Washington Football Team is providing grants for Black-owned businesses
The Washington Football Team and United Airlines are joining together to provide economic relief for Black-owned small businesses in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) areas through COVID relief grants.
United Airlines is funding five grants totaling $25,000 for businesses participating in the Washington Football Team Black Engagement Network’s (B.E.N.) Shop Black Directory.
These COVID relief grants will go a long way in providing support and relief for the greater D.C. area.
What will these COVID relief grants do for the greater-D.C. area?
The grants from United Airlines and the Washington Football Team will be put toward business functions such as employee compensation, rent, and operating costs.
“It’s important for us to support the small businesses that bring immeasurable value and cultural vibrance to our DMV community,” said Doug Williams, Super Bowl XXII MVP and Senior Advisor to the Washington Football Team President, Jason Wright.
“We know that Black entrepreneurs face many barriers when it comes to running their businesses and recognize that the last year has been particularly tough on small, minority-owned businesses. Which is why we are excited to partner with United to provide additional resources and support for the members of our Shop Black Directory.”
Washington Football Team’s Doug Williams
Washington Football Team’s Black Engagement Network
The Washington Football Team’s Black Engagement Network has been around since June 2020, and the young initiative is designed to provide support for Black-owned small businesses in the DMV area.
The B.E.N. envisions bringing Black talent to the forefront of operations and leveling the playing field as best as possible in DMV communities.
To be eligible for the grants, businesses must be a certified Black-owned diverse supplier, employ fewer than 15 employees, have been in business for over a year with annual revenues of less than $250,000, located in the DMV, and a member of ‘Shop Black’ since or before May 1st, 2021.
Small businesses from the Shop Black Directory are implored to apply from today, July 15, to August 5 by visiting here.
It is an uncomfortable fact that Black-owned businesses are at risk much more than others. Yet still, it is one that we must accept to fully understand. United Airlines and the Washington Football Team are doing their part to try and provide relief and support in extremely difficult times.