T.J. Breeden

Dr. T.J. Breeden is the Founder and Managing Partner of Fuze Fund, where he leads the development and execution of fund strategies, forges impactful public and private partnerships, and expands the firm’s resource network to enhance value for its portfolio companies. Under his leadership, Fuze Fund is dedicated to empowering underrepresented founders—particularly minority, women, and veteran-led ventures—through targeted capital investment and strategic support and the launch of the firm's flagship $30M venture capital fund.

Dr. Breeden’s venture capital journey began in 2021, inspired by his work as Founder and Executive Director of Emerging Entrepreneurs, Inc., a non-profit committed to advancing the economic interests of underserved communities, including military families, women, urban youth, and minority populations. Over the years, his programs have impacted over 10,000 veterans, founders, and youth, earning him prestigious accolades, including being honored by President Obama as a “Champion of Change” and named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s “Veterans Entrepreneurship Advocate of the Year.” Additionally, Dr. Breeden was recognized by Black Enterprise as a “Modern Man of Distinction” and received the Cathy Hughes "Business Community Service" Award and the Dr. John Hope Franklin "Humanitarian of the Year" Award from Radio One for his outstanding contributions to economic empowerment.

In 2024, Dr. Breeden was accepted into the U.S. Department of State’s U.S. Speaker Program, where he collaborates with global leaders on critical issues such as social entrepreneurship, educational equity, and equitable venture investment. He also serves as Director of Programs at ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities.

Dr. Breeden holds a Doctorate of Education (EdD) from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises from Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management, and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from East Carolina University. His research and professional work focus on creating inclusive economic ecosystems and advancing diversity in STEM fields for Black women and girls, and how HBCUs are bridging the equity gap.

Dr. Breeden is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and is a lifelong North Carolinian.