DURHAM – The 11 latest selections for the annual Black Founders Exchange program in Durham includes three North Carolian companies.

The fourth such program is set fpr Sept. 22-27 in Durham.

Here are the 11 companies:

“Supporting the growth and success of underrepresented founders is core Google for Startup’s mission,” said Nicole Froker, Partner Manager at Google for Startups, which works with American Underground to put on the program.

Black Founders Exchange

“This program has proven its success year after year in equipping founders with the resources, networks, and expertise needed to scale their companies to the next level. ”

More than 160 applications were received this year.

The program is designed to help founders of color. “Programming focuses on how to navigate obstacles that are often faced by attendees- everything from what to do when facing racial bias in fundraising or how to build an effective network even if a startup is based in a so-called ‘entrepreneurial desert,’” the organizers say.

To date, participating companies have landed nearly $11 million in funding.

Organizers also have planned an Alumni Summit for previous attendees.

“The American Underground believes that economic opportunity increases when there is a diverse and inclusive startup ecosystem,” said Molly Demarest, General Manager of American Underground

“Our Black Founders Exchange program is uniquely designed to both address the challenges and celebrate the experiences of being a Black founder in tech. The traction and success delivered by the alumni to date, is evidence that this is the premier program for early-stage, Black founders nationally. We are excited to continue our partnership with Google for Startups in welcoming our fourth cohort.”

The agenda for the event can be found at this site.