Best-selling author and journalist Elaine Welteroth is partnering with American Express to highlights small business owners, reports Forbes.
In a newly launched video series podcast titled “Built To Last,” Welteroth is sharing the stories of Black business owners to discuss their personal journeys and the significance of minority-owned entrepreneurs.
“I was really grateful to have the opportunity to partner with American Express on a project with purpose. Our missions were aligned in wanting to build a platform that educates and inspires the next generation of Black entrepreneurs while also encouraging continued patronage of the many Black businesses that need our support, now more than ever Built to Last dives into the stories, history and continued legacy of Black-owned small businesses that have shaped American culture,” said Welteroth.
Thus far, the podcast has featured Pinky Cole, the founder of Slutty Vegan, CEOs Issa Rae and Hannah Diop of Sienna Naturals, Melissa Butler of The Lip Bar, and many others.
“I interview trailblazers who are creating their own blueprints for success during unprecedented times and who are thriving against the odds across industries. We touch the worlds of fashion, beauty, interiors, and hospitality. It’s a really fascinating and diverse mix of voices!”
In a continued effort to support Black entrepreneurs, American Express has also established a $10 million fund, the Coalition to Black Businesses, to revitalize Black businesses during and post-pandemic — for the next four years.
“We also worked with Vox to create a custom map of 100 Black-owned businesses for consumers to shop at online or in-person and are partnering with IFundWomen of Color to launch the “100 for 100” program, providing 100 Black female entrepreneurs with grants of $25,000 each and access to business resources to help them jumpstart their ventures,” Walter Frye, Vice President of Global Brand Engagement at American Express, said.
Listen and watch the podcast here.
