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Coalition to Back Black Businesses

The Coalition to Back Black Businesses (CBBB) was a multi-year initiative to support small businesses as a means of assisting the communities they serve as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and chart a path forward. Small businesses are critical parts of communities – the strength of these businesses is essential to the vibrancy of their communities.

The CBBB was established in September 2020 by American Express, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Black Chamber of Commerce, National Business League, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and Walker’s Legacy. Made possible by additional funding from ADP, AIG, Cummins, Dow, Optimum, Shopify, S&P Global Foundation, and Stanley Black & Decker, these partners worked together to provide over $14 million in grants, mentoring/coaching, and resources to empower small businesses in economically distressed communities.

  • 1,697
    business owners received grants
  • 42
    states
  • 70+
    mentors

Supporting Small Businesses

The Coalition to Back Black Businesses was a grant making initiative to provide immediate financial assistance and long-term support for America’s small businesses. These funds helped business owners cover important expenses like marketing and advertising, expanding inventory, and paying rent.

Kymme Williams-Davis, Owner, Bushwick Grind Cafe

Enhancement Grant Recipients

$25,000 Enhancement Grant

The most promising and innovative small businesses from the program were awarded a $25,000 enhancement grant to further solidify their resilience and long-term success. This grant helped these businesses develop a stronger online presence, relocate to a larger physical space, increase marketing efforts, and more.

Insights & Reports

Here's a snapshot of the impact CBBB has had on small businesses, how they used the grant, and insights on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Check out our impact reports from 2021 and 2020 cohorts for more information.

Phillip Hall, executive director of Panoramic Learning Academy (PLA), is committed to each child's learning development, with a particular focus on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics, as well as social skills. Learn how PLA is making long-lasting impacts in the community.

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Harlem Cycle, a boutique indoor cycling studio based in New York City, was founded on the belief that everyone should have equal access to wellness. During the pandemic, owner and founder Tammeca Rochester pivoted her business to meet the needs of her community and stay afloat.

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