In a video interview with CBS 46, John Hope Bryant and Drew Lauter of iHeart Atlanta express their enthusiasm for the initiative to narrow the gap in business ownership along racial lines. Drew Lauter has committed iHeart of Atlanta to support the creation of 10,000 black-owned businesses by offering free advertising with audio and video, and event inclusion.
Press Release: https://operationhope.org/iheartmedia-atlanta-announces-multiyear-commitment-to-operation-hopes-1-million-black-business-initiative/
<https://operationhope.org/iheartmedia-atlanta-announces-multi-yearcommitment-to-operation-hopes-1-million-black-business-initiative/>
Drew Lauter, President of iHeartMedia Atlanta, has made a long-term pledge to support Operation HOPE, an Atlanta-based organization that is driving the national 1 Million Black Business Initiative (1MBB). The aim of 1MBB is to launch a million new black businesses by 2030, and iHeartMedia Atlanta is dedicated to helping create new black businesses in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
“Drew Lauter said that he is thrilled to be partnering with Operation HOPE to promote Black entrepreneurship in Atlanta, and that he is proud to utilize the extensive resources of iHeart Atlanta to help Black small business owners achieve their goals.”
“John Hope Bryant, the Founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, expressed his gratitude for iHeartMedia Atlanta’s significant commitment towards the creation of Black-owned businesses in Atlanta, calling it a demonstration of private sector leadership that contributes to making Atlanta the moral capital of America. He also thanked iHeartMedia for supporting the vision of social justice through an economic lens, stating that media support is vital for any movement.”
The 1 Million Black Business Initiative (1MBB), launched in October 2020 with Shopify as the founding partner, aims to encourage more Black entrepreneurs to start and scale their businesses by providing them with resources, education, and tools needed to succeed. The initiative will focus on critical tools such as technology and resources, educational programs, and access to capital to level the playing field. Black business owners can also enroll in Operation HOPE’s model of community uplift, financial literacy, and education, with access to tailored tools and resources upon graduation.
