In America, Black women represent six percent of the population but own just two percent of employer businesses according to a 2022 Goldman Sachs Research report Black Womenomics: Equalizing Entrepreneurship, which explores the barriers to entrepreneurship faced by Black women.

In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, support and guidance can be the difference between success and stagnation, especially for underrecognized entrepreneurs such as Black women.

Designed to address systemic barriers faced by Black women entrepreneurs head-on, the One Million Black Women: Black in Business program is a game-changer. Started in 2022, Black in Business provides Black women sole proprietors with a comprehensive toolkit to transform their business potential into tangible growth. The program’s offerings are extensive, including a 10-week online business education program, in-person learning opportunities at the prestigious Goldman Sachs headquarters in NYC, access to a robust network of Black women entrepreneurs and strategic advisors to set them up for success.

For two decades, JumpStart has been dedicated to meeting the unique needs of entrepreneurs. Our legacy of empowering diverse entrepreneurs with inclusive opportunities makes us an attractive partner for national brands that are implementing initiatives like Goldman Sachs’s One Million Black Women: Black in Business.

However, the significance of the program extends beyond its offerings as it takes an innovative individualized approach to imparting the education critical for business success.

Allow Time and Space to Focus

The program’s immersive experience begins with an all-expenses-paid trip to NYC, where participants engage in over 25 hours of intensive business training and networking activities. This dedicated time and space allow entrepreneurs to focus solely on their businesses, free from the distractions of daily life.

Breakout sessions take place in spaces that are filled with photos, quotes, inspirational affirmations and stories of program alums. JumpStart works with participants to gather the best business advice they have ever received to share alongside those of program alums. Through the program, participants engage with successful Black women entrepreneurs not only for education and networking, but to envision themselves among their ranks.

Facilitate Practical Application

The Black in Business program boasts a comprehensive curriculum that includes topics like customer profiles, effective marketing and financial projections. The education content for the program is taught by world renowned business school, NYU Stern.

Recognizing that one size does not fit all in entrepreneurship, the program emphasizes practical application tailored to each participant’s unique business needs. JumpStart provides logistical support to a team of experienced Black women entrepreneurs from across the nation who serve as Business Advisors, guiding participants through the process of applying newfound knowledge gained during coursework to their businesses.

Through individualized support and hands-on guidance, Business Advisors help entrepreneurs implement strategies that optimize their business operations. From streamlining product lines and production processes to reducing lead times, the Business Advisors ensure that participants translate classroom learning into real-world results.

Focus on Scale and Sustainability

Beyond initial growth, the program places a strong emphasis on long-term sustainability. Program staff work tirelessly to help participants develop strategies that not only scale their businesses but also ensure their continued profitability and resilience in the face of challenges far beyond the program’s end.

With JumpStart’s strategic support, One Million Black Women: Black in Business offers a chance for historically underrepresented individuals to access the resources and mentorship needed to realize their entrepreneurial dreams.

 

As Cohort 6 approaches, aspiring Black women entrepreneurs have the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey through the program. If you are looking to scale your business, applications are scheduled to open in March 2024 during Women’s History Month.

To learn more about the program and apply for Cohort 6, click here to visit the official Goldman Sachs website.