the challenge
ZZendesk's startup program needed to increase representation of underrepresented founders, but lacked targeted outreach strategies, competitive brand positioning for diverse startups, and an inclusive application process that could reach beyond traditional channels.
( how Taylor tackled it )
The approach
A cross-organizational team from BWIB and EGAL developed a five-pillar strategic proposal: lead generation through campus affinity groups and diversity-oriented conferences, brand strategy improvements benchmarked against HubSpot and AWS, program application redesign for inclusivity, baseline diversity metrics, and community-building initiatives to support startups at every stage.