Introducing The First 200: The Black Women Who Broke Venture Capital's Funding Barrier

What does it take to become one of the first? Hosted by entrepreneur Amira Rasool, The First 200 is a podcast documenting the stories of founders from distinct backgrounds who were among the first 200 in their communities to raise more than $1 million in venture capital funding.

Each year we explore a different cohort of trailblazing entrepreneurs, preserving the stories behind the milestones and uncovering the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that shaped their journeys. Through candid conversations, listeners will gain insight into fundraising, leadership, company building, exits, resilience, and what it takes to scale high-growth startup.

Season one focuses on the first 200 Black women founders in the United States to raise more than $1 million in venture capital funding. These founders have built businesses across technology, healthcare, fintech, fashion, beauty, commerce, media, travel, and more—collectively raising billions of dollars while creating lasting impact across industries.

In this special trailer episode, Amira shares why she launched The First 200, the vision behind the platform, and what listeners can expect from the conversations ahead.

The first two episodes premiere on June 24th. New episodes for season one will be released every Tuesday thereafter.

Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts, and explore the founder index, reports, and more at thefirst200.com.

Because before there were thousands, there were The First 200.