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Mastercard advances commitment to Black women-owned businesses across the U.S. with yearlong program

Tuesday, February 22, 2022   (0 Comments)
Posted by: Anne Mendenhall

Company progresses its Strivers Initiative to elevate and support Black women business owners with funding, mentorship, as well as the digital and cyber tools to get their businesses online and grow


FEBRUARY 14, 2022 - Nearing the anniversary of the launch of the Strivers Initiative, Mastercard is reaffirming its commitment to Black women small business owners through an expanded partnership with Fearless Fund in its joint mission to fund and support Black women-owned businesses, a Priceless mentorship program, an updated suite of tools aimed at digitally fortifying their operations and a new digital marketplace where consumers can shop, share and support their businesses across the U.S.

Black women received less than 1 percent of venture capital funding given in the first half of 2021[1] despite building businesses at a faster pace than any other segment. Acknowledging the discrepancy between potential and support, Mastercard is celebrating Black History Month by kicking off a yearlong program that drives awareness and impact to these women’s success.

“As Black women business owners look towards the recovery of the pandemic, Mastercard’s commitment to empowering this community of Strivers for long-term growth remains stronger than ever,” said Rustom Dastoor, EVP of North America Marketing and Communications at Mastercard. “Together with our partners, with tools and resources, data, mentorship, partnerships and brand power, the impact we're able to make on individuals and in turn society at large, is truly Priceless.”

Read more about our Wnet Corporate Partner Mastercard.