08/01/2025
Meet Stephen Green. is a Portland-based entrepreneur and economist, best known for founding Pitch Black, a platform that supports Black and Latinx entrepreneurs through pitch competitions and non-dilutive grants. Since 2015, Pitch Black has empowered over 120 founders, awarding more than $280,000 in funding and helping businesses raise over $200 million collectively. His energetic, community-focused events, like “Da Gathering”, blend celebration and storytelling.
In addition to Pitch Black, Stephen is the Executive Director of Business for a Better Portland, aiding over 400 member businesses, and he chairs Built Oregon, a nonprofit supporting BIPOC-led consumer product entrepreneurs. In 2024, he co-founded Vanport Studio, offering strategic support to underestimated founders. Throughout his work, Stephen leverages equity, access, and community connection to foster growth.