Black Intrapreneurship

Black Intrapreneurship and Internal Innovation

Intrapreneurship—innovating from within an organization—offers a powerful avenue for making an impact in the business world. This guide is designed to help Black students and professionals understand the value of intrapreneurship, providing practical advice on how to innovate within organizations, build a reputation for adding value, and leverage historical and contemporary examples of Black intrapreneurs globally.

History of Black Intrapreneurship

Throughout history, Black individuals have driven innovation and change within organizations, often overcoming significant barriers along the way. Some noteworthy examples include:

Ursula Burns: As the former CEO of Xerox, Burns led the company through a significant transformation. Her journey from intern to CEO exemplifies the power of intrapreneurship.
Kenneth Frazier: CEO of Merck & Co., Frazier has been a pivotal figure in transforming the pharmaceutical industry, advocating for social justice and ethical business practices.
Phuti Mahanyele-Dabengwa: As the CEO of Naspers South Africa, Mahanyele-Dabengwa has spearheaded numerous innovative projects within the company, showcasing leadership in tech and media.

These figures demonstrate that entrepreneurship isn’t the only path to success—significant impact can be made from within an organization.

Black British Intrapreneurs

Here are some notable examples of Black British intrapreneurs who have made significant contributions within their respective organizations:

Name	Position	Organization	Key Contributions
Dame Sharon White	Chair	John Lewis Partnership	Steered the company through restructuring and the impact of COVID-19, first Black person and woman in the role.
Paulette Rowe	CEO of Integrated and E-Commerce Solutions	Paysafe	Led the development and expansion of integrated payment solutions, driving innovation in financial technology.
Ken Olisa	Chairman of Restoration Partners, Former Director	Thomson Reuters	Driven technological innovation and strategic growth, improved business operations within major corporations.
Bernardine Evaristo	President of the Royal Society of Literature	Brunel University London	Promoted diversity and innovation in British literature and creative writing.
Chi-chi Nwanoku	Founder and Artistic Director	Chineke! Foundation	Created opportunities for Black and ethnically diverse musicians, increased representation in classical music.
Magdalene Abraha	Founder of Jacaranda Books’ ‘Twenty in 2020’ Initiative	Jacaranda Books	Launched initiative to publish 20 Black British writers in one year, impacting the UK publishing industry.
Anne-Marie Imafidon	Co-Founder and CEO	Stemettes	Encouraged young women, particularly from minority backgrounds, to pursue STEM careers through innovative programs.
June Angelides	VC at Samos Investments, Founder of Mums in Tech	Samos Investments, Mums in Tech	Supported startups and pioneered tech training for mothers, addressing specific community needs within the tech industry.
Nadine White	Race Correspondent	The Independent	Highlighted issues of race and social justice through investigative journalism, using her platform to drive change.
Karen Blackett OBE	UK Country Manager, Chairwoman	WPP, MediaCom UK	Driven initiatives to improve diversity and inclusion within the advertising and media industry.
Eric Collins	CEO	Impact X Capital Partners	Funded underrepresented entrepreneurs, drove innovation and operational improvements within invested startups.

These individuals exemplify how intrapreneurs can drive significant change and innovation from within their organizations, demonstrating that entrepreneurship is not the only path to making an impact in business and society. Black British intrapreneurs can and do have impact within their organizations, promoting diversity, and leading cultural and operational transformations.

The Value of Intrapreneurship

Pros

Access to Resources: Intrapreneurs can leverage the existing resources of their organization, including capital, networks, and infrastructure.
Stability: Working within an established organization provides financial stability and reduces the risk associated with starting a new business.
Influence: Intrapreneurs have the opportunity to drive change and innovation in large, impactful ways within their industry.

Cons

Organizational Resistance: Innovation often meets resistance from established systems and cultures within organizations.
Limited Recognition: Intrapreneurial achievements might not always receive the same level of recognition as entrepreneurial success.
Dependency: Intrapreneurs depend on the broader organization’s support, which can limit flexibility and autonomy.

Dos and Don’ts of Intrapreneurship

Dos

Do Your Research: Understand your organization’s goals, challenges, and market position to identify where you can add value.
Build Alliances: Network within your organization to build relationships with key stakeholders who can support your initiatives.
Communicate Clearly: Articulate your ideas and their benefits effectively to gain buy-in from leadership and colleagues.
Be Persistent: Innovation often requires overcoming setbacks and resistance. Stay committed to your vision.

Don’ts

Don’t Bypass Protocols: Work within the organizational structure and respect existing processes and hierarchies.
Don’t Ignore Feedback: Listen to and incorporate feedback from peers and superiors to refine your ideas.
Don’t Work in Isolation: Collaborate with others to enhance your projects and gain diverse perspectives.
Don’t Overpromise: Set realistic goals and manage expectations to build trust and credibility.

Getting Started and Building a Reputation

Identify Opportunities: Look for gaps or inefficiencies within your organization that align with your skills and interests.
Develop a Business Case: Create a compelling proposal that outlines the problem, solution, benefits, and a plan for implementation.
Seek Mentorship: Find mentors within your organization who can provide guidance and support.
Deliver Results: Consistently achieve and exceed targets to build a track record of success.
Be Visible: Share your achievements and contributions through internal communications and presentations.
Continue Learning: Stay updated on industry trends and continuously improve your skills to remain relevant and valuable.

Challenges for Black Intrapreneurs

Navigating the path of intrapreneurship as a Black professional may present unique challenges due to systemic inequalities and cultural biases. Here are some of the common challenges faced by Black professionals seeking to be intrapreneurs, along with strategies to overcome them:

1. Limited Access to Opportunities

Challenge: Black professionals may face barriers in accessing high-level positions or opportunities for advancement within organizations due to systemic biases and lack of representation in leadership.
Overcoming Strategy: Proactively seek out opportunities for skill development, networking, and mentorship. Engage with affinity groups or employee resource groups within your organization to build relationships and advocate for advancement opportunities.

2. Cultural Bias and Stereotypes

Challenge: Black professionals may encounter stereotypes or cultural biases that undermine their abilities or contributions, leading to microaggressions or lack of recognition for their ideas and achievements.
Overcoming Strategy: Demonstrate your expertise and value through consistent performance and clear communication. Advocate for yourself by confidently sharing your ideas and accomplishments, and seek allies within the organization who can amplify your voice and support your initiatives.

3. Lack of Representation and Support

Challenge: The absence of diverse role models and mentors within organizations can make it challenging for Black professionals to find guidance and support in navigating their intrapreneurial journey.
Overcoming Strategy: Actively seek out mentors and sponsors who can provide advice, guidance, and advocacy. Look for opportunities to connect with other Black professionals within and outside your organization through networking events, industry conferences, or professional associations.

4. Unconscious Bias in Decision-Making

Challenge: Unconscious bias in decision-making processes, such as promotions, resource allocation, or project assignments, may result in opportunities being overlooked or unfairly distributed to Black professionals.
Overcoming Strategy: Advocate for fair and transparent processes within your organization. Raise awareness about unconscious bias and its impact on decision-making through education and training initiatives. Document and track your achievements and contributions to demonstrate your value and ensure equitable treatment.

5. Isolation and Lack of Inclusion

Challenge: Black professionals may experience feelings of isolation or exclusion within predominantly white corporate environments, leading to decreased morale and job satisfaction.
Overcoming Strategy: Foster connections and build alliances with colleagues who share similar experiences or values. Seek out opportunities to create inclusive spaces within your organization by advocating for diversity initiatives, cultural awareness training, and allyship programs.

6. Microaggressions and Discrimination

Challenge: Black professionals may encounter microaggressions or overt discrimination in the workplace, which can have a detrimental impact on their mental health and wellbeing.
Overcoming Strategy: Address instances of discrimination or microaggressions assertively and constructively, either through direct communication with the individual(s) involved or by seeking support from HR or diversity and inclusion departments. Focus on self-care practices to maintain resilience and seek external support if needed, such as therapy or counseling.

7. Imposter Syndrome

Challenge: Black professionals may experience imposter syndrome, doubting their abilities and feeling like they don’t belong in their role or organization, particularly in environments where they are underrepresented.
Overcoming Strategy: Recognize and challenge imposter syndrome by reframing negative self-talk and focusing on your strengths and achievements. Seek validation from trusted colleagues or mentors who can provide perspective and support. Invest in professional development opportunities to build confidence and skills.

By proactively addressing these challenges and leveraging their strengths and resilience, Black professionals can navigate the intrapreneurial landscape successfully and contribute meaningfully to organizational innovation and growth.

Dealing With Opposition

Overcoming opposition is a critical aspect of the intrapreneurial journey for Black professionals. Whether facing resistance to innovative ideas, systemic barriers to advancement, or cultural biases within the workplace, navigating opposition requires resilience, determination, and strategic advocacy. One effective approach is to build alliances and cultivate support networks within the organization, leveraging relationships with allies and mentors who can provide guidance, validation, and advocacy in challenging situations.

Additionally, maintaining a focus on the broader impact and value of your initiatives, and effectively communicating the benefits to stakeholders, can help garner buy-in and overcome opposition. By remaining steadfast in their goals, building coalitions, and effectively advocating for change, Black intrapreneurs can successfully navigate and overcome opposition, driving meaningful innovation and impact within their organizations.

However, opposition in the form of hostility, competition, and jealousy in the workplace can be particularly challenging for Black professionals seeking to become intrapreneurs. Here are some of the common challenges and strategies to overcome them:

1. Hostility and Racial Bias

Challenge: Black professionals may encounter overt or covert hostility in the form of racial bias, discriminatory behavior, or exclusionary attitudes from colleagues or superiors.
Overcoming Strategy: Address instances of hostility directly and assertively, while also documenting them for HR or management if necessary. Seek support from allies or affinity groups within the organization who can provide guidance and advocacy. Focus on building strong relationships with supportive colleagues and allies to counteract negative experiences.

2. Competition and Sabotage

Challenge: Black professionals may face competition and sabotage from colleagues who perceive them as threats to their own advancement or status within the organization.
Overcoming Strategy: Focus on collaboration rather than competition, seeking opportunities to build alliances and partnerships with colleagues who share common goals or interests. Maintain professionalism and integrity in all interactions, and avoid being drawn into negative dynamics or conflicts. Document achievements and contributions to demonstrate your value and resilience in the face of adversity.

3. Jealousy and Resentment

Challenge: Black professionals may experience jealousy or resentment from colleagues who perceive their success or recognition as undeserved or preferential treatment.
Overcoming Strategy: Lead by example and demonstrate humility and empathy in your interactions with colleagues. Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of others while also asserting your own accomplishments confidently and without apology. Seek opportunities to mentor and support colleagues who may be struggling, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.

4. Focus on Personal Growth and Development

Challenge: Hostility, competition, and jealousy can create a toxic work environment that detracts from personal wellbeing and professional growth.
Overcoming Strategy: Prioritize your own personal growth and development by focusing on your strengths, values, and long-term goals. Invest in building resilience and self-confidence through self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and hobbies outside of work. Seek out opportunities for learning and skill development that will enhance your intrapreneurial capabilities and contribute to your success.

5. Seeking Support and Advocacy

Challenge: Dealing with hostility, competition, and jealousy can feel isolating and overwhelming, particularly in environments where Black professionals are underrepresented or marginalized.
Overcoming Strategy: Seek out mentors, sponsors, and allies within and outside of your organization who can provide guidance, support, and advocacy. Participate in affinity groups or professional networks where you can connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support or counseling if you’re struggling to cope with the emotional toll of workplace hostility and competition.

6. Maintaining Professionalism and Integrity

Challenge: Hostile or competitive environments can test your professionalism and integrity, leading to feelings of frustration or disillusionment.
Overcoming Strategy: Stay true to your values and principles, maintaining professionalism and integrity in all interactions, even when faced with hostility or unfair treatment. Focus on your own actions and contributions, rather than getting caught up in negative dynamics or gossip. Lead by example and strive to create a positive and inclusive work culture, even in the face of adversity.

7. Building Resilience and Persistence

Challenge: Dealing with hostility, competition, and jealousy requires resilience and persistence to overcome obstacles and stay focused on your goals.
Overcoming Strategy: Cultivate resilience by reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Develop a growth mindset that embraces setbacks and failures as valuable learning experiences. Practice self-care and stress management techniques to recharge and rejuvenate your energy reserves. Stay focused on your long-term goals and aspirations, maintaining a sense of purpose and determination even in the face of adversity.

By proactively addressing hostility, competition, and jealousy in the workplace and adopting strategies to overcome these challenges, Black professionals can navigate the intrapreneurial journey successfully and achieve their goals with resilience and integrity.

Taking Care of Yourself as a Black Intrapreneur

Balancing the demands of driving innovation within an organization and maintaining personal wellbeing can be challenging. Here are some tailored self-care and wellbeing tips for Black intrapreneurs:

1. Set Boundaries

Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time to prevent burnout.
Learn to Say No: Understand that it’s okay to decline additional responsibilities that could overwhelm you.

2. Build a Support Network

Seek Mentorship: Connect with mentors who understand your challenges and can offer guidance and support.
Join Affinity Groups: Participate in networks or groups focused on Black professionals, where you can share experiences and gain support.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Meditation and Breathing Exercises: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress.
Regular Breaks: Take regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.

4. Physical Health

Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activities that you enjoy, whether it’s running, yoga, or a sport, to keep your body healthy and relieve stress.
Healthy Eating: Maintain a balanced diet to ensure you have the energy needed to perform at your best.

5. Mental Health

Professional Support: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable support.
Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings to process your experiences and reflect on your achievements and challenges.

6. Cultural and Community Engagement

Connect with Your Roots: Engage with your cultural heritage through community events, literature, music, or other forms of expression.
Volunteer: Giving back to your community can be fulfilling and provide a sense of purpose and connection.

7. Continuous Learning and Personal Growth

Pursue Interests and Hobbies: Engage in activities outside of work that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Lifelong Learning: Stay curious and keep learning new things, whether through formal education or self-study.

8. Celebrate Your Achievements

Recognize Milestones: Take time to celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Acknowledging your progress boosts motivation and morale.
Positive Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to build self-confidence and remind yourself of your strengths and capabilities.

9. Create a Supportive Work Environment

Advocate for Yourself: Ensure you have the tools and resources needed to succeed, and don’t be afraid to speak up about your needs.
Foster Inclusivity: Work towards creating an inclusive environment within your organization that supports diversity and acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Black professionals.

10. Use Technology Wisely

Digital Detox: Take breaks from digital devices to reduce screen time and mental fatigue.
Productivity Tools: Utilize apps and tools that help you manage your time effectively and reduce stress.

By incorporating these self-care practices into your routine, you can maintain your wellbeing while excelling as an intrapreneur. Remember, your health and happiness are crucial to your professional success and overall life satisfaction.

Resources for Further Learning

Please check out the resources we have created which may be relevant to you, as well as the library of links we have to further external support.

Books

Podcasts

Online Courses and Articles

Resources for Wellbeing

Conclusion

Intrapreneurship offers Black students and professionals a viable and impactful way to drive change and innovation within established organizations. By leveraging historical examples, following best practices, and continuously seeking to add value, you can build a successful career as an intrapreneur.

Remember, making an impact doesn’t always require starting a new venture; sometimes, the most significant changes come from within.