The Desmond Fontaine Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit equipping dreamers and innovators with financial and tech resources. Founded to support the bold ideas of young professionals who lack access to funding, the foundation provides non-dilutive grants and AI education to prepare the next generation for the future of work and innovation.
This foundation is the philanthropic arm of HuCapital, created by founder Jerlisa “Juju” Fontaine in honor of her father, whose unwavering support of her dreams inspired her to help others pursue their own.
Our Programs
The Catalyst Fund
The Catalyst Fund is established to support early-stage founders and creators who are shaping innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing problems. We believe these visionaries are tomorrow’s leaders, finding creative ways to harness new media and emerging technologies to drive impact. Our mission is to provide them with the critical resources and support they may not have access to within their immediate networks, ensuring their bold ideas have the chance to thrive.
NexGen Builders Program
The NexGen Builders Program equips professionals and business owners with the skills to harness AI and emerging technologies to transform how they work and lead. This program is designed to help participants create smarter, more efficient processes while preparing them to thrive in a future where managing both people and intelligent systems is the new standard.
Impact
The Catalyst Fund
Catalyst Microgrant
A $1,500 microgrant designed to empower early-stage entrepreneurs who are building innovative product-driven and community-based businesses. Recipient: Jessie Ma, Cofounder & CEO of Werkflow
Winning Women Microgrant ($1,000)
In partnership with Young Ambitious One, the Winning Women Microgrant supports women founders who are building product-focused businesses.
Recipient: Chrystal Graves, Founder & CEO of Liquid AI
Men’s Wellness Microgrant ($500)
Small businesses and vendors at our annual Men Deserve Flowers Community Fair are automatically entered for a chance to win a $500 grant.
Recipient: Dante Senior, Founder & CEO of Ahblen
Programs
NexGen Builders Program
Priorly hosted workshop Learn How to Use AI Research Agents to Start a Profitable BusinessLed by Director of AI Product Management, Wiley Raul Cepin
One-Offs
In collaboration with HuCapital, we hosted the Men Deserve Flowers Wellness Fair, focused on supporting men’s mental, physical, and financial health.
Donations
Your gift fuels workshops that prepare professionals for the future of work and funds grants that empower early-stage founders to bring bold ideas to life. Join us in building opportunities that create lasting impact. Donate today.
Monthly Plans
Whatever your needs are, we are here to make it happen. Start small and evolve with us as you wish!
Free Plan
$0
USD
Per month
Includes:
Create a standout profile to showcase your projects, skills, and career story.
Curate your feed by industry and engage with relevant communities.
Use advanced search to discover meaningful connections by skills, career level, and industry.
Access The Vault with curated resources like newsletters, podcasts, articles, books, and more.
Standard Plan
$10
USD
Per month
Standard Plan:
Everything in the Free Plan.
Exclusive access to HueyAI, your personalized AI-powered career and business advisor for career roadmapping, business planning, and accelerated growth.
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