There is very little pride like the one connected to the neighborhoods people are from. Whether you are from Los Angeles, CA, New York City, or across the waters in Lagos, Nigeria – many people have a unique sense of pride in the deep points of connection that they have with the places they call “home.” While every home is unique, what exists as a universal truth is some of the challenges that tend to exist in those communities. No place is without its share of issues, from disparities in communal resources to the lack of safe and affordable housing. It is at this intersection that Esusu finds its purpose. Esusu is an institution created to help bridge the wealth gap. A core part of the mission is to alleviate barriers families have to access housing. With the belief that “housing is a fundamental right, and we envision a world without delinquency, housing evictions, and ultimately, homelessness,” the organization is actively working with government and community partners to bring...

Tennis superstar and philanthropist Serena Williams is giving back to underserved communities by backing leading rent reporter fintech company Esusu. According to a press release, Williams participated in the company’s $10 million Series A funding round — led by Motley Fool Ventures — with an undisclosed “significant investment” through her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures. In speaking with CNBC, Williams shared that she started her company to “invest in diverse founders and early-stage companies that outperform and generate impact, while at the same time empowering others and creating opportunities” — thus identifying Esusu as one of those very companies. “Esusu is really focused on credit building and creating pathways to financial inclusion for not only working families but for individuals as well,” she shared in a press statement. “Their services also make rent reporting seamless – finally giving renters credit for what often is their largest expense every month. Last year,...