SheaMoisture Celebrates a Decade of Entrepreneurial Empowerment
The commitment to economic empowerment for women entrepreneurs is taken to new heights with SheaMoisture's latest initiative. This year marks a significant milestone as the company celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Dartmouth Fellowship, in collaboration with Fifteen Percent Pledge. This partnership demonstrates a profound dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs by providing essential resources to grow their businesses.
Fellowship Overview and Objectives
The Dartmouth Fellowship program, hosted in partnership with the esteemed Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, has empowered over a hundred female entrepreneurs since its inception. It serves as a collaborative business education platform, equipping participants with invaluable tools, resources, and networks necessary to excel in the competitive market.
Collaborative Efforts to Recruit Talent
SheaMoisture has joined forces with Fifteen Percent Pledge to further augment the Fellowship's influence. Together, the two organizations aim to recruit twenty extraordinary women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, focusing on those who significantly impact Black communities. This initiative is about more than just education; it’s about creating a multilateral platform that promotes economic equity and enhances the visibility of aspiring female leaders.
Supporting Small Businesses in Challenging Times
Obinna Keke, SheaMoisture’s Chief Brand Officer, expressed pride in the Fellowship's achievements over the decade, emphasizing the crucial role small businesses play in today’s economy. In a climate filled with challenges, supporting these businesses is more vital than ever. Keke remarked, "This partnership not only combines our resources and expertise but also maximizes our outreach to support entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our economy. We play a role in fostering creativity, innovation, and community building through this initiative."
The Impact of the Partnership
Aurora James, the founder of Fifteen Percent Pledge, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the innovative nature of this collaboration. The program not only provides a space for entrepreneurs to learn about critical aspects of running a business but also connects them with a robust network that will support their ongoing growth and success. The Tuck School's Building A Successful Business program offers comprehensive education, covering vital topics like financing, marketing strategies, and cash flow management.
Application Process for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Applications for the 2025 Dartmouth Fellowship cohort are set to open soon. SheaMoisture will select ten entrepreneurs from open applications, along with an additional ten from recommendations by strategic partners like Fifteen Percent Pledge. This initiative invites women entrepreneurs in the U.S. and nearby regions to apply for this remarkable opportunity that could change the trajectory of their business.
Transformational Opportunities Await
Entrepreneurs selected for the program stand to gain immense benefits and broader educational foundations essential for growth. Each year, SheaMoisture covers the expenses for 20 seats in the Tuck program, with funding surpassing $400,000 since the program's start. The average profit margins for participants have seen an increase of around 6%, while their actual revenue growth averages around 14.3%. By the end of the period for applications, the Dartmouth Fellowship will have directly aided over 100 women entrepreneurs, further solidifying its role in economic empowerment.
About SheaMoisture and Its Vision
SheaMoisture stands as a champion of beauty and diversity, nurturing the empowerment of the Black community. The brand is committed to “no compromise” beauty, ensuring that all products are formulated with natural ingredients, including shea butter, sourced from women-led cooperatives. This not only enhances hair and skin health but also empowers women globally by creating fair employment opportunities and enhancing economic development.
About Fifteen Percent Pledge
Fifteen Percent Pledge is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to accelerating the growth of small businesses, ensuring that all individuals can contribute to and thrive in the economy. Since its inception, it has provided vital resources to support marginalized entrepreneurs, driving broader visibility and partnership opportunities with various industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dartmouth Fellowship?
The Dartmouth Fellowship, run by SheaMoisture in partnership with Tuck School of Business, supports women entrepreneurs with education and resources.
How does SheaMoisture's partnership with Fifteen Percent Pledge work?
The partnership focuses on recruiting emerging women entrepreneurs and providing them with educational resources and networks for growth.
What are the benefits of joining the Fellowship?
Participants receive business education at Dartmouth, mentorship, and access to a supportive community, which significantly enhances their growth potential.
When do applications open for the 2025 round?
Applications for the 2025 Fellowship cohort will open on September 18, 2025, and close on October 10, 2025.
What has been the financial impact of the fellowship for participants?
Participants have seen significant financial improvements, with an average 6% increase in profit margins and a reported 14.3% revenue growth.
