Detroit Pistons & Amazon Boost Entrepreneurship with Shop 313 Initiative

The Detroit Pistons, in collaboration with Amazon, are organizing a special summit for 100 pre-selected entrepreneurs, sellers, and founders under their Shop 313 initiative. This article explores the program’s objectives, partnerships, success, and impact on local businesses.

Shop 313: Supporting Detroit’s Entrepreneurs

Established in partnership with Shopify in 2021, Shop 313 aims to promote Detroit’s local entrepreneurs by offering them educational resources, programs, grant opportunities, and networking events. The program has already proven its success by securing the NBA’s Partnership of the Year Award in its inaugural year.

Partnerships

Amazon: A Valuable Collaboration

Amazon supports the Shop 313 initiative, contributing to its success. The collaboration provides small businesses with valuable knowledge and opportunities to strengthen partnerships, enhance brand marketing tactics, and expand their reach.

RingCentral and BELFOR Property Restoration: Additional Support

RingCentral and BELFOR Property Restoration are also proud supporters of Shop 313. RingCentral offers business communication resources, $60,000 in grants, and free MVP subscriptions to selected businesses. BELFOR Property Restoration joins the initiative to provide further assistance.

Shop 313’s Impact

With the dedication of Shop 313 and support from partners like RingCentral, Amazon, and BELFOR Property Restoration, the current season’s initiative is expected to make an even greater impact. RingCentral aims to provide six $10,000 grants to Michigan businesses, chosen through a fan voting process during a Pistons game.

Success Stories

Good Cakes and Bakes, located in Detroit’s historic Avenue of Fashion district, is one of the many local businesses benefiting from the Shop 313 program. The owner, April Anderson, credits the initiative for boosting her business’s visibility, leading to participation in various events and features, including Pride Month.

Requirements and Application Process

To participate in the Shop 313 platform, businesses and entrepreneurs must operate within the Detroit area, be independent and non-franchise entities, and officially incorporated. They can apply through the Pistons Shop 313 process, ensuring their eligibility for the program.

Testimonials

Ritu Khanna, Managing Director of Shopify for the U.S. East region, expressed her pride in collaborating with the Detroit Pistons to support the city’s entrepreneurs. Mike Zavodsky, the Pistons’ Chief Business Officer, emphasized the joint dedication of the Pistons and Shopify in advocating for and assisting small businesses.

Conclusion

The Shop 313 initiative by the Detroit Pistons plays a significant role in developing local entrepreneurship and expanding the city’s small business environment. Through partnerships with companies like Amazon, Shopify, RingCentral, and BELFOR Property Restoration, the program provides essential resources, opportunities, and visibility for small businesses in Detroit. This ensures their sustained prosperity and contributes to the growth of the local economy.