Do you have what it takes to join 

Black Business Matters

COHORT 7?

 The New York Urban League is raising the bar on the

Black Business Matters Business Plan Intensive.  

We are looking for 25 people who personify New York grit and are ready to turn the meaning of entrepreneurship on its head. 

Join Us for Orientation to Learn More

In the meantime, take note:

All applicants must attend orientation. If you cannot participate on August 3, 2026, please email gramcharan@nyul.org. 

Selected applicants will present to a jury of business professionals for the final cohort selection.

If accepted, more than 2 absences or missed appointments will disqualify participants from eligibility for prizes. 

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Business Model Solves A Problem
• Black Owned (majority ownership)
• Commitment to Launching or Growing a Business
• Company Principal Must Live in Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, Queens, or Brooklyn

Important Dates:

       Orientation Date:  Monday, August 03, 2026, 6:30 PM Virtual

      Application Deadline - August 21, 2026

            Jury Presentations by Invitation - Late August

            Final Candidate Notification - Early September

            BBM Intensive -Monday, September 21, 2026 - Monday, December 7, 2026

            Closing Ceremony - December 14, 2026

 

Why you should apply for the Black Business Matters Business Plan Intensive

• Entrepreneurs who create business plans are 260% more likely to start their ventures.

• Having a business plan boosts the likelihood of business growth by 30%.

•  About 70% of businesses that remain operational for five years have a strategic business plan in place.

• 71% of rapidly expanding companies utilize a business plan.

• Businesses with a written plan have a 7% higher chance of achieving significant growth compared to those without one.

•  One study revealed that only 35% of surveyed business owners had completed a business plan.

• Essentially, those who finish their business plans are twice as likely to succeed.

The Black Business Matters business plan journey is intensive and not for hobbyists but for emerging entrepreneurs dedicated to doing the work it takes to build a solid organization.

The program includes twelve weekly Virtual three-hour sessions with an instructor. In session, we cover a plan topic and homework, and we hear from a guest expert to discuss the weekly subject matter. Open discussion is encouraged among participants. Additionally, each participant receives 1-1 credits to meet with the instructor for more focused instruction and access to a software license to write the plan and financials. Lastly, in-person study group sessions are available for those who want to delve into marketing and finance topics.

At the program's close, all completed business plans will be reviewed, and a winner will be selected for prizes.

    

BBM Application Deadline - Friday, August 21, 2026

Application Link Provided Separately