RIDC's RUN THE BLOCK Pilot Program Draws Over 100 Applications to Boost Black Ownership in Running Retail

The Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC) is thrilled to announce that we have received over 100 submissions for our inaugural RUN THE BLOCK program. This is an amazing response for a first-of-its-kind initiative to increase Black ownership in the running industry.

RUN THE BLOCK has attracted applicants from all corners of the United States, highlighting its broad national appeal to current and future Black retail business owners. Leading the pack, we have New York (11), California (10), Texas and Illinois (9 each), Georgia (8), and Maryland (7). North Carolina also shows strong interest with (7), followed by New Jersey (6) and Tennessee (5). We're excited to see submissions from Florida, Ohio, and Michigan (4 each), Alabama (3), and Louisiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Virginia, and Washington (2 each). We also have applications from Colorado, New Mexico, the District of Columbia, Rhode Island, Iowa, Utah, and Wisconsin (1 each).

This incredible geographic stretch demonstrates the extensive reach and widespread interest in RUN THE BLOCK, underscoring the program's potential for significant impact and growth. It will be challenging to narrow it down to one winner this year, but our teams—comprised of retail owners, investors, small business advisors, brand leaders, and others—are ready for the challenge.

With such an incredible response, it's clear we need to invest in and grow this program even more. Will you join us? To donate to the future of this program, please email runtheblock@runningdiversity.com. Keep following along, and stay tuned for an announcement of the top winner this fall!

-The RIDC Team

P.S. A special thank you to Brooks Running for their major support in this pilot program and to Strava, Charm City Run, and Playmakers for their contributions as well.

P.P.S. Did you see RUN THE BLOCK featured in ESSENCE?