We Hear You

Origin: Peoria, IL |

Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

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What is We Hear You?

We Hear You® is a startup company that creates accessible technology for those who are often not placed at the forefront of innovation. We Hear You® is currently working on two inventions that are focused on inclusivity and accessibility. The first is a two-way sign language translation software that is able to translate ASL through hand recognition and then translate speech to ASL. The second invention, Push™ , is a revolutionary solution for transforming ADA doors into automatic doors. With a simple press of a personal button, individuals with mobility exceptionalities can easily access public spaces, improving their independence and ease of mobility. This device is versatile; it can be worn as a wristband, attached to a wheelchair, or clipped to a keychain. The low-cost assistive devices empower businesses to accommodate their customers, ensuring a more accessible and inclusive environment. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as the foundation of innovation, We Hear You® strives to create a world where everyone can navigate their everyday lives with ease and dignity.

Company Leadership

Pierre Paul

FOUNDER & CEO

Pierre Paul was born in Brazil, grew up shortly in Guyana, and then landed in Ohio. At a young age, he faced extreme poverty, xenophobia and racism for simply being different. Armed with these experiences, he grew up with an unwavering determination to ensure that others who fell outside the “status quo” did not feel unwelcome in the world. Motivated by a vision for change and a burning desire to address the concerns of individuals whose voices often go unheard, Pierre embarked on a mission to establish We Hear You®.

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BETHANIE COURI

Co-founder

Bethanie is a young, driven Ed.D. student and professional. She works at Bradley University overseeing campus Residential Living. In addition, she serves as the Chief Operating Officer for We Hear You, LLC to ensure that we as a society are proactive with inclusivity and accessibility instead of being reactive to others’ needs.

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Bold Xchange

Origin: NC| Grant Awarded: 2020 | Status: Active

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What is Bold Xchange?

Bold Xchange is the most convenient way to buy black online. The platform emphasizes ease, vetting brands with on-camera product reviews, and guaranteeing fast shipping for every order. With a curated collection of products from black-owned brands, Bold Xchange takes the guesswork out of supporting black businesses.

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Company Leadership

Danielle Deavens

Co-Founder & Co-CEO

Danielle Deavens is the co-founder of Bold Xchange, a platform that is making it easier to find and shop black-owned brands. She was a 2018 Venture for America fellow in Charlotte, where she worked as Director of Customer Success for a local shopping app. Danielle went to Elon University and prior to the VFA fellowship she was on the editorial teams at Brides and Food Network Magazine in New York City.

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doug spencer

Co-Founder & Co-CEO

Doug Spencer is cofounder of Bold Xchange. He holds a BA in Business Management from Elon University. After graduating in 2016, he worked in marketing at both a Fortune 500 telecommunications company and an impact investing startup. He is now in his third and final year at Georgetown Law School, learning about the intersection of law and social impact.

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