2022 Black British In Business & Proud l Survey Now Open l BY LLOYDS BANK & BLACK BUSINESS NETWORK [Video]

Calling all Black entrepreneurs – ‘Black. British. In Business & Proud’ survey is now open!

Last year, we showcased the power of action when we used our collective voices to highlight the obstacles Black entrepreneurs face, in collaboration with @LloydsBankBusiness

The findings and recommendations gave us a real kickstart to our goal of removing the barriers we face as entrepreneurs. Also, how financial institutions can play a big part in the forward movement of this positive change;

KEY STATS WE FOUND:
– Funding remains the top support that is needed marketing & PR close -behind. Nearly 1 in 4 (23%) need financial skills & cashflow management & 1 in 5 (19%) need help in understanding funding and eligibility.

– 52% of Black business owners are not confident in applying for financing; specifically applying for a business loan or grant.

– Only 2 in 5 (43%) business owners trust banks to have the best interests of Black entrepreneurs in mind

KEY RECOMMENDED ACTIONS PUT FORWARD:
– Increase proactive partnerships with grassroots and local community organisations

– Provide education and upskilling in key areas such as finance, marketing, digital, legal, and leadership

– Create a central hub of trusted information, skills, networks and mentors

WHAT’S BEEN DONE SO FAR:
Based on our recommendations Lloyds Bank partnered with BBN, Foundervine, Mentor Black Business and Jamii producing a variety of educational and marketplace events such as BBN’s BI360 Finance Festival, Foundervine’s Immerse Programme, MBB’s Mentorship Programme & Jamii’s Black Business Marketplace.

…BUT there is still much to do to truly amplify and harness our collective power!

THIS YEAR WE ARE FOCUSING ON…
– Access to finance
– Understanding what influences entrepreneurs
– Access to information
– How to take action

It’s time to build our ecosystem and show that we are united in purpose. It’s time to share your voice.

TAKE SURVEY NOW
https://www.blackbusinessnetwork.online/survey

The survey is open until Friday 12th June 2022.

FORWARDS EVER, BACKWARDS NEVER 👊🏽👊🏾👊🏿