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National pitch competition looking to support Black entrepreneurs

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The National Black Business Pitch Competition. (304765)
The National Black Business Pitch Competition. Credit: NBBP

For Black-owned businesses, sometimes all it takes is an opportunity to build a lasting, life-changing partnership. The National Black Business Pitch competition (NBBP) could very well be the chance to do just that.

Organizers said it is important to recognize and subsequently break down the systematic and systemic barriers that have for too long disenfranchised Black business owners. In 2021, advocates want to create opportunities that amplify the reach of Black businesses, which has a direct correlation with Black wealth in America.

Dr. Pamela Williamson, the CEO and president of Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West (WBEC-West), is kicking off the event. She’s dedicated her professional career to advocating for Black-owned and women-owned businesses.

“Women-owned businesses make up the fastest-growing segment of the national and international business world,” said Williamson.

Ultimately, Williamson said the goal is to create a Black business network that major corporations can access and do business with.

However, funding to help support and grow Black-owned businesses is often a challenge.

The National Black Business Pitch is a virtual competition looking to bridge the gap and fill that void. The program was designed to connect Black-owned businesses with corporations who are looking to expand and diversify their supply chains with new products and services.

Williamson said these are the types of business relationships that will provide more than just a seat at the table. NBBP is about opening doors that can lead to long-term and sustainable contracts.

The pitch competition is open to Black-owned, Black-founded, or Black-controlled businesses in the United States.

Phase One’s deadline is June 1. There’s no cost to apply. Interested companies should complete the application and submit a three-minute video about their business.

Meanwhile, 30 companies will be selected to proceed to Phase Two. At that point, the 30 finalists will pitch their business live during a three-day virtual event to several corporate procurement and supplier executives on August 17-19.

Three companies will win cash prizes. First place wins $10,000, second place $5,000 and third place $2,500. Williamson said regardless of who wins, the pitch opportunities could lead to increased exposure and the chance to earn new business.

Organizers explained that every single pitch will be seen by someone who represents one of America’s top corporations that have all committed to looking to source products and services from Black-owned, operated, and controlled businesses.

Corporate sponsors include Honda, AT&T, Salt River Project, and Delta.

In other words, the exposure is priceless. Learn more at https://nationalblackbusinesspitch.com.

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