Dream Exchange & NBCC
Program Brief / Short Summary The Dream Exchange & NBCC Entrepreneurship Award is a distinguished $25,000 annual grant recognizing exceptional Disadvantaged Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs) that demonstrate bold innovation, sustainable growth, and a transformative commitment to community advancement. Jointly presented by the Dream Exchange and the National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), this award honors trailblazing entrepreneurs during the historic 125th National Black Business Conference.
- $25,000 Grant – Catalyzing growth for a standout disadvantaged business.
- Community-Centered Impact – Recognizing leaders advancing underserved communities.
- Business Growth Recognition – Celebrating resilience, traction, and enterprise leadership.
- National Visibility – Spotlighted at the 125th National Black Business Conference.
- Strategic Media Promotion – Digital campaigns, corporate sponsors & live events.
- Path to $1M Multi-Tiered Support – Be part of a broader entrepreneurial equity movement.
The Dream Exchange & NBCC Entrepreneurship Award is more than a grant—it is a national call to recognize and uplift the business pioneers shaping the future of economic equity. Designed for disadvantaged small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs), this $25,000 annual award honors founders and teams that demonstrate outstanding innovation, resilience, and measurable impact in their communities.
Launched through a visionary partnership between Dream Exchange and the National Black Chamber of Commerce, this award will be presented during the National Black Business Conference, a milestone celebration of the 125th anniversary of the National Business League.
Finalists are selected through a highly competitive process, evaluated on business performance, community engagement, leadership, and long-term vision. Awardees benefit not only from financial support but also national exposure through a robust media strategy, digital storytelling, and access to influential networks.
This initiative also signals the start of a bold movement—plans are underway to expand into a $1 million multi-tiered program, supporting diverse startups and scale-ups across the country. Whether you're a founder with a purpose, a changemaker in your field, or a bold business leader ready to scale, this award is designed to elevate your mission and amplify your impact.
Applications are now open.
Register for the Award Event
For questions, contact:
Jane Hayton | [email protected]
The award is open to Disadvantaged Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs), especially those owned by underrepresented entrepreneurs with demonstrated community impact and business growth.
Applicants undergo a multi-phase review process, including evaluation of their business model, leadership, social impact, and scalability. Finalists may be invited for interviews or presentations.
While the current award offers a $25,000 grant, Dream Exchange and NBCC are developing a larger $1 million multi-tiered initiative with additional funding and support for selected businesses.
High-growth or mission-driven SMBs that showcase innovation, measurable results, and a strong commitment to community transformation are highly encouraged to apply.
Winners will be celebrated at the National Black Business Conference and featured in a nationwide media campaign, with opportunities for networking, promotion, and future funding visibility.