*Pharrell Williams‘ nonprofit, Black Ambition, has opened applications for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition, continuing its work to support underrepresented entrepreneurs and address wealth disparities.
This year, up to 25 participants will have access to over $1 million in funding, along with mentorship, resources, and capital to help grow their businesses and drive industry innovation.
“Five years ago, Black Ambition was an idea. Today, it’s a force. A catalyst for change. A platform where underrepresented entrepreneurs don’t just get a seat at the table—they build new tables, positioning themselves for uninterrupted success,” Williams stated in a press release. “When we invest in diverse talent, we unlock limitless potential. But this is just the beginning. Let’s keep building, keep breaking barriers, and keep rewriting the rules. I can’t wait to see what we do in the next five years.”
This year, the initiative is expanding its impact with over $1 million in funding available for more than 25 promising founders.
Beyond financial support, participants will gain access to mentorship and strategic resources through the Black Ambitionist Mentorship Program, a 12-week journey culminating in the 5th Annual Demo Day. Founders will also engage in Clarity Councils, virtual advisory groups led by senior executives, and Learning Labs featuring expert-led educational sessions.
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Additionally, Black Ambition is strengthening its engagement with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the return of the So Ambitious Pre-Accelerator Program, now in its third year, providing early-stage founders with mentorship and funding.
More than just a competition, Black Ambition offers entrepreneurs access to an influential network of corporate leaders, investors, and industry experts, along with holistic support that includes wellness workshops and personalized coaching. With these opportunities, the initiative continues to empower diverse innovators and help them scale their businesses.
“Black Ambition’s fifth anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s proof of what happens when vision, resilience, and community come together,” stated Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition. “It’s a testament to what’s possible when we invest in each other. What started as a mission to close the wealth and opportunity gap has grown into a global movement, proving that underrepresented founders don’t just belong in the room—they are redefining the game.”
Speaking to Vibe following last year’s event, Pharrell said, “I think that young Black and Brown ideas and businesses lack the mentorship,” he stated. “So really, handy scaffolding that one would need when launching a business, or having a start up. There’s lack of interconnectivity and the power of interconnectivity that you get from when you galvanize. The answer to your question is Black Ambition. This is the place where you can come and you can galvanize and you can be a part of a village, a part of a beehive—people who all have very similar ambitions to yours. Black Ambition is a place where you can get these things.”
“Every successful demographic in this nation, they’re successful because they first galvanized,” he added. “When all you literally have to do. Then they talk to each other and mentor each other. It is time that we do that. The minute that we do that, it will be our day.”
Join the Movement:
- Apply or Refer: If you or someone you know is a founder making a difference, apply or encourage them to apply for the Black Ambition Prize Competition.
- Volunteer and Mentor: Consider volunteering to review applications or signing up to mentor our top applicants. Your expertise can make a direct impact on the next generation of leaders.
Upcoming Events:
- Information Sessions and Webinars: Register for two upcoming webinars to learn more about the application process, hear from alumni, and engage directly with our team.
- Q&A: Ask Us Anything: March 12, 2025, at 12pm PST – Register Here
- Founders Panel: Prize Winner Alumni Spotlight: March 19, 2025, at 12pm PST – Register Here
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