Channel 4 and Lloyds have revealed the businesses shortlisted for the 2024 Black in Business initiative. A total of 12 Black-owned businesses from London are in the running for a combination of free TV advertising airtime, the creation of their own TV advert and business support.
Black in Business is a Channel 4 initiative in partnership with Lloyds, to help tackle structural obstacles that Black entrepreneurs face when setting up and scaling businesses. Lloyds’ 2022 Black. British. In Business and Proud report revealed that 84% of Black business owners have been negatively discriminated against in their entrepreneurial efforts. In addition, Channel 4 Sales research found that 56% of Black owned businesses receive funding only once they had already become successful, compared to 35% of white business owners.
Now in its second year, following the success of the first year, Black in Business will provide £150,000 worth of TV advertising on Channel 4 to four successful businesses, up from £100,000 in 2023. The winning entrepreneurs will also receive tailored expertise and business advice from Lloyds, plus the creation of their own Channel 4 TV advert. This year’s London-based shortlisted businesses include:
Soul Cap: A brand providing inclusive swimwear products which provide options for people with longer, voluminous hair.
MAMA Youth project: A charity supporting young people from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds into careers in the media industry.
The Motherhood Group: A community-driven organisation providing in-person and digital support services for Black mothers and mothers-to-be.
Alonuko: A luxury women’s fashion brand specialising in handcrafted bridal and evening wear.
Flake Bake: London’s largest handmade Jamaican patty maker, offering meat and vegetable options infused with Caribbean spices in seven different flavours.
Chrissy Bales: A haircare brand founded by Chrissy C Bales in 2018, on a mission to provide the world’s number 1 luxury raw hair wig services.
Tritek Consulting: A tech training company providing training in Business Analysis, Project Management, Data Analysis, Cybersecurity, and Digital Marketing, with real-world projects and extensive career mentorship.
Gazelle Global: An ethnic minority-owned recruitment agency specialising in DEI and sustainability industry recruitment.
BYP Network: A career platform for Black talent, connecting professionals to personalised career opportunities including, jobs, networking and events.
SHYNE: A personal care brand focused on providing grooming essentials for males with afro/textured hair.
Colorintech/Black Tech Fest: A platform event dedicated to celebrating and amplifying Black excellence in technology.
HAIRVIRGINITY: A retailer for raw and virgin hair extensions, particularly catering for black and ethnic hair.
2024 applications for Black in Business closed on 28 October 2024.
Kirsty Sadler, Regional Director for London at Lloyds, said: “London is home to a diverse and thriving business community, and the calibre of Black-owned businesses on this year’s Black in Business shortlist reflects that vibrancy. These businesses are pushing boundaries and driving innovation in their respective industries. At Lloyds, we are proud to champion their growth and success, offering the vital support they need to realise their ambitions and create lasting impact.”
