Drapers England stands as the only Northern brand in the 2024 Black in Business shortlist.
- This initiative by Channel 4 and Lloyds supports Black entrepreneurs.
- 56% of Black businesses get funded post-success compared to 35% of white businesses.
- 84% of Black entrepreneurs face discrimination during setup, as noted by Lloyds’ report.
- The program offers TV airtime, ads creation, and business advice to winners.
Drapers England, a Yorkshire-based distillery, proudly emerges as the sole Northern brand on the prestigious shortlist of Channel 4’s 2024 Black in Business initiative. This initiative, in partnership with Lloyds, aims to assist Black entrepreneurs by offering them significant business opportunities and addressing the challenges they face.
Channel 4 and Lloyds have committed to supporting Black entrepreneurs through this initiative by providing access to transformative resources. The initiative highlights a disparity where 56% of Black-owned businesses receive funding only after success, compared to 35% of their white counterparts. Additionally, the Lloyds’ 2022 report indicates that a notable 84% of Black business owners encounter discrimination in their entrepreneurial journey.
Now in its second year, Black in Business expands its offerings with £150,000 in TV advertising on Channel 4 available to four successful businesses. The program aims to boost these entrepreneurs by providing tailored expertise, business advice from Lloyds, and the creation of individualized Channel 4 TV advertisements.
Drapers England, known for its luxurious spirits inspired by British craftsmanship, is hand-distilled in the Yorkshire Dales. Despite the shortlist being predominantly filled with brands from London and the South East, Drapers England stands out with its unique Northern presence.
Other notable candidates include the MAMA Youth project, a London charity aiding young media aspirants from underrepresented backgrounds, and Storymix, a South East fiction studio focused on inclusive storytelling. Each business brings a unique vision to the table.
Ewan Douglas from Channel 4 Sales emphasized the strength and promise of the shortlisted candidates, highlighting their potential impact through Channel 4 advertising. Elyn Corfield from Lloyds reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to equality in the business landscape, focusing on growth and innovation within Black-owned enterprises.
Drapers England’s achievement is a testament to the program’s commitment to empowering diverse entrepreneurs.
