Latest news with #BlackAmbition
Fibre2Fashion
26-05-2025
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
US based RedDrop debuts period swimwear for teens & tweens
RedDrop, a rising star in the wellness industry for its innovative tween period care and education, today drops its newest product to accompany girls in all their summertime activities: period swimwear. RedDrop's period swimwear can be worn any day during a girl's period as an alternative to pads or tampons. It's designed for versatility as a bikini bottom in classic black that can mix and match with any bikini top. As with RedDrop's other menstrual products, the bikini bottoms are specifically made for girls' smaller, changing bodies. The age-appropriate swimwear comes in a range of sizes from Youth XS (Kids size 8-10) to Women's XL (Juniors size 14-16). RedDrop has launched period swimwear for tweens, designed as a versatile, non-toxic bikini bottom that supports summer activities without interruptions. Available in sizes from Youth XS to Women's XL, it holds up to 18g of flow and includes educational resources. The launch follows major investments, including a $1million Black Ambition prize and a $200K Fifteen Percent Pledge Award. "We designed our period swimwear to be a perfect fit for tweens to participate in summer activities uninterrupted, from a day at the pool or beach to a weekend at the lake to sleepaway camp," said Dana Roberts, Co-Founder of RedDrop. "The swimwear also comes with empowering, straightforward educational resources to build confidence and body literacy. All girls should have access to affordable period care products made to meet their needs, no matter when their period starts." RedDrop's period swimwear is made from fragrance-free, PFAS-free and non-toxic materials that form moisture-wicking layers and flexible fits that move with growing – and swimming – bodies. The bottoms hold up to two light pads or three light tampons of flow (up to 12-18 grams) and won't get waterlogged after a dip in the pool. The new product launch comes on the heels of significant investments in RedDrop and its mission to address menstrual inequity with tween period products and educational resources. In November 2024, the minority- and women-owned company won the $1 million grand prize from Black Ambition, Pharrell Williams' non-profit organization to support Black and Hispanic Entrepreneurs. In February 2025, RedDrop won the Fifteen Percent Pledge Achievement Award totaling $200K. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a racial equity and economic justice non-profit that addresses inequities in the American consumer economy and works towards closing the racial wealth gap. Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (HU)
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pharrell Williams' ‘Black Ambition' Unveils $1M Digital Learning Lab For Florida Entrepreneurs
Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition is continuing its work to close the equity gap in entrepreneurship by launching a $1 million virtual learning program aimed at empowering Florida-based entrepreneurs. On April 21, Black Ambition introduced the Fundable Founders Learning Lab, a major step in a two-year statewide initiative aimed at uplifting 500 entrepreneurs across Florida. The 10-week virtual program is designed to equip Florida-based founders with the tools they need to grow, including access to funding, mentorship, expert-led training, and a strong support network. 'Entrepreneurs are facing unprecedented challenges—from shrinking access to capital, uncertain supply chain logistics to dwindling community resources,' Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition, said in a press release. 'This $1 million donation is more than just funding—it's fuel for a new generation of fundable founders building bold, innovative solutions right here in Florida.' While the program is open to all entrepreneurs, it still places a special focus on empowering underrepresented founders from underrepresented communities to help them overcome barriers hindering the success and longevity of their ventures. Black Ambition chose Florida as its focus, recognizing the state's 1 million+ minority-owned businesses facing challenges in accessing capital and scaling. Participants in the virtual learning lab will explore sessions covering marketing, capital strategy, partnerships, customer growth, and more. They'll get hands-on coaching from top entrepreneurs and operators, plus direct access to capital through curated investor connections. As a bonus, they'll join the Black Ambition Network for continued support, exclusive events, and future funding opportunities. 'If you've got a bold vision and a business worth backing with a world-class network and resources, this is your moment,' said Black Ambition Managing Director Jermeen Sherman. 'Apply now, and let us help turn your hustle into impact.' Applications are now open through April 30, 2025. Florida entrepreneurs from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for the free, fully virtual opportunity to build, grow, and scale their ventures. RELATED CONTENT: Pharrell Williams' Paris Art Exhibit Serves As 'An Homage To Black Women' Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
24-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
PHARRELL WILLIAMS' BLACK AMBITION OPENS THE APPLICATION FOR ITS FIFTH ANNUAL PRIZE COMPETITION, EMPOWERING UNDERREPRESENTED ENTREPRENEURS
The competition exemplifies Black Ambition's unwavering commitment to empowering diverse entrepreneurs, setting the standard for mentorship, funding, and resources that equip founders to scale, innovate, and redefine industries, uninterrupted NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Black Ambition, the non-profit organization founded by Pharrell Williams, announced today they are now accepting applications for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition. Grounded firmly in the belief of closing the wealth gaps and strengthening the pipeline of underrepresented founders, the organization continues to provide underrepresented entrepreneurs with the capital, mentorship, and resources necessary to scale their ventures and transform industries. With more than $1 million in funding for up to 25 applicants, Black Ambition is unwavering in its commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering the success of underrepresented founders. 'Black Ambition's fifth anniversary is more than a milestone—it's proof of what happens when vision, resilience, and community come together. It's a testament to what's possible when we invest in each other. What started as a mission to close the wealth and opportunity gap has grown into a global movement, proving that underrepresented founders don't just belong in the room—they are redefining the game,' says Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Black Ambition. The competition is open to early-stage entrepreneurs innovating in consumer products & services, healthcare, media and entertainment, technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Selected founders will embark on a 12-week transformative journey, gaining high-level mentorship, business development support, and access to an influential network of investors and industry leaders through the Black Ambitionist Mentorship Program powered by Cinematica Labs. 'The road ahead is one of greater impact, deeper connection, and an unwavering belief that when we uplift one, we uplift all,' continues Hatcher. 'To every entrepreneur, every dreamer, and every changemaker—we see you, we celebrate you, and we are building with you. The journey continues, and one truth remains: We got us. And we are just getting started.' Throughout the program, participants will refine their strategies, sharpen their pitches, and position their businesses for long-term success. The journey culminates at Black Ambition's 5th Annual Demo Day in November, where founders will have the opportunity to receive up to $1M+ in funding, further expanding the ecosystem of talented, underrepresented founders making an impact. 'Five years ago, Black Ambition was an idea. Today, it's a force. A catalyst for change. A platform where underrepresented entrepreneurs don't just get a seat at the table—they build new tables, positioning themselves for uninterrupted success.. when we invest in diverse talent, we unlock limitless potential,' says Pharrell Williams, Founder of Black Ambition. 'But this is just the beginning. Let's keep building, keep breaking barriers, and keep rewriting the rules. I can't wait to see what we do in the next five years.' The Black Ambition Prize Competition begins with 150-200 standout semifinalists selected for a three-month mentorship program, equipping them with invaluable insights, strategic guidance, and access to influential business leaders. The top 40 founders will then advance to a public voting round and pitch training, ensuring they are well-prepared for the final stage of the competition. The top 20 finalists will receive funding and select founders will receive pitch deck design support and pitch coaching from industry experts. Black Ambition redefines what it means to win. While traditional prizes focus solely on cash awards, Black Ambition's prize competition provides a comprehensive suite of resources—including high-caliber networking events, immersive mentorship, and tailored strategic support—collectively valued at over $1M. For participants, this is a gateway to unparalleled industry access, high-impact learning, and strategic partnerships that elevate startups to new heights. 'Winning Black Ambition was more than just funding; it was a turning point that brought validation, opportunity, and a catalyst for growth,' said Dr. Monica Williams, CEO and Founder of RedDrop and 2024 Black Ambition Prize winner. 'With their investment, we've been able to scale our vision, refine our strategy, and launch into new levels of success. The support from Black Ambition extends beyond capital—it encompasses mentorship, strategic workshops, and a vibrant community of visionary founders that fuels innovation and accountability.' Since its inception in 2020, Black Ambition has awarded approximately $13 million to 131 visionary entrepreneurs, with its founder network collectively raising over $280 million and generating more than $265 million in revenue. At the 2024 Demo Day, Black Ambition awarded approximately $2.7 million to 30 groundbreaking founders. The 5th Annual Demo Day will continue this legacy, spotlighting the next wave of visionary leaders and catalyzing real change in the business landscape. Applications for the 2025 Black Ambition Prize Competition are now open. For more information and to apply, visit About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams in 2020, Black Ambition empowers underrepresented innovators and communities to excel, uninterrupted. To date, Black Ambition has awarded approximately $13M to 131 innovative entrepreneurs. Black Ambition network founders have gone on to raise more than $280M collectively. This endeavor has been recognized by Forbes, Essence, Complex and many more for driving meaningful change. It also was the winner of Fast Company's 2021 World Changing Ideas award for Impact Investing.
