Q&A: Championing Black-owned businesses in partnership with the Black Equity Organisation

Black entrepreneurs continue to face significant barriers that can hinder their success. Research by Extend Ventures showed that between 2009 and 2019, only 0.24% of capital in the UK was allocated to Black founders with just 0.02% to Black female entrepreneurs. Since 2022, Sky has worked with the Black Equity Organisation (BEO) to tackle inequalities in funding for Black entrepreneurs and support them to grow and develop their businesses. Through the Future 100 Growth Fund, the partnership provides a tailored 12-week workshop and mentoring programme, investment of up to £15,000, and 12-months free Sky Business broadband and phone package, as well as expert business advice. So far, 54% of businesses supported by the Fund are female led. Claudia Osei-Nsafoah, Sky’s Chief People Officer, Group Talent and D&I speaks to two women-led businesses, Mama Dolce and Philly & Friends, that have been supported by the Fund. Claudia Osei-Nsafoah: Could you share the story behind why you created your business and what unique gap or need it addresses in the market? Jane Visram, Founder, Mama Dolce: The genesis of Mama Dolce rather selfishly was my experience of a short-term dairy allergy. I really struggled to conveniently find anything that was indulgent and...