In 1900, James Weldon Johnson penned the poem, “Lift Every Voice And Sing.” Later, his brother J. Rosamond Johnson would put music to that poem, which would be one day known as the Black National Anthem. Written initially to commemorate the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, the anthem is now a song of pride for Black people and speaks to the audacity of hope and a future far beyond many people’s wildest dreams. For years, Black men and women have latched on to that audacity, and through innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, they created a life and a future they could be proud of. As the United States celebrates Black Business Month in August, it is a time to reflect on the glorious past and strategize for a more promising future. LinkedIn is a partner in that strategic effort and collaborated with YouGov to gather data about the state of Black businesses that can help shed light on the great strides the community has made and the opportunities to advance. During its...

Pharrell Williams continues to pour into Black entrepreneurs and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Founded by the global superstar, Black Ambition is returning for its second year to foster Black and Latinx leaders and communities. Entrepreneurs with ventures in products and services, media and entertainment, healthcare, technology, and Web 3.0 are encouraged to apply for a chance to win up to a million dollars. In addition to funding, students will be provided mentorship, resources, and “founder-friendly investment terms.” “When you realize how lucky you are to be in the constellation of the universe and when you learn how it really works, you stop buying vehicles and you create vehicles to drive you. That’s what Black Ambition is, it’s a vehicle for impact. At Black Ambition, we find you and then we fund you,” Williams said, according to a press release. In 2021, Black Ambition supported over 250 entrepreneurs and awarded over $3.2 million to support their...