Resources for Black-Owned Businesses
Over the past two years more and more VC's and investors have created dedicated resources for Black entrepreneurs to help grow their businesses. We've compiled a few of these opportunities below.
This blog was last updated in February 2022.
The Boss Network
Sage and The Boss Network have teamed up to offer 25 $10,000 grants for Black women entrepreneurs in their first five years of their entrepreneurial journey. Recipients receive funding, mentorship, and training opportunities.
Website: TheBossNetwork.org
We Back Black Businesses
Each Fall, We Back Black Businesses opens applications for a $5,000 grant for Black entrepreneurs. Grant recipients will receive $5,000, access to a mentorship program and a resource hub, and will be eligible to apply for additional grants in the future.
Website: WeBackBlackBusinesses.com
Invoice 2 Go
Invoice 2 go is offering grants of up to $15,000 for BIPOC-owned businesses. Grant recipients must apply by Februrary 28th, and will receive funding, educational resources, and access to a community of entrepreneurs.
Website: Invoice2Grow.com
Annuity Freedom
SEO can have a big impact on your business' visibility, but it's not something that all business owners have the opportunity to learn. Annuity Freedom offers an ongoing micro-grant for Black-owned businesses which includes $100 and a free SEO audit and consultation.
These microgrants are awarded each month and you're able to apply at any time.
Website: AnnuityFreedom.net
Shopify
Shopify has partnered with Operation Hope to offer Black-owned businesses an extended free trial of the Shopify platform. Not only will you get a 120-day free trial, but participants will also receive:
- Workshops and coaching
- Access to the Shopify Build Black community
- Educational tools and programming
Website: Shopify.com
Business Directories and Online Communities for Black-Owned Businesses
Listing your business in a directory and joining an online community are two great ways to increase visibility of your business. Below are a few dedicated to Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.
- By Black: ByBlack is an organization that strives to create meaningful economic opportunities for Black people by amplifying Black businesses.
- African American Grants: African American Grants offers both an online directory of Black-owned businesses and grant opportunities.
- Black Deaf Center: The Black Deaf Center is an online hub of resources about and for the Black Deaf community. On their website they have a directory of Black Deaf businesses.
- Black Girl Ventures: Black Girl Ventures is an online community for Black/Brown women founders.
- FormsPal: This website provides high-quality legal templates and information online. They provide these resources to support many minority groups, including Black/Brown founders.
