Wray & Nephew supports Black businesses

Jamaican rum brand Wray & Nephew has launched the third edition of its Wray Forward programme, which provides support and funding for Black-owned businesses in the UK. The initiative gives Black business owners tools to pitch their projects and has supported more than 3,800 entrepreneurs so far The programme – launched in collaboration with Foundervine, an inclusive London-based business training and coaching platform – provides Black entrepreneurs with access to mentorship opportunities, educational workshops and networking events. It was first launched in December 2021 after the rum brand discovered that 68% of Black entrepreneurs surveyed said there weren’t enough tools and resources available to them, while 76% said they would have found success for their business goals much quicker if these tools were accessible. The initiative’s third year will celebrate community by creating supportive environments that enable Black founders to connect and collaborate. For 2024, the main objective is to increase access to funding for Black founders, after 20% of founders surveyed expressed that they have struggled to raise funds. Izzy Obeng, co-founder of Foundervine, said: “Black founders face numerous limitations, including restricted access to capital, networks and opportunities. “In 2024, we’re aiming to help more Black founders and entrepreneurs...