Channel 4, in partnership with Lloyds, has announced the nine businesses shortlisted for Black in Business 2026. Following a competitive application process, nine businesses have been shortlisted from applications received from across the UK. Four winners will each receive £200,000 worth of free advertising airtime on Channel 4.

The winning entrepreneurs will also benefit from the production of a bespoke television advert, alongside six months of tailored marketing support and business mentorship led by Lloyds, helping them unlock new opportunities and accelerate their long-term growth.

First launched in 2023, and now in its third year, Black in Business provides Black entrepreneurs with a platform to accelerate business growth through the power of television advertising. The initiative continues to evolve and expand, with a strong focus on championing Black representation both on and off screen across the television and media industry.

The nine businesses in the final shortlist for Black in Business 2026 are:

• Borough 22: a London-based bakery producing award-winning gluten-free and plant-based doughnuts and sweet treats, with a focus on inclusive indulgence for people with diverse dietary needs.
• Nala’s baby: a family founded skincare and haircare brand providing natural, scientifically developed products designed for babies and children from newborn through childhood.
• SHYNE: a grooming brand creating premium hair and skincare products specifically designed for men with textured hair.
• The Motherhood Group:  A London-based community-driven organisation providing in-person and digital support services for Black mothers and mothers-to-be.
• Tilz Collection: a Yorkshire-based food and drink company selling gifting products and speciality food items through wholesale and online retail channels.
• FlickFirst: a courier and logistics company providing same day and scheduled delivery services for businesses and individuals, with real time tracking and flexible collection and drop-off options.
• All In A Box: a Buckinghamshire-based catering and events company providing premium food experiences, including nationwide meal delivery kits, corporate catering, private events, gifting and brand partnerships.
• RKY Careers: a London-based career development and training company supporting international students and professionals with employability services, tech bootcamps and access to UK job opportunities, including visa sponsorship roles
• SOUL CAP: a London-based brand providing inclusive swimwear products which provide options for people with longer, voluminous hair.

Sam Hicks, Head of Advertiser Strategy, Channel 4 Sales commented: “In its third iteration, Black in Business continues to attract an exceptional standard of entries. The vision, ambition and resilience shown by the selected businesses is inspiring, and we look forward to choosing this year’s four winners, who will benefit from a package designed to accelerate their growth through the power TV advertising. Each year, the calibre of applications grows stronger, reflecting the innovation and strength of Black entrepreneurs across the UK. We are proud that the initiative continues to provide ambitious businesses with the platform, support and visibility they need to reach their full potential.”

Amanda Murphy, CEO Lloyds Business & Commercial Banking, added: “Entrepreneurs are at the heart of economic growth, driving innovation, and creating jobs. Everyone with the ambition to start and grow a business should have access to the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Black in Business plays a vital role in helping to tackle some of the specific challenges that Black entrepreneurs can face. The quality of this year’s shortlisted businesses is truly impressive, reflecting the passion, resilience and ambition that exists across the UK’s Black business community. The programme was created to help close the gap in access to support and opportunity, and the calibre of applications we’ve seen this year demonstrates why that mission remains so important. I’m excited to see what this year’s winners achieve next and look forward to supporting them as they continue to grow and thrive.”

The final four winners are expected to be decided later this month with their bespoke ads set to air in 2027.

Previous winners include Nylah’s Naturals (2024), Flake Bake (2024), The Gym Kitchen (2023) and The Turmeric Co (2023), all of which have benefited from increased exposure, stronger brand recognition and significant business growth following their participation in the programme.

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Categories: Press Releases

Tags: Black, Channel 4, Media