Xero Announces Return of Beautiful Business Fund for 2024, Offering Over NZ$750,000 in Funding
Xero the global small business platform, has announced the return of the XBB Fund for 2024. This initiative will provide over NZ$750,000 in funding to support the growth plans of small businesses and non-profits, fostering their future success.
Entries for the Xero Beautiful Business Fund are now open to Xero small business customers in Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The entry period will close on August 27, 2024, NZT.
Eligible Xero small business customers must complete an online form and submit a 90-second pitch video for the categories they wish to enter:
Innovating for Environmental Sustainability: For businesses aiming to minimize their environmental impact or develop sustainable products/services.
Trailblazing with Technology: For forward-thinking businesses looking to innovate with new technologies.
Strengthening Community Connection: For businesses dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.
Upskilling for the Future: For businesses addressing skills gaps through training and professional development.
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, the company CEO, stated: “We’re thrilled to offer the Beautiful Business Fund again in 2024. Hearing first-hand from our small business customers about their ideas and aspirations was a rewarding experience that highlighted the resilience, drive, and determination required to be a business owner. This fund reflects our purpose of making life better for small businesses, their advisors, and communities worldwide.”
First launched on July 6, 2023, to coincide with Xero Day, the company’s anniversary, the Xero Beautiful Business Fund celebrates Xero’s 18th anniversary this year by supporting small businesses in achieving their dreams.
The 2023 winners from Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and the UK included a diverse range of businesses, such as a charity addressing childhood poverty, a food buying club, and a lighting design company. Layla Sargent, Founder & CEO of The Seam, a 2023 global winner, remarked: “The Xero Beautiful Business Fund has provided strategic support that allowed us to develop and share more training programs, which is invaluable for the growth of our business.”
The total prize pool of over NZ$750,000 will be shared among 28 winners, with each local category winner receiving NZ$20,000. Four global winners will receive an additional NZ$50,000 each. Full entry criteria, details, and profiles of the 2023 winners are available on Xero’s website. Entries close on August 27, 2024, NZT, and winners will be announced at the end of October 2024.
