Ready for the Future

​​​​​​​​​​​BECOME A MEMBER!

 

Black-owned businesses in the UK have the lowest profitability levels and highest failure rate (British Business Bank; 2024). Research shows that bridging institutional voids is crucial for promoting a more inclusive environment where ethnic and non-ethnic entrepreneurs can succeed (Olarewaju & Tamvada; 2023). Staffordshire Black Business Network (SBBN) is bridging institutional voids in protection and security, politics, education, finance, and formal and informal networks.​

 

We are excited to share the new membership structure for SBBN, designed to better serve our community and support our shared goals. ​Next, you'll find all the key details for the changes and charges that will take effect starting 1st February 2025.​ With this hybrid model, SBBN seeks to ensure financial sustainability while expanding its impact​.

​

Starting from the 1st of February 2025, SBBN will have four classes of members.                                                                      

​1. Full Membership*

• Eligibility: Open to Black business owners who will pay an annual fee of £240 (£190 if paid before the 28th of February 2025).​

 

• Benefits:​

  • Unlock Full Access: Get unlimited access to workshops, training sessions, and premium resources. Gain voting rights in SBBN meetings and elections.

  • Limited Access to the Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce’s Resource Bank: Gain insights and tools from a trusted resource hub to enhance your professional and business activities. Our full members will become partial members of the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce (SCC). This will enable them to benefit from some services of SCC (kindly note that we will need to share relevant information of our full members with SCC).

  • Expand Your Network: Invitations to networking events. We will also hold events at the premises of full members (if they opt for this) to give them more exposure and showcase their commitment to the community.​​

  • Exposure and Visibility:​ Pictures (as opposed to just details) of your business and products can be seen on our public member directory (website). Your business and products can also be spotlighted (on our website and our newsletter) if you opt-in. ​

  • Capacity Development Services:​ SBBN will receive suggestions from full members on the systemic barriers to success that they face and then provide educational sessions to overcome them. Benefit from tailored support and consultation sessions to help you achieve your goals.​ Access to peer and expert mentorship to support your personal and professional development.

  • Priority Opportunities: Receive priority access to collaborative projects and funding opportunities. Join or lead collaborative initiatives supported by SBBN’s network to amplify your impact. Participate in members-only masterclasses, panel discussions, and leadership roundtables.​

  • Group Supervision Space: Participate in "Thriving While Black" sessions to share challenges, celebrate successes, and build resilience in a supportive environment.

  • All Associate Membership Benefits: All benefits of Associate Membership.​

​

* Free Full Membership to individuals under 21 years of age.

​

2. Associate Membership​

• Eligibility: Open to Black business owners who will still receive a limited benefit from membership but without financial barriers. Annual fee is free – Free forever.

​​

• Benefits:​

  • Stay Informed: Receive newsletters packed with updates, resources, and insights.​

  • Expand Your Network: Invitations to bi-monthly events with professionals and peers.​

  • Access Learning Opportunities: Limited access to select workshops and training sessions to boost your skills.​

  • Visibility: Be listed in our public member directory (website).​

 ​

3. Supportive Members

• Eligibility: Open to individuals and organisations that full members and associate members can benefit from who may not identify as Black. These will also pay an annual fee of £240 (£190 if paid before the 28th of February 2025).​

 

• Benefits:​

  • Networking Opportunities: Invitations to networking events to connect with a diverse and dynamic group of professionals.​

  • Support the Mission: Actively contribute to the advancement of SBBN’s goals and values.​

  • Limited Access: Attend select workshops and events focused on allyship and collaboration.​

  • Recognition: Be acknowledged as an ally in our public communications and community initiatives.​

  • Opportunities for Learning: Access resources and training on topics like equity, inclusion, and intersectionality.

 

4. Already SCC Membership​

• Eligibility: Open to Black business owners already part of the Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce. These will pay an annual fee to be determined by the Board of SBBN (kindly contact us).

 

• Benefits:​ All Benefits Accruing to Full Members​

​

​

​​​

Why Join as a Member?​

 

By joining as an SBBN member, you become part of a vibrant network dedicated to growth, empowerment, and impact. Whether you are a Full Member, an Associate Member, a Supportive Member or a SCC Member, your participation strengthens our community and mission.​

 ​

• Full and Already SCC Members unlock exclusive benefits that provide tangible tools and opportunities to grow personally and professionally.​

 

• Supportive Members play a crucial role in supporting and amplifying SBBN’s work as allies and collaborators.​

 

• Associate Members contribute to the mission by staying connected and informed.​

​

Why are the membership fees changing?​

The updated fees reflect our commitment to providing high-quality resources, events, and opportunities that benefit all members. These changes ensure we can continue to grow and support our community effectively. ​

 

Are there group discounts for organisations?​

Yes, organisations enrolling multiple members may qualify for group discounts. Kindly contact us for more details.​

 

 

How do I Sign Up?​

​

• Full Member joining URL: https://forms.office.com/e/W1EzBLwkE3  

​

• Associate Member joining URL: https://forms.office.com/e/P8vdqavxDz  

​

• Supportive Member joining URL: https://forms.office.com/e/QkDJq78EnK  

​

• SCC Member joining URL: https://forms.office.com/e/Bk6Fc8UfpM  

​

 

References:

 

British Business Bank. (2024). Press release - 20 October, 2020 | British Business Bank. [online] Available at: https://www.british-business-bank.co.uk/news-and-events/news/entreprenuers-from-ethnic-minority-backgrounds-experience-substantially-worse-business-outcomes-than-white-entreprenuers.

​

Olarewaju, T., & Tamvada, P. (2023). How Ethnic Minority SME Owners in the UK can Create Value Amid Informal Institutional Voids. Journal of Creating Value, 9(1), 107-123.