Several Black-owned businesses, selling items ranging from electronics to wigs, have received $10,000 grants from eBay. In late September, the company selected 50 U.S. sellers to receive these grants, totaling $500,000. Along with the financial support, recipients were also provided with training and mentorship to help strengthen and grow their businesses. Additionally, finalists received a $500 stipend to purchase essential business technology through eBay Refurbished.
The grants are part of eBay’s Up & Running program, which is in its fifth year. The company received 18,000 applications from 28 states, making this the largest and most diverse pool of applicants in the program’s history. According to eBay’s U.S. General Manager Dawn Block, “Entrepreneurship is at the heart of eBay. We are committed to empowering small business owners and providing the tools they need to be successful.”
eBay, which has supported small businesses since 1995, operates in over 190 markets worldwide and had a gross merchandise volume of $73 billion last year. This year’s applicant pool included 19% more early-stage entrepreneurs compared to the previous year.
Some Black entrepreneurs who received the grants shared how they plan to use the funds. Walter Roberts, owner of The Buying Spot, which sells consumer electronics and clothing, plans to invest in new equipment, make bulk purchases, and attend eBay’s reseller conference. Rickie Miller, owner of Kris Kross Wigs, will use the funds to employ and train women in homeless shelters, while also investing in materials to make her wigs more affordable. Jonathan Copeland, who runs Vino Club Village, plans to invest in high-quality products and enhance the customer experience in his sports memorabilia and toy business.
For more details about eBay’s Up & Running Grants program, visit their official website.
