Sky develops a £1m partnership with the Black Equity Organization

Sky has announced a £1m partnership with newly launched civil rights group, the Black Equity Organisation (BEO), to deliver the Future 100 Growth Fund, backing Black British entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses. “At Sky we want to share our platform and capability to create lasting change for Black British entrepreneurs," Announcing the partnership, Sky’s Group CEO, Dana Strong, said. "We are pleased to be working with BEO to provide direct assistance and advice from Sky to help make the UK a great place for Black businesses.”

BEO’s partnership with Sky began in 2021. The Future 100 Growth Fund forms part of Sky’s £30 million commitment to target structural inequality and make a difference in communities impacted by racism. The program will offer funding of up to £15,000 for the most creative content ideas,  create a network of mentors and community organizations to advise and assist new enterprises through direct financial support, diversify supply chains and develop opportunities for small and medium enterprises, among other benefits.

As BEO’s first official programme partner, Sky will provide funding and support over three years to help overcome the significant barriers faced by young Black entrepreneurs in Britain when setting up businesses. Hoping to support Black entrepreneurs who are looking to bring a business concept to life, have a fledgling business that they want to scale, or have the beginnings of a thriving business, the initiative is open to applicants between 18 and 30 years old of Black African, Black Caribbean, Black British and/or Mixed-race descent who are UK residents

 “Together with Sky, BEO is super excited to announce a multi-year partnership that will support Black entrepreneurs and positively impact their businesses," Chair of Trustees of BEO, Dame Vivian Hunt, said. "The Future 100 Growth Fund will back the next generation of Black founders to thrive and succeed. We can’t wait to see what the applicants achieve through this programme as they drive growth across their businesses and for the UK economy.”

Driving economic empowerment and equity of opportunity for Black people and businesses is one of six key areas BEO will focus on. Research has highlighted that in the 10 years between 2009-19, only 0.24% of the total invested in UK start-ups from venture capital funding went to Black entrepreneurs. Just 0.02% went to Black female entrepreneurs.