impacting your community?
In five years, I envision our company becoming a leading platform where freelancers and businesses not only connect but thrive together. We want to be a place that empowers individuals to grow their careers, collaborate meaningfully, and find opportunities that align with their passions. Our goal is to build a global community where talent is recognized and rewarded based on merit, not connections.
As we grow, I see our impact expanding far beyond just business transactions. We want to uplift underserved communities, providing access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities that can transform lives. By bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, we hope to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and freelancers, giving them the tools they need to succeed. Ultimately, our vision is to create a ripple effect—helping people succeed on our platform will, in turn, strengthen and uplift the communities they belong to.
What led you to become interested in Nex Cubed? What resources do you believe will be most helpful?
I became interested in Nex Cubed because of its commitment to empowering early-stage and underrepresented founders with the tools and resources needed to thrive. The support network and hands-on approach they offer are exactly what we need to take our startup to the next level. I was drawn to their reputation for helping startups scale and grow through mentorship, funding, and access to industry experts.
The programs that excite me the most are the mentorship and accelerator programs, which provide invaluable guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs who’ve been through the same journey. The opportunity to connect with investors and refine our business model with expert advice is crucial as we look to scale. Nex Cubed’s focus on innovation and fostering meaningful connections will be instrumental in helping us build a solid foundation, refine our strategy, and expand our impact. We're excited to learn, grow, and launch our startup with their support.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned as a startup founder so far?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned as a startup founder is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Building a startup is full of unexpected challenges—things rarely go as planned. Early on, I thought success would come from having the perfect plan, but I quickly realized that the real key is how you handle setbacks and pivot when needed.
I’ve learned that failure isn’t something to fear but a crucial part of growth. Every obstacle has been an opportunity to learn, innovate, and strengthen our business. Surrounding myself with a supportive team and mentors have also been invaluable—they remind me that no founder succeeds alone.
Ultimately, being a founder has taught me that persistence, flexibility, and an unwavering belief in our mission are what drive success, even when the path ahead is uncertain. It’s the journey, not just the destination, that defines true success.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark in the industry?
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to embrace the journey with resilience and a clear sense of purpose. Don’t be afraid to take risks and fail—failure is often the best teacher. Stay focused on solving real problems that you’re passionate about, because that passion will carry you through the toughest moments.
Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and who challenge you to grow. Building a strong support system, whether it’s a team, mentors, or fellow founders, is key. Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone.
Lastly, be adaptable. The market, your customers, and even your ideas will evolve, so stay open to change. Keep learning, be patient, and celebrate every small win along the way. Success doesn’t come overnight, but with persistence and belief in your mission, you can make a lasting impact.
What advice would you give to other HBCU entrepreneurs around fundraising?
For HBCU entrepreneurs, my biggest advice around fundraising is to believe in your value and tell your story with confidence. Investors aren’t just funding businesses—they’re investing in people. Share how your background, education, and experiences uniquely position you to solve a problem in a way no one else can.
Be relentless in building relationships. Networking is key, and not every investor will be a fit, but persistence pays off. Leverage your HBCU network and alumni connections for introductions and mentorship, and don’t hesitate to reach out to other founders who’ve been in your shoes.
Also, be prepared—know your numbers, market, and growth strategy inside and out. Fundraising can take time, so be ready to adapt and pivot as needed.
Finally, don’t be afraid to seek non-traditional funding sources, like grants and pitch competitions. Keep pushing, stay focused, and remember, your perspective is your superpower.