The Amazon Black Business Accelerator (BBA)
The Amazon Black Business Accelerator (BBA) is a comprehensive program designed to support and empower Black- owned businesses by providing access to capital, business guidance, mentorship, and marketing support. This initiative aims to address historical barriers to access, opportunity, and advancement faced by Black entrepreneurs, ultimate- ly driving economic equity and growth for these businesses.
Key Features and Benefits
Amplify Program: Offers strategic advisory services, dedicated mentorship, and cash grants to support business growth.
Financial Assistance: Provides $500 credits for newly-registered Amazon Professional sellers, grants and services valued at $3,900, and cash grants up to $10,000.
Marketing and Promotion: Includes Black-Owned Business store- fronts, discoverability enhancements, and promotions and advertising credits to increase visibility and sales.
Success Story: Scented Serenity
Before joining the Amazon Black Business Accelerator, Jasmine’s boutique candle company, “Scented Serenity,” was on the brink of collapse. Despite her unique, handcrafted products and dedication to sustainability, she struggled to compete with larger brands and secure funding. With the Accelerator’s support, Jasmine received a cash grant to revamp her website and social media presence, and she leveraged the free product imaging services to showcase her candles in a more professional light. The Amplify program connected her with a mentor who helped her optimize her Amazon store and advertising strategy, resulting in a 300% increase in sales within the first six months. Today, “Scented Serenity” is a thriving business, with Jasmine employing three full-time staff members and donating a portion of her profits to local environmental initiatives.
Eligibility and Access
To enroll in BBA, businesses must meet the following criteria:
U.S. Address: Located in the fifty states, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico.
Physical Products: Ready to promote and sell in Amazon’s U.S. store.
Active Amazon Professional Seller Account: With no fraudulent activity.
Minority-Owned Business Registration or Certification: Upload- ed to the Professional Selling Account in Seller Central.
Impact and Future
The BBA has significant implications for the future of Black business and entrepreneurship. By providing targeted support and resources, It aims to increase representation, drive economic equity, and foster community engagement. The program’s success stories, like Jas- mine’s, highlight the positive impact it has on businesses, demonstrating the potential for long-term growth and success.