Celebrating Visionary Leadership: B. Pagels-Minor Named to EMPOWER 2025 Top 100 Executives

We are incredibly honored to share some deeply meaningful news from the heart of our mission. Our founder, B. Pagels-Minor, the guiding force behind DVRGNT Ventures and The Wealth Salons, has been recognized on the prestigious EMPOWER 2025 Top 100 Executives list. This acknowledgment truly reflects B.'s innovative spirit and steadfast dedication to fostering a more equitable and prosperous economic landscape for all.

The Vision: Pioneering Virtuous Capitalism

At the heart of B.’s work lies a deep conviction in "virtuous capitalism." B. believes that capitalism, as the prevailing global economic system, doesn't have to be a system that shuts people out. Instead, they advocate for a model where individuals from communities that have historically been underinvested are truly empowered to build and keep their wealth. This vision directly addresses the sense of exclusion many feel from the financial system, underscoring that "every person is worthy of investment." This ethos guides every strategy and partnership at DVRGNT Ventures and The Wealth Salons.

DVRGNT Ventures: Strategic Investments for Community Flourishing

We at DVRGNT Ventures, under B.'s visionary leadership, aren't just chasing after financial returns. Our deeper purpose is to nurture and cultivate the economic strength of the Great 38™. We believe that by investing in these specific areas, we can directly contribute to improving local conditions – things like water quality, access to healthcare, and robust infrastructure. This, in turn, truly benefits the incredible founders and the vibrant communities we are so privileged to support. Moreover, B. has built our team full of great people who are deeply committed to empowering founders with the essential tools they need to flourish.

The Wealth Salons: Building Bridges to Opportunity

Alongside DVRGNT Ventures' investment activities, The Wealth Salons, a nonprofit initiative, anchor B.'s community-focused strategy. The primary goal of these salons is to demystify financial processes and offer practical solutions, combating the sense of exclusion from the capitalist system. These free wealth salons and event series are "marquee events" crafted to attract real players in venture capital, allocators, and founders. These events cultivate a "safe space" for open business dialogue and foster crucial connections.

A Leader Driven by Connection and Authenticity

B. Pagels-Minor, the first trans VC lead in the world, hails from Mississippi, a background that profoundly shaped their work ethic and genuine care for others. They are a master connector, utilizing an extensive network to streamline investment introductions and resource connections. This commitment extends to their active involvement in groups like All Raise, fostering shared deal flow and exposure for women and non-binary individuals in the non-male investor community.

Authenticity, transparency, and accountability are central to B.'s approach, recognizing their importance for both individual and corporate success. Their direct and honest communication, coupled with a dedication to genuinely being helpful to people, forms a bedrock of trust essential in the intricate financial world.

Our heartfelt congratulations go to B. Pagels-Minor for this richly deserved recognition. We are excited to continue this impactful journey together, as their visionary leadership is actively building a future where wealth creation and retention are truly accessible to all, transforming the venture capital landscape.

To learn more about B. Pagels-Minor's work and the EMPOWER 2025 Top 100 Executives list, visit the official EMPOWER website.

To find out more or to become a part of the Wealth Salons visit their website, and subscribe to the Wealth Salons’ Substack.