Shaquille O’Neal & American Express Launch $10 Million Coalition To Help Black Businesses Recover From Pandemic

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal Partners With American Express To Launch $10 Million Coalition To Back Black Businesses

Former NBA great, Shaquille O’Neal is showing up for the Black community in a huge way.  The 4x basketball champion recently unveiled a campaign to assist Black businesses recovering due to COVID-19.

Shaquille O’Neal is partnering with American Express on the “Coalition to Back Black Businesses,” which is grant program designed to help Black-owned businesses get back on their feet. Shaq states:

“Small businesses need our support now more than ever.  Black businesses have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.  You tell people, ‘stay in you house four months, don’t leave don’t go out.’ It’s a shame 40 million Americans have lost their jobs, but in these Black communities with Black businesses, a lot of people have lost their lifelong jobs.  I’m happy to support the first ever Coalition of Black Businesses.”

Reportedly, the Coalition launches with a $10 million commitment to fund a grant program over the next four years with a portion of the grant funding leadership development and business mentoring.

Shaq expresses,

“Not only are we giving money, but we give mentorship to help get their businesses to the next level.”

The former Los Angeles Laker and father of six who says, “I want to be something more than just Shaq” has turned a keen eye towards business ventures.

He recently inked a multi-year deal with Turner Sports which will expand his role as a studio basketball analyst for NBA games, with the possibility to be featured in wrestling games as well as Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

“Turner Sports is family to me – and I’m looking forward to working alongside my talented colleagues as we create many more Shaq-tastic moments in the years to come.”

Find out more information on the Coalition partnership, and inquire about eligibility details here.

What are your thoughts on Shaquille’s partnership?  Write your comments below.