TikTok has partnered with Black Girl Ventures (BGV) to launch the 2025 SOAR Together accelerator program, offering vital support to Black women entrepreneurs. The six-week initiative will select 20 Black-owned businesses for comprehensive mentorship and exclusive access to TikTok Shop resources.
Digital Innovation Meets Black Entrepreneurship
The SOAR Together accelerator program focuses on helping Black-owned businesses maximize their potential through TikTok Shop, the platform’s e-commerce feature launched in September 2023. Participants will receive expert coaching and educational resources designed to boost their digital presence.
A recent Oxford Economics study revealed that 57% of Black-owned small and medium-sized businesses consider TikTok “critical to their business’s existence,” compared to 36% of white business owners. Canvas Beauty founder Stormi Steele exemplifies this impact, becoming the first Black woman to earn $1 million in a single live session.
Building on Million-Dollar Commitment to Economic Equality
This initiative builds upon TikTok’s previous $1 million investment in Black Girl Ventures, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to removing financial and systemic barriers. The partnership aims to create equitable opportunities within the digital marketplace.
Black Girl Ventures, founded by entrepreneur and computer scientist Omi Bell, continues its mission to increase access to capital and resources for women of color in business. The organization has established itself as a leading force in supporting Black women entrepreneurs.
Celebrating Black Voices Amid Platform Uncertainty
Despite facing recent challenges, including a court-mandated ban delay, TikTok continues to champion Black creators and business owners. The platform recently launched #BlackTikTok Voices To Watch, highlighting influential Black changemakers in education, entertainment, beauty, fashion, food, and lifestyle.
Notable creators featured in this year’s program include @afamstudies, @thelaybankz, and @cocoaasante, showcasing the platform’s dedication to amplifying diverse voices.
Interested entrepreneurs can apply for the SOAR Together accelerator program through February 21, 2025, via Black Girl Ventures’ official website.
