Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a cost to apply?
+A: Absolutely nothing! This program is completely free for selected businesses.
Q: What kind of businesses are eligible?
+A: Any minority-led eCommerce businesses in operational for over 2 years and have $2M+ annual revenue can apply. The program benefits businesses that are unable to realize their full potential because of process, operational, and technology challenges.
Q: How will this program help my business?
+A: You’ll receive expert consulting to streamline your operations, a promotional bundle from Shopify and its ecosystem partners, and a tailored technology roadmap—all designed to set you on a path to success.
Q: What is the package worth?
+A: The total package is worth over $30,000. This include 100 hours of strategy, operations, marketing and technology consulting worth over $25,000 and a promotional technolgy bundle over $5,000.
Q: What is the application process?
+- Apply online with the required evidence of minority-led or co-ownership, duration of business and revenue.
- Submit a 2-3 min video pitching about the potential of your business and current constraints that are barriers.
Q: How long does the selection process take?
+A: The selection process will take about five weeks from submission to final decision. We encourage applicants to apply early and ensure all required information is provided for timely processing.
Q: Can businesses from any industry apply for the program?
+A: We focus on supporting minority-led businesses in diverse sectors, except for those listed in our exclusions, such as fast fashion, tobacco, vaping, cannabis, alcohol, gambling, predatory lending, and weapons or related are ineligible.
Q: What criteria are used in selecting the winning businesses?
+A: Selection is based on several factors, including the uniqueness of the business, growth potential, and the impact our program can have on the business’s success.
Q: Will our business information be shared with other entities besides the technology partners?
+A: Apart from sharing names and email addresses with our technology partners, all other business information is kept confidential and is only used internally for program evaluation purposes.
Q: Are there any obligations for the businesses selected for the Empowerment Drive?
+A: Selected businesses are expected to engage actively with our consultants and utilize the provided resources. They may also be featured in our marketing materials and success stories.
Q: How will the technology bundle be tailored to our business needs?
+A: The technology bundle is customized based on your business’s requirements and challenges, ensuring you receive tools and solutions that best support your growth. However, the technology package is limited to the participating partners.
Q: Is there a follow-up or support after the program completion?
+A: Yes, we would love to continue our support and build a relationship with you as your ecommerce engineering partner, but this is outside the scope of this program.
Q: Can businesses reapply if they are not selected?
+A: We hope to continue to build on this program every year. Businesses not selected in a given year are welcome to reapply in subsequent years, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Q: What are the expectations regarding the use of the $30,000 value package?
+A: The package is intended to be used for consulting services and technology implementation. Detailed guidelines will be provided to the selected businesses.
Q: How is the program's success measured for participating businesses?
+A: Success is measured through various metrics, including operational efficiency, revenue growth, and the successful integration of technology solutions.