Nike Communications

Black Acceleration Initiative 2026

At Nike Communications, we believe progress in our industry begins with access and equity. We recognize the systemic barriers that Black entrepreneurs continue to face and are committed to leveling the playing field by expanding access, resources, and visibility for their brands. This commitment inspired the Black Acceleration Initiative, a program that helps propel the next generation of influential Black-owned businesses and amplify their impact across industries.

Through the Nike Communications Black Acceleration Initiative eligible companies will join a cohort participating in a series of workshops that provide:

  • Personalized mentorship from Nike Communications professionals
  • Guidance on refining brand storytelling to clarify and elevate their narrative
  • Strategic PR insights to increase visibility and reach the right audiences
  • Actionable tools and strategies to support business growth

Timing

The cohort will be selected in April 2026, and the five-week program will start in May 2026.

Week 1

Cohort Workshops

Week 2 & 3

Cohort participants finalize their strategy

Week 4

Cohort participants submit strategy to assigned team

Week 5

Team gives final feedback for executing strategy

Eligibility

To be eligible for Nike Communications Black Acceleration Initiative, you and your business must meet all the following criteria:

  • You are eighteen (18) years of age or older as of the date the application is submitted
  • You identify as Black, African, African American, Afro-Latino and/or Afro-Caribbean
  • You are an owner of the business
  • At least 51% of the business must be owned, controlled, or operated and managed by Black owners
  • Business must be based in the United States and incorporated as a legal entity under the laws of any state within the United States; and
  • Growth Stage Business: Your business has been operating for at least 5 years, has a solid customer base and at least 10 full-time employees and/or has raised at least $500K in funding to support the launch of your business

Nike Communications will determine, at its sole discretion, whether an applicant meets the eligibility criteria to participate in the pro bono program or to qualify for a particular category. Agency may, at its discretion, reclassify an applicant to a different category if applicable. Agency’s decisions regarding eligibility are final and binding.

How Recipients Are Determined

Members of Nike Communications’ BAI Committee will review eligible applications and evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

Your Business: How your business is currently operating and positioned for growth.

Your Plan: Your goals for scaling and how the program’s workshops and mentorship will help you get there.

Your Engagement: Your capacity and commitment to actively participate throughout the program.

To Apply

The application for the 2026 program is now live. Click here to submit your application.

Questions

Should you have any questions about the Nike Communications Black Acceleration Initiative, please reach out to blackacceleration@nikecomm.com