Black In Business aims to grow Black Owned Businesses in the UK

Designed by Channel 4 in partnership with Lloyds Bank, the initiative will reward up to five businesses ready to scale through the power of TV Advertising and Mentorship.

Each will receive £100,000 of TV Advertising on Channel 4, the creation of their own TV commercial, plus 6-months tailored marketing and business mentorship powered by DOES, to help accelerate their growth.

Background

Research carried out by Channel 4 helped to identify the experiences and challenges that Black Business owners face when starting out in their entrepreneurial journey. The research revealed that Black Business Owners face significantly more barriers when it comes to funding their business vs their white counterparts, and showed a gap in knowledge when it came to marketing and Advertising.

Lloyds  Bank’s 2022 Black. British. In Business and Proud report also revealed that 84% of Black business owners have been negatively discriminated against in their past entrepreneurial efforts and only 3 in 10 Black business owners will approach banks for finance.

In our pursuit of creating meaningful change for Black owned businesses in the UK, we’ve united the power of TV advertising, Lloyds Bank’s financial expertise and the lived experience of DOES, a successful Black owned business that understands the Black business experience and what it takes to thrive. This initiative is made with the Black community in mind, ensuring we’re creating the right opportunities for Black people, by Black people.

What will I receive?

Up to five businesses will each receive £100,000 worth of advertising airtime on Channel 4, plus the creation of their own TV Commercial.

Businesses will also benefit from the combined expertise of DOES, Lloyds Bank and Channel 4, who will offer a 6-month tailored mentorship program, as well as practical, hands-on masterclasses designed to help participants in Business, Marketing and Advertising and overcome challenges and scale their ventures. With a strong focus on fostering innovation and success within the Black business community, this accelerator offers a unique opportunity for businesses to unlock their full potential and thrive.

A further five businesses that show great potential will be shortlisted as Black In Business Rising Stars, and will receive a package of support including £3,000 grant funding, tailored consulting and promotional opportunities provided by Jamii, an online marketplace for Black businesses.

What if I’m unsuccessful?

Regardless of whether you reach the final stage this time around, we’re still keen to help support you and your business. Which is why we’re offering all applicants full access to a range of masterclasses led by industry-leading professionals, that will equip you with the tools to grow and scale your business. Plus, access to the Lloyds Bank Black Entrepreneurs programme, and the DOES Black Business Community for daily opportunities, resources and reading lists to help support you on your way.

Please thoroughly read through our initiative terms and conditions

Key Dates

Applications open: Friday 26th May 2023

Deadline to apply: Wednesday 4pm 28th June 2023

2nd stage video submissions: Monday 31st July 2023

Final face to face interviews in London: Wednesday 23rd August 2023

Announcement of selected businesses: Thursday 7th September 2023

Masterclasses, Mentorship and creative development and production of ads: September 2023 – December 2023

TV Adverts on air: Q1 2024

The Small Print

All the important info you need to know before applying!

Applications have closed

Applications closed on the 28th of June 2023.