From the Trenches
Perspectives from building, not observing.
Most companies don't fail — they stall.
Clarity, speed and execution determine outcomes early.
- Capital doesn't fix broken models.It amplifies what already exists.
- Execution wins.Speed is strategy.
- Timing isn't luck.Focus beats noise.
- Markets matter more than ideas.Great execution in the wrong market still fails.
Articles
Pattern recognition from real company building.
-
Disadvantaged entrepreneurs need accelerators designed for them
Herbert writes in the Black Wall Street Times on why disadvantaged entrepreneurs need accelerators built around their specific challenges.
-
Rural entrepreneurs can convert side hustles into successful businesses
Herbert’s Black Wall Street Times piece on side hustles rural entrepreneurs can grow into real businesses, from agri-tourism onward.
-
Venture Capital Starves Resources from BIPOC and Women Founders
Herbert in the Black Wall Street Times on the systemic reasons venture funding bypasses BIPOC and women founders, and what VC firms can change.
-
The Imperative for Diverse and Inclusive Corporate Boards
Why diverse, inclusive corporate boards make better decisions, spur innovation and drive sustainable growth.
-
Herbert Drayton is the Venture Capitalist for the culture
The Black Wall Street Times interviews Herbert on HI Mark Capital’s mission and keeping business growing across the South.
-
Herbert Drayton named to SEC Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee.
The SEC names Herbert one of 14 new members of its Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee.
-
Hi Mark Capital Announces Equity Investment from Bank of America
HI Mark Capital announces an equity investment from Bank of America as part of the fund’s first close.
-
The State of Startups in the Southeast 2022 Report – Panoramic Ventures
Panoramic Ventures’ report on the Southeast startup scene: rising capital, larger checks and higher valuations through 2022.
-
The state of diversity in global private markets: 2022
McKinsey surveys private equity firms and institutional investors on diversity across global private markets in 2022.