Exciting Partnership Announcement
Braze, the well-known customer engagement platform, has just announced an exciting collaboration with BET+ to kick off the fifth cohort of its Tech for an Equitable Future grant program. This partnership represents a significant step toward empowering underrepresented founders within the tech industry. Braze is now accepting applications for this innovative program, inviting businesses led by diverse leaders to take advantage of invaluable resources aimed at fostering growth and innovation.
What the Grant Program Offers
The Tech for an Equitable Future initiative is designed to support 20 companies that are led by underrepresented founders, including Black and women entrepreneurs. Participants chosen for the program will enjoy 12 months of free access to Braze’s technology, plus a collection of resources aimed at enhancing their operational effectiveness. This initiative not only provides technological assistance but also promotes better customer engagement strategies, similar to those successfully utilized by BET+.
Benefits of the Partnership with BET+
Through this promising collaboration, BET+ aims to offer valuable mentorship opportunities to the selected program participants. This includes a masterclass focused on branding, along with complimentary email advertising. BET+ will work closely with five carefully selected companies, assisting them in effectively utilizing Braze’s tools to elevate their customer engagement efforts.
A Statement from BET+
Jason Harvey, the Executive Vice President and General Manager of BET+, expressed his excitement about this extended partnership, emphasizing its alignment with the company's community-centered values. He highlighted BET+'s strong commitment to supporting under-resourced founders as they work to enhance their market visibility using Braze’s advanced technology.
Addressing Funding Disparities
This initiative takes on added significance when considering recent statistics from the funding landscape. Currently, Black-founded startups receive just 0.5% of the total venture capital earmarked for U.S.-based startups. Meanwhile, female-led companies have only secured 2.2% of total investments in the industry. Braze's initiatives within the Tech for an Equitable Future program underscore an important commitment to rectify these imbalances.
Expanding Access to Resources
Braze is dedicated to making a substantial impact, pledging $900,000 in annualized product value for FY'25. The firm firmly believes in the importance of equitable access to both technology and mentorship, working to cultivate relationships that empower underrepresented founders to thrive in the competitive world of entrepreneurship.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify for the Tech for an Equitable Future grant program, applicants must meet several criteria:
- Companies must be led by underrepresented founders, including Black and women entrepreneurs.
- The business should be bootstrapped or have received less than $30 million in venture capital funding.
- The total number of employees should be fewer than 100.
- Companies must have a compatible SDK and adequate Engineering/Marketing resources.
Program Offerings
The businesses selected for the grant program will gain access to various resources, including:
- A complimentary Braze Core package, which encompasses access to the Braze platform, SDKs, and APIs, along with robust messaging options.
- Onboarding services and over 25 hours of educational training to ensure a seamless commencement.
- Ongoing support from a dedicated Customer Success Manager.
- Opportunities for free certifications through Braze.
- Access to exclusive digital community platforms to network with other founders.
Final Thoughts on the Collaboration
The partnership between Braze and BET+ serves as a crucial platform to amplify the voices of diverse entrepreneurs in the tech field. This collaboration goes beyond merely providing access to technology; it represents a shift toward creating a more inclusive business culture that recognizes and supports all founders, irrespective of their backgrounds. Together, Braze and BET+ are paving the way for a future filled with equitable opportunities for entrepreneurs everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tech for an Equitable Future grant program?
This program offers grants and resources specifically aimed at helping underrepresented founders grow their businesses.
Who can apply for the grant?
Applicants must be led by underrepresented founders and meet specific criteria related to funding and employee count.
What support does BET+ provide to participants?
BET+ offers mentorship, branding masterclasses, and free advertising opportunities to the selected companies.
What is Braze's role in this partnership?
Braze supplies technology and support to help participants enhance their customer engagement strategies effectively.
How many businesses will benefit from this program?
The program aims to support 20 businesses with the resources and technology they need.
