Announcing Clearco’s Black History Month Award for Brands: The latest contest Clearco is running to recognize and celebrate outstanding ecommerce brands and businesses that are shaping digital commerce's future. Following the success of Clearco's 2024 Top Ecommerce Awards, we're launching this award program with a $1,000.00 (USD) prize for the winner. Throughout the year, we will launch additional contests to highlight more amazing founders.

Read more to learn about the award criteria, eligibility requirements, and how to submit your brand for consideration to Clearco's 2025 Black History Month Award for Ecommerce Founders. Apply for the award today!

Recognizing high growth Black-owned businesses and brands

Black-owned businesses play a vital role in the US economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities. The US Census Bureau reports more than 3.6 million Black-owned businesses in the US, a significant jump from pre-COVID levels when the number of businesses was under 200,000 in 2019. These businesses have generated $217 billion in revenue and support more than 3.56 million jobs across the US.

Ongoing challenges in accessing capital and resources is a number one concern. Through this award, Clearco aims to spotlight growing brands while providing tangible support and recognition to Black-owned ecommerce businesses.

What makes an award-winning ecommerce brand?

The winning brand will demonstrate outstanding achievement in:

Social Impact 

Is your brand making a difference? Tell us how you're giving back to your community, embodying your values, and creating positive change through your business. Successful businesses generate more than profits—they strengthen communities and create lasting positive impact. 

Social impact can take many forms in successful businesses, from creating employment opportunities in underserved areas to implementing sustainable practices and eco-friendly initiatives. Many award-worthy brands support education through scholarship programs or mentorship, while others partner with local organizations for community development projects. Some companies demonstrate their commitment by dedicating a portion of their profits to charitable causes, creating a direct pipeline from business success to community benefit.

Brand Innovation 

Show us what makes your brand standout. We want to see beautiful visuals, thoughtful packaging, a meaningful mission - anything that highlights what is exceptional about your company's brand. Strong brands tell compelling stories that connect authentically with their customers and stand out in the digital space.

Product Excellence and Innovation

What makes your product extraordinary? Share your story—from why you run a company around this product to how you designed it and to the care and quality you put into each component. The products we select solve specific problems and make a measurable impact on customers. The winning products will show proof of success through customer feedback, sales data, media coverage, and industry recognition. 

Digital Presence 

Showcase how you win in the digital space through your storefront design, customer engagement, and social media strategy. 

How Clearco supports ecommerce brands and their capital access

The Black History Month Award aligns with Clearco's broader mission of democratizing access to working capital for ecommerce entrepreneurs. With over $2.5 billion invested across 10,000 businesses, Clearco has established itself as a key partner in supporting ecommerce brands, providing the resources and support they need to grow and succeed.

Apply for Clearco's 2025 Black History Month Award for Ecommerce Founders 

Eligibility 

Eligible brands must be US-based ecommerce with at least one founder who self-identifies as Black. To qualify, your brand must be established for at least one (1) year and generate a minimum monthly revenue of $10,000.00.

Application Process 

The streamlined application process lets you showcase what makes your brand unique:

• Apply through our website
• Tell us your founder story
• Share your brand's mission and impact
• Highlight your product innovation
• Demonstrate your digital presence and customer engagement

Timeline

• Applications open: January 2025
• Submission deadline: February 24th, 2025 at 11:59PM ET
• Winner announcement: The winner will be contacted at the end of February. The announcement on our channels will follow, likely early March 2025.

Prize for Winning Clearco’s Black History Month Award

Beyond the cash prize, the spotlight and networking opportunities can help create lasting connections within the ecommerce community.

The winning brand will receive:

• $1,000.00 USD cash prize
• Recognition from Clearco
• Featured blog post on our platform

Terms and Conditions of the Contest

Before submitting your application, please review these key requirements:

• No purchase is necessary to enter
• One (1) entry per brand
• Must meet all eligibility requirements
• By applying, you agree to Clearco's Competition Terms and Privacy Policy

Join Clearco in Celebrating Black-Owned Businesses in Ecommerce

Submit an application for your business or nominate an outstanding brand until February 24th, 2025 at 11:59PM ET. Whether you're just starting out or ready to apply, we're here to celebrate the innovation and creativity driving the future of digital commerce.