backing black business
200 years proud, Wray & Nephew sits at the heart of the African - Caribbean community, representing a unique, cross-generational icon within Black British culture. From suitcases on HMS Windrush as a taste and nostalgic memory of ‘home’, our beloved spirit has trickled into living rooms, dancehalls, community centres and bars - creating lifelong memories. Community is who we are and why we are here, and it’s time to give back.
We’ve been hard at work behind the scenes, and we are incredibly proud to launch Wray Forward, a multi-year commitment to nurture 300+ community businesses.
A programme for change
Wray Forward is a free programme built to change and support the foundations of our community. We aim to support our entrepreneurial community by improving access, promoting Black ownership in music and facilitating growth.
It takes a village. So we've brought in the best of the best.
We’re proud to partner with Foundervine - a social enterprise and accelerator for Black businesses and entrepreneurs - with the support of 40+ industry partners.
Together, we will champion the forward movement of Black businesses all over the UK.
WHAT’s happening in the community
86% of people In the music industry, say they have faced barriers to their career due to race (source: Black Lives in Music Report 2020).
Furthermore, Black entrepreneurs are still being held back with limited access to financial support, education and opportunities (source: British Business Bank).
WHAT’s happening in the community
We are committed to supporting the growth of community businesses and the enterprises behind the artists we know and love.
Our programme is one that:
Makes an impact
Is inclusive
Showcases pride
Celebrates our community
Big or small, new or old, all businesses are welcome.
What we're doing
What we're doing
Together with Foundervine, we’ve created two FREE bespoke programmes - both by and for our community
COMMUNITY BUSINESS PROGRAMME:
This is a monthly programme of workshops aimed at community businesses. This is for you to scale up your business, expand your network and discover new opportunities.
Sign up here for workshops.
Time commitment: 1x 2 hour masterclasses, evenings (Virtual)
At a glance, you'll get:
Training: from resilience to long-term sustainability and business growth
Masterclasses: learn how to build your online brand, develop a business idea and more
Exclusive coaching sessions: group session with a professional business coach
Music Business Accelerator:
This is a 3-month programme helping Black business owners in music. This is for you to scale up your business, increase your visibility and pitch your business idea to investors.
Start date: 3rd August 2022
Time commitment: Weekly 2hr masterclasses, evenings (Virtual)
At a glance, you'll get:
Networking opportunities: with industry professionals and talent
Mentoring: from the best in the business
Pitch Day: Opportunity to pitch your business idea to a room of investors
With access to industry professionals such as Speech Debelle, Alex Boateng, Shauni Caballero, and Felix Howard - to name a few - you will sit in on engaging workshops and regular talks from industry experts to keep the good vibes rolling
Who we are looking for
Who we are looking for
Community Criteria
High street store owners
Online businesses
Tech Companies
Consultants
Fashion Designers
Food & Beverage
Hairdressers/stylists
Health and beauty products
Home & Lifestyle
Restaurants / bars
Music Criteria
Media
Publishing/labels
Creative agencies
Live events
What youwill gain
Whatyou will gain
Community
Business knowledge and advice
Access to tailored resources
Access to virtual community and peer support
Continuous coaching support
Opportunity to showcase your business
Music
Mentoring
Access to tailored resources
Access to virtual community and peer support
Opportunity to showcase your business
*Pitch Day to Investors
*Pitch Video
*Once you have been given a space on the programme you will need to apply for the Pitch day opportunity
What ourcommunitysays
