The Philadelphia 76ers are now accepting applications for the third year of the team’s “Buy Black” program, which creates customized marketing plans for participants that include free advertising across the Sixers’ social and digital platforms.
The deadline for businesses to apply is Feb. 21. Information about the program is available here.
Since its inception in 2021, the Buy Black program has received more than 600 applications from local Black-owned businesses.
One of last season’s winners, the streetwear clothing brand Spergo and its then 15-year-old CEO Trey Brown, subsequently landed a $300,000 investment — for a 20% stake in the company — from FUBU founder and CEO Daymond John on the ABC hit show “Shark Tank.”
Other past program winners were Thunder Mug Cafe in East Falls and Girls Contracting Inc., a women-led commercial and residential construction company based in Grays Ferry.
“Over the past few years, we’ve made a concerted effort to create programs that amplify diverse Philadelphia businesses, and this year’s Buy Black program is a prime example of that continuing commitment,” said David Gould, the 76ers chief diversity and impact officer.
For this year’s program, the Sixers will work with Eastside Golf, a Black-owned sports apparel company, and wealth management firm Zenith Wealth Partners. The two companies will help select the winner, and provide it with mentorship and networking opportunities.
“We are a sports brand rooted in golf, but our missions align when it comes to building and supporting the Black community,” said Earl Cooper, co-founder of Detroit-based Eastside Golf.
Jason Ray, founder and investment director at Philadelphia-based Zenith Wealth Partners, said the partnership provides his firm with an opportunity to showcase its value to Black founders and entrepreneurs.
“Our firm wins when Black business wins,” Ray said.
