Oct 11 2024 51 mins
In this powerful episode of ABWilson's Heart of the Matter, host Aderonke Bademosi Wilson sits down with Eric Collins, a Southern African American investor and venture capitalist. Eric shares about his remarkable journey, investing in community empowerment, and his dedication to creating opportunities for others. They explore his deep-rooted Southern identity, the power of collective action within the African American experience, and his passion for investment as a tool for change.
Eric discusses his family’s history which dates back to the 1700s and reflecting on the distinct experiences of African Americans in the South, from enslavement to resilience through Jim Crow and beyond. He describes the African American experience as a legacy of hope, hard work, and collective strength, emphasizing the sense of community and shared struggle that has defined Black America.
Eric elaborates on his role as a venture capitalist and how his investment philosophy is rooted in optimism and the belief that strategic investments can drive transformative change. He shares the story behind ImpactX Capital, a firm dedicated to backing underrepresented entrepreneurs, with a specific focus on Black-owned businesses in the UK. He explains how ImpactX aims to address economic disparities and empower communities through targeted investments that create sustainable growth.
Eric highlights his family’s commitment to lifting up future generations, including a family scholarship fund and the longstanding tradition of the Collins family reunion, which has been held for nearly 70 years. He recounts a deeply personal story about filming his television show The Moneymaker on the day his father passed away. He also shares how he drew on his father’s strength to fulfill his obligations and keep moving forward despite the immense grief he felt.
Reflecting on his demanding career, Eric emphasizes the importance of physical health, exercise, and a deliberate approach to maintaining well-being. Eric encourages listeners to be intentional in their choices—whether in business or daily life—supporting ventures and actions that contribute to social justice and positive change.
Eric Collins' website: ImpactX Capital Partners - https://impactxcapital.com
Book: We Don’t Need Permission: How Black Business Can Change Our World
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