Entrepreneurship has long been a path to economic independence and wealth creation, yet many Black entrepreneurs face systemic barriers that limit their opportunities. To address these challenges, Shopify, in collaboration with Operation HOPE, launched the One Million Black Businesses (1MBB) Initiative. This groundbreaking program empowers Black entrepreneurs by providing them with essential tools, educational resources, and mentorship to succeed in the digital marketplace.
In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore the new information on the 1MBB Shopify campaign, the key benefits for participants, how to get involved, and the success stories of Black entrepreneurs who have leveraged this initiative to build thriving businesses.
What is Shopify 1MBB?
Launched in 2020, Shopify 1MBB (One Million Black Businesses) is an ambitious initiative to drive economic empowerment by fostering the growth of one million Black-owned businesses by 2030.
This groundbreaking program is the result of a strategic partnership between Shopify—a leading e-commerce platform, and Operation HOPE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to financial literacy and economic advancement for underserved communities.
Historically, Black entrepreneurs have faced systemic barriers such as limited access to capital, business mentorship, and digital tools necessary for success in an increasingly online-driven economy. Shopify 1MBB aims to dismantle these obstacles by providing tangible, high-impact resources to aspiring and existing Black business owners.
Key Benefits Of Black-Owned Business From 1MBB Shopify
In collaboration with Operation HOPE, the Shopify 1MBB initiative aims to empower Black entrepreneurs by providing essential resources and support to establish and grow their businesses. Here are the key benefits of the program:
1. Extended 120-Day Free Shopify Trial
Comprehensive Platform Access: Participants receive a 120-day free trial of Shopify, significantly longer than the standard 14-day trial. This allows ample time to set up and optimize their online stores without immediate financial pressure.
2. Specialized Educational Resources
- E-commerce Certification: Access to the Shopify + 1MBB Ecommerce Certification, equipping entrepreneurs with in-depth knowledge of the Shopify platform and e-commerce strategies.
- Workshops and Webinars: Participation in tailored workshops and webinars focusing on digital marketing, branding, and customer engagement.
3. Mentorship and Community Support
- Personalized Coaching: Guidance from experienced mentors through Operation HOPE’s small business development program, offering insights into business strategy and growth.
- Register for a coaching class with Operation Hope by clicking this link: Operation Hope
- Networking Opportunities: Connection to a supportive community of Black entrepreneurs and industry experts, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
4. Financial Literacy and Access to Capital
- Financial Education: Training on budgeting, credit management, and financial planning to ensure sustainable business operations.
- Funding Assistance: Information on securing grants, loans, and investment opportunities tailored for Black-owned businesses.
5. Comprehensive Business Tools and Resources
- Shopify Features: Full access to Shopify’s suite of tools, including payment processing, inventory management, and sales analytics, enabling efficient business management.
- Third-Party Integrations: Ability to integrate with various apps and services to enhance store functionality and customer experience.
Example: A Black entrepreneur utilizing the 1MBB program can leverage the extended trial to establish an online presence, participate in educational workshops to refine marketing strategies, receive mentorship to navigate business challenges, and access financial resources to scale operations.
For more information or to enroll in the program, visit the official Shopify 1MBB page.
The Shopify 1MBB offer is available only to entrepreneurs in the U.S, Canada, and the U.K. If you're outside these countries, you can still get our offer: Shopify $1/month for 3 months.
Getting Started with Shopify 1MBB’s 120-Day Free Trial
Registering for the Shopify 1MBB 120-day free trial is simple. Just follow these instructions:
Step 1: Visit the Shopify 1MBB Website and Start Your Free Trial
Begin your journey by visiting the Shopify 1MBB page. Click on "Start Free Trial", which will redirect you to Shopify’s onboarding page. Unlike the standard 14-day trial, this exclusive offer grants you a full 120 days of access to Shopify’s e-commerce platform.
Step 2: Self-Identification and Customized Questions
Clicking the button will take you to an online survey.
Since this program is designed specifically for Black entrepreneurs, you will be asked to confirm your identification as a member of the Black community.
The survey is tailored to your specific situation, whether you’re a first-time seller or an experienced business owner.
You can choose your preferred sales channels, connect them to your social media accounts, and define your business location.
Please note that all of this information can be updated later in your Shopify Admin Dashboard.
Step 3: Select Your Plan
To configure your plan, click the "Select a Plan" call-to-action button at the bottom of the page. This step can be completed at any time during your free trial.
Step 4: Choose the Monthly Subscription
Make sure to select the monthly plan rather than the annual one.
The 120-day free trial option will only appear in the pricing table if you fulfill all the eligibility criteria for the Shopify 1MBB program.
Step 5: Verify and Enter Payment Details
Review and confirm your selected plan and business address on the billing page.
Proceed to add a payment method, choosing either a credit card or PayPal for transaction processing.
How Black-Owned Businesses Can Maximize Shopify’s 120-Day Trial
For Black entrepreneurs, Shopify’s 120-day free trial presents a unique opportunity to launch and grow an online business without the immediate pressure of subscription fees. This extended trial period allows business owners to set up their store, refine their operations, and test marketing strategies before committing financially.
To fully leverage this opportunity, it’s essential to focus on branding, product optimization, marketing, and data-driven decision-making. Here’s how to make the most of Shopify’s 120-day trial.
1. Establish a Strong Brand Identity
A well-defined brand sets your business apart in a competitive market. Use the trial period to:
- Craft a compelling brand story that connects with your target audience.
- Design a professional logo and cohesive visual identity using tools like Canva or Adobe Express.
- Choose a Shopify theme that aligns with your brand’s aesthetics and enhances user experience.
2. Optimize Your Product Listings
Your product pages play a crucial role in driving sales. Ensure they are:
- Visually appealing with high-resolution images and engaging product videos.
- Well-written and informative, using clear descriptions with SEO-friendly keywords.
- Competitive in pricing and shipping options to attract and retain customers.
3. Leverage Shopify’s Built-In Tools
Shopify provides a range of features to streamline operations and improve sales. During the trial period, explore:
- Shopify Analytics to track visitor behavior and identify trends.
- Shopify Payments for seamless transactions and reduced third-party processing fees.
- Abandoned cart recovery to recapture lost sales and increase conversion rates.
4. Develop a Marketing Strategy
A strong marketing strategy is key to attracting customers. Focus on:
- Social Media Marketing: Utilize platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase your products and engage with your audience.
- Email Marketing: Build a subscriber list and send exclusive promotions or newsletters.
- SEO Optimization: Improve search rankings by incorporating relevant keywords into product descriptions, blog posts, and metadata.
5. Test and Optimize Before the Trial Ends
Before the 120 days are up, take time to fine-tune your business strategy:
- Conduct a soft launch and gather customer feedback to make necessary adjustments.
- Experiment with different pricing strategies and limited-time promotions to gauge customer interest.
- Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for seamless navigation to enhance the shopping experience.
The Transformative Benefits of the Shopify Black Business Trial
On the Economy
The Shopify 1MBB (1 Million Black Businesses) program has had a profound impact on Black-owned businesses across the United States.
According to Operation Hope, the initiative has supported over 169,000 Black-owned businesses, offering invaluable assistance. Additionally, it has facilitated more than 30,000 hours of professional services, equipping Black business owners with essential tools, resources, and expert guidance.
The program’s influence is undeniable, significantly improving the entrepreneurial landscape for the Black business community.
On the Black Community
The Shopify 1MBB program has been instrumental in empowering Black entrepreneurs. Here are some of the key ways it has positively impacted the broader community:
- Access to Resources: Black entrepreneurs have gained entry to a wealth of educational materials, training programs, business tools, and marketing resources tailored to their needs.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Through Operation Hope, the program connects Black business owners with experienced mentors who provide crucial guidance.
- Networking Opportunities: By fostering a supportive community, the initiative has created spaces for Black entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and grow together.
- Business Visibility: By highlighting Black-owned businesses, the program has contributed to greater diversity in the corporate world and promoted inclusivity.
Beyond benefiting individual businesses, Shopify 1MBB has strengthened the sense of community among Black entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and collective success.
Top 5 Inspiring Success Stories from 1MBB Entrepreneurs
1. The Lip Bar
Melissa Butler, the visionary CEO of The Lip Bar, has redefined the beauty industry by championing diversity. Frustrated by the lack of inclusive products, she set out to create a brand that celebrates all beauty.
Starting with lipstick, The Lip Bar has evolved into a well-known beauty company offering a range of vegan and cruelty-free makeup. More than just a cosmetics brand, it represents ethical and sustainable beauty. The Lip Bar’s influence extends across the U.S., with a flagship store in Detroit and a presence in major retailers like Target.
Website: thelipbar.com
2. CurlMix
Founded in 2015 by Kim and Tim Lewis, CurlMix emerged to fill the gap in the natural hair care market. By 2021, their company had already generated over $23 million in sales.
CurlMix started as a subscription service providing customers with all-natural ingredients to create their own hair treatments at home. The brand has grown tremendously, achieving a pre-investment valuation of $25.5 million through crowdfunding. More than just a business, CurlMix is a movement celebrating natural beauty and self-care.
Website: curlmix.com
3. Daily Paper Clothing
What began in 2008 as a fashion blog by Jefferson Osei, Abderrahmane Trabsini, and Hussein Suleiman has transformed into Daily Paper—an internationally recognized streetwear brand.
Inspired by African heritage and contemporary fashion, Daily Paper debuted with just five branded T-shirts. Today, the brand generates over €30 million in revenue and boasts a devoted following worldwide. Their collection blends modern street style with traditional African influences, redefining fashion with cultural storytelling.
Website: dailypaperclothing.com
4. Chicago French Press
Kris Christian, a former Wall Street analyst, turned her passion for coffee into a thriving business. Dissatisfied with overly sweetened and artificial coffee options, she set out to create bold, naturally flavorful blends that require no additives.
Chicago French Press offers handcrafted, gourmet coffee infused with herbs and spices for a unique taste experience. Their subscription service allows customers to explore new blends each month, turning every cup into an exciting journey of flavors.
Website: chicagofrenchpress.com
5. Jungalow
A fusion of “jungle” and “bungalow,” Jungalow is a vibrant home decor brand that embraces bold colors, natural elements, and a love for plants.
Founded by Justina Blakeney in 2009, Jungalow began as a blog and has grown into a full-fledged lifestyle brand offering decor, planters, and wallpaper. The brand encourages self-expression and helps people design warm, inviting spaces infused with nature.
Website: jungalow.com
FAQs about Shopify 1MBB
1. What happens after the 120-day free trial ends?
At the end of the 120 days, you have two options:
🔹 Continue using Shopify by selecting a paid plan (pricing starts at $39/month)
🔹 Pause or close your store if you decide not to continue
If you do not choose a plan, your store will be suspended, but you won’t be charged unless you opt in for a paid subscription.
2. What resources are available during the 120-day free trial?
Participants have access to:
- Educational Empowerment: A 40-hour Shopify + 1MBB Ecommerce Certification program covering store setup, product sourcing, inventory management, customer acquisition, conversion optimization, and marketing strategies.
- Supportive Community: Access to an exclusive community for Black entrepreneurs, providing networking, collaboration, and support opportunities.
- Shopify Features: Full access to Shopify's tools and features, including website customization, product management, payment options, and analytics.
3. Is there support available during the trial?
Absolutely. Shopify's support team is available to guide you, answer questions, and help you maximize the platform's potential during your entrepreneurial journey.
4. What types of businesses can benefit from Shopify 1MBB?
Shopify 1MBB is great for:
- E-commerce stores (clothing, beauty, jewelry, electronics, etc.)
- Digital products (e-books, courses, music, printables)
- Service-based businesses (consulting, coaching, event planning)
- Dropshipping businesses (selling without holding inventory)
- Subscription-based models (monthly memberships, box subscriptions)
If you’re looking to start or expand your business online, Shopify provides the tools to help.
WRAP UP
The Shopify 1MBB (One Million Black Businesses) Initiative is a program designed to support Black entrepreneurs by providing free business resources, education, and e-commerce tools. Its goal is to help create one million Black-owned businesses by 2030.
This initiative plays a crucial role in empowering Black business owners, offering mentorship, financial literacy training, and access to Shopify’s platform. While challenges like funding and competition exist, 1MBB provides a strong foundation for success. Its long-term impact will depend on continuous support, resource expansion, and adaptability to business needs.
