Press Release: The Running Industry Diversity Coalition Launches First Ever “RUN THE BLOCK” Pilot Program To Expand Ownership in the Running Industry
The awardee will be granted $200,000 to open a new retail running store and dedicated mentorship to support them along the way.
(Seattle, WA), March 11, 2024—The Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to unite the running industry to improve the inclusion, visibility, and access for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), launched its newest initiative, “RUN THE BLOCK,” a mentoring and grant program focused on expanding ownership in the running industry.
Anyone can apply with their store having at least 51% Black ownership. This criteria aims to increase access to financial support and mentorship for businesses substantially owned and run by Black individuals, addressing historical barriers to access capital.
The selected entrepreneur will be granted $200,000, thanks to the support from Brooks Running and others and mentorship from running industry leaders to facilitate the opening of a run specialty store.
“Run the Block is starting a new chapter in the running industry, focusing on long-term business success and generational wealth for the communities we serve,” said Kiera Smalls, Executive Director of the RIDC. “It’s more than just a mentoring and grant program; it’s about leveling the ownership playing field.”
“When Brooks first joined the RIDC, we were most excited about the opportunity for brands and retailers to come together to support necessary change in the running industry. We jumped at the chance to back RIDC’s ‘Run the Block’ pilot program because we saw it as a powerful way for Brooks and other industry leaders to help increase diversity in run,” said Dan Sheridan, Brooks President and COO. “Together with our partners and allies, we aim to provide Run the Block beneficiaries our expertise and experience to help them succeed and thrive.”
The RIDC will be accepting applications for “RUN THE BLOCK” from March 11 to May 15, 2024. To learn more and apply for the grant program, please visit runningdiversity.com/runtheblock.
Please direct media inquiries to OutsidePR, RIDC@OutsidePR.com
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About RIDC The Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded in October 2020 as an educational organization with a mission that extends beyond running. Dedicated to championing transformative change within the sport, the RIDC partners with brands, race events, retailers, and run clubs to ignite unparalleled advancements for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color in the running industry.
