Fifteen Percent Pledge launches database to connect brands and retailers

Aurora James’ 15 Percent Pledge has created a database of Black-owned brands backed by Google. The database includes more than 1200 businesses to help connect them with retailers who have signed the organization’s pledge committing to stocking at least 15 percent of their shelf space with Black-owned brands. The news was reported by Business of Fashion.

Google has agreed to back the project for two years and will offering digital trainings and workshops to the founders, along with market support. The 15 Percent Pledge was launched in 2020 in the wake of the George Floyd protests to urge retailers to diversify their store buys with Black-owned brands.

The organization now counts major retailers in their project including Macys, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, and Sephora. Nordstrom announced a 10-year partnership with the organization earlier this year.