Shopify, the leading e-commerce platform, has launched an innovative initiative called Shopify 1MBB (1 Million Black Businesses) in partnership with Operation HOPE.
This groundbreaking program aims to support and empower Black entrepreneurs by providing them with the tools, resources, and education needed to establish and grow successful online businesses.
The Shopify 1MBB program is exclusively designed for Black-owned businesses in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It offers an extended free trial of the Shopify e-commerce platform, along with additional resources and support tailored to the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs.
In collaboration with Operation HOPE, a non-profit organization dedicated to financial literacy and economic empowerment, Shopify 1MBB seeks to create one million new Black-owned businesses by 2030.
This guide will explain the program’s details, eligibility criteria, and how to maximize this exceptional opportunity.
Shopify 1MBB In A Nutshell
Find all the details you need about the Shopify 1MBB initiative summarized in the table below:
| Shopify 1MBB | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Shopify 1 Million Black Businesses (1MBB) |
| Eligibility | Black-owned businesses in the US, Canada, and UK |
| Price | Standard Shopify pricing after 120-day free trial |
| Free Trial | 120 days (extended from the standard 14 days) |
| Refund Policy | Subject to standard Shopify refund terms |
What Is Shopify 1MBB?
Shopify 1MBB is a transformative initiative designed to address the systemic barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs in the business world.
The program provides an extended 120-day free trial of Shopify’s e-commerce platform, significantly longer than the standard 14-day trial offered to other users.
This extended period allows Black business owners to fully explore and utilize Shopify’s features without immediate financial pressure.
Beyond the extended trial, Shopify 1MBB offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including educational content, mentorship opportunities, and access to a supportive community of fellow Black entrepreneurs.
The program will equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and networks to build sustainable and successful online businesses.
By partnering with Operation HOPE, Shopify enhances the program’s impact through additional financial literacy education and support. This collaboration aims to create a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem and contribute to long-term economic empowerment within the Black community.
Eligibility – Shopify 1MBB
Shopify 1MBB is tailored explicitly for Black-owned businesses that meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Location: The business must be based in the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom.
- Ownership: The business must be at least 50% Black-owned. This ensures that the program benefits businesses with significant Black ownership and leadership.
- Paid Shopify Plan: To join the 1MBB community, businesses must be on a paid Shopify plan after the 120-day free trial period. Free trials and paused
subscriptions are not eligible for community membership. - Terms of Service: Participants must abide by Shopify’s standard terms of service, ensuring a fair and respectful business environment for all users.
It’s important to note that the program is designed to support both new and existing Black-owned businesses.
Whether you’re just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking to expand your existing online presence, Shopify 1MBB offers valuable resources and support to help you succeed.
Shopify 1MBB Inclusions
The Shopify 1MBB program offers a comprehensive package of benefits designed to support Black entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey:
1. 120-Day Shopify Free Trial
- Extended access to Shopify’s full suite of e-commerce tools and features
- Ample time to set up, customize, and launch your online store
- Opportunity to test different strategies and optimize your business model
2. Access to Shopify’s ‘Build Black’ Programming
- Specialized content and resources tailored to the unique needs of Black entrepreneurs
- Insights into building a successful e-commerce business in today’s competitive landscape
3. Educational Content And Programming
- Webinars and workshops covering various aspects of e-commerce and business management
- Topics may include marketing, inventory management, customer service, and financial planning
4. 1:1 Coaching/Mentoring Opportunities
- Personal guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Tailored advice to address your specific business challenges and goals
5. Additional Perks And Opportunities
- Exclusive offers from Shopify partners and service providers
- Networking events and community-building initiatives
6. Ecommerce Certification
- Opportunity to earn a Shopify-recognized certification
- Validation of your e-commerce skills and knowledge
These inclusions are designed to provide a holistic support system for Black entrepreneurs, combining practical tools with education, mentorship, and community support.
How To Get Started With Shopify 1MBB?
Getting started with the Shopify 1MBB program is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to begin your journey:
Step 1: Visit this link and click ‘Register’ to access the dedicated Operation Hope program page.
Step 2: Complete the Self-Identification Form with your details to proceed.
Step 3: Review and Accept Program Terms Carefully read through the program terms and conditions and accept them to proceed.
Step 4: Next, you will be taken to the Operation Hope dashboard, where you must scroll down, select the 1 million black business initiative tab, and click next.
Step 5: After selecting, further click on ‘Select a coach’ to proceed with your coaching.
Step 6: Select your city and the coaching mode you wish to proceed with.
Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions next to select a coach and access the Shopify + Operation Hope 1MBB resources.
Step 8: Finally, after selecting the coach, you can schedule appointments with them, get personalized guidance, and get the most helpful 120-day Shopify free trial
Making The Most Of Shopify 1MBB 120-Day Free Trial – Quick Checklist
The extended 120-day free trial offered by Shopify 1MBB provides a fresh opportunity for Black entrepreneurs to build and refine their online businesses.
Here’s how to maximize this valuable time:
1. Store Setup And Customization
- Choose and customize a theme that aligns with your brand
- Set up your product catalog with high-quality images and detailed descriptions
- Configure shipping rates and tax settings
- Implement payment gateways and ensure a smooth checkout process
2. Marketing And SEO Optimization
- Develop a content strategy for your product pages and blog
- Implement SEO best practices to improve your store’s visibility
- Experiment with different marketing channels (social media, email, influencer partnerships)
- Set up and test various promotional campaigns
3. Analytics And Optimization
- Familiarize yourself with Shopify’s analytics tools
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as conversion rates and average order value
- A/B test different elements of your store to optimize user experience
- Gather customer feedback and make necessary improvements
4. Inventory And Order Management
- Set up efficient inventory tracking systems
- Develop a strategy for order fulfillment and shipping
- Implement customer service protocols and tools
5. Financial Planning
- Develop a pricing strategy for your products
- Create financial projections and set realistic goals
- Explore Shopify’s financial tools and integrations
6. Skill Development
- Participate in Shopify’s webinars and workshops
- Complete relevant courses in the Shopify Academy
- Engage with mentors and seek advice on specific challenges
By focusing on these areas during your 120-day trial, you’ll be well-positioned to launch a robust and competitive e-commerce business.
Shopify 1MBB Certification
The Shopify 1MBB E-commerce Certification is a valuable credential offered to participants of the program. This certification is designed to validate your expertise in e-commerce and your proficiency in using the Shopify platform.
Who Gets the Certification?
The certification is available to all participants of the Shopify 1MBB program who complete the required coursework and pass the associated assessments.
It’s not automatic upon joining the program; you’ll need to invest time and effort into learning and demonstrating your knowledge.
What It Means
Earning the Shopify 1MBB Ecommerce Certification signifies that you have:
- Comprehensive understanding of e-commerce principles and best practices.
- Proficiency in using Shopify’s tools and features to build and manage an online store.
- Knowledge of key areas such as digital marketing, inventory management, and customer service in an e-commerce context.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of online business.
The certification can be a valuable asset for your business, demonstrating to customers, partners, and potential investors that you have the skills and knowledge to run a successful e-commerce operation.
It can also open doors to networking opportunities within the Shopify ecosystem and the broader e-commerce community.
Shopify 1MBB Charges – How Much Does It Cost?
The Shopify 1MBB program offers an extended 120-day free trial, which is significantly longer than Shopify’s standard 14-day trial. During this period, participants have full access to Shopify’s features without any charges.
After the 120-day trial period, Shopify 1MBB participants transition to standard pricing plans. As of 2024, these plans, when paid annually, are priced as follows:
| Plan | Monthly Price (Annual Billing) |
|---|---|
| Basic Shopify | $29/month |
| Shopify | $79/month |
| Advanced Shopify | $299/month |
It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change, and you should always check the current pricing on Shopify’s official website.
Is 1MBB cheaper than a standard Shopify plan?
While the Shopify 1MBB program doesn’t offer discounted rates after the trial period, the extended 120-day free trial provides significant value.
This four-month period allows participants to fully set up their store, start generating revenue, and determine the most suitable plan for their business before incurring any costs.
Additionally, the extra resources, education, and support provided through the 1MBB program add substantial value beyond the standard Shopify offering, even though they don’t translate to a lower monthly fee after the trial.
Participants should use the trial period to evaluate which plan best suits their needs and budget. Remember, you can always start with a lower-tier plan and upgrade as your business grows.
Shopify 1MBB Resources
Shopify 1MBB provides a wealth of resources designed to support Black entrepreneurs in their e-commerce journey. Here’s an overview of the key resources available:
Shopify 1MBB offers a comprehensive suite of resources to support Black entrepreneurs in their e-commerce journey. Here’s an overview of the key resources available:
1. Educational Content
Participants can access a wide range of educational materials designed to enhance their e-commerce knowledge and skills.
This includes webinars covering various aspects of online business, video tutorials demonstrating Shopify features, detailed written guides, insightful case studies, and full access to Shopify Academy courses.
Learn more: Shopify Academy
2. Mentorship And Coaching
The program offers valuable mentorship opportunities to guide entrepreneurs through their business journey.
This includes one-on-one sessions with experienced entrepreneurs, group mentoring sessions for collaborative learning, and office hours with Shopify experts. These personalized interactions provide tailored advice and support for specific business challenges.
Explore mentorship opportunities within the Operation HOPE dashboard
3. Community Support
1MBB fosters a strong sense of community among its participants. Entrepreneurs gain access to a dedicated community forum where they can share experiences and seek advice.
The program also organizes networking events, both virtual and in-person, facilitating connections and collaborations. Peer-to-peer learning opportunities further enrich the community experience.
Join the community: Shopify Community
4. Financial Literacy Education
In partnership with Operation HOPE, the program provides comprehensive financial education. This includes workshops on business finance fundamentals, guidance on accessing capital and managing cash flow, and various resources to enhance financial decision-making skills.
Learn about financial resources: Operation HOPE
5. Technical Support
Participants receive priority customer service to address any technical issues promptly.
Additionally, the program provides troubleshooting guides for common technical problems, ensuring businesses can quickly and efficiently overcome technical hurdles.
Access support: Shopify Help Center
6. Business Growth Resources
To facilitate business expansion, 1MBB offers tools for market research and competitor analysis.
Participants receive guidance on scaling operations and information on international expansion, supporting their long-term growth strategies.
Explore growth strategies: Shopify Plus
7. Legal And Compliance Resources
The program provides valuable information on business registration and licensing processes. It also offers guidance on e-commerce regulations and compliance, helping entrepreneurs navigate the legal landscape of online business.
Learn about e-commerce regulations: Shopify Legal
To access some of these resources, participants typically need to log into their Shopify account and navigate to the 1MBB program section.
Note: Remember to check regularly for updates, as new resources may be added to support the evolving needs of Black entrepreneurs.
Shopify 1MBB Impact Till Date
The Shopify 1MBB initiative has significantly empowered Black-owned businesses since its launch. While exact figures may vary over time, here are some key impacts based on recent data:
- Business Creation
- As of 2024, the program has supported the creation of over 396,000 Black-owned businesses.
- Resource Allocation
- Black-owned businesses supported small businesses via loans up to $26M+
- Mentorship and Education
- Over 30,000 hours of professional services have been volunteered to Black business owners through the program.
- This includes mentoring, coaching, and specialized training sessions.
- Community Building
- The program has fostered a growing community of Black entrepreneurs, facilitating networking and collaboration.
- This community aspect has been crucial in providing peer support and shared learning experiences.
- Digital Transformation
- 1MBB has accelerated the digital transformation of many traditional Black-owned businesses, helping them establish an online presence and reach wider markets.
- Awareness and Visibility
- The initiative has increased visibility for Black-owned businesses, both within the Shopify ecosystem and in the broader market.
- Features like the Black-owned business discovery tool on the Shop app have helped consumers find and support these businesses.
- Financial Literacy
- Through partnership with Operation HOPE, the program has improved financial literacy among participants, equipping them with crucial skills for business management and growth.
These impacts demonstrate the significant role Shopify 1MBB is playing in addressing systemic barriers and creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
As the program continues, its influence is expected to grow, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse e-commerce landscape.
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Conclusion: Shopify 1MBB Has Been A Boon For Black Businesses!
The Shopify 1MBB initiative represents a unique opportunity for Black entrepreneurs to build and grow successful online businesses.
This program addresses many of the systemic barriers that have historically challenged Black-owned businesses by providing an extended 120-day free trial, comprehensive resources, and a supportive community.
For eligible entrepreneurs, Shopify 1MBB offers more than just an e-commerce platform – it provides a launchpad for realizing your business dreams.
The program’s impact to date demonstrates its potential to create lasting changes for communities. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in the US, Canada, or the UK, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity.
Don’t let this chance to transform your business idea into a thriving online store pass you by. Take the first step towards your e-commerce success, and seize this opportunity to build, grow, and succeed with Shopify 1MBB!
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