Win $35K for Your Black-Owned Biz: AI Illumination Grant 2024!

Black-owned e-commerce businesses: Turn AI from intimidating to invaluable—and compete for $35,000 in grants

Why This Matters: The AI Illumination Grant, backed by the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a16z CLF, and Hartbeat Ventures, is a two-part opportunity to:

• Learn how AI can transform your business through expert-led webinars (March 13 & 21).
• Compete for a  20K top prize or 15K runner-up award to implement AI tools. 

Key Perks:

• No revenue minimum—ideal for early-stage businesses (1–15 employees).
• Free webinars on AI for storytelling (Gamma) and product design (Raspberry AI).
• Grant funding with no equity taken—pure growth capital.

Eligibility Snapshot:

• Black-owned (50%+ equity by Black founder(s)).
• E-commerce business selling physical products.
• Must attend at least 1 webinar and join the Business Equity Community.

Grant Application Deadline: May 2, 2024.

Key Dates:

• Webinar #1: March 13, 3–4 PM ET (AI for Storytelling).
• Webinar #2: March 21, 3–4 PM ET (AI for Product Design).
• Winners Announced: Early June 2024.

Eligible Regions: Open to U.S.-based Black-owned e-commerce businesses (assumed—adjust if global).

Eligibility Requirements:

• Black-owned (≥50% equity by Black founder(s)).
• E-commerce selling physical products.
• 1–15 employees (founder included).
• Attend 1+ webinar and join the Business Equity Community.