NEW YORK—American Express’ #ShopSmall  initiative has taken on new dimensions in this unique year, extending the spotlight on the importance of supporting local small businesses to consumers in a range of categories. Just last month, Amex launched a new podcast, “Built to Last,” a series of conversations with trailblazing Black small business owners. The podcast is hosted by Elaine Welteroth, the former editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue, journalist, producer and New York Times best-selling author. Welteroth said, “I am excited to partner with American Express to shine a light on Black entrepreneurs that are blazing new trails and finding innovative ways to thrive despite unprecedented challenges.”

Among those to be featured in the #AmexBuiltToLast weekly series are eyewear designers and DJs, style leaders Corianna and Brianna Dotson of Coco & Breezy. Each episode will focus on individuals from different fields, who have helped to shape American culture and they will span such sectors as culinary, fashion, lifestyle, home décor, design, beauty and hair care. Along with Coco & Breezy, the roster of guests includes Issa Rae and Hannah Diop of Sienna Naturals, Melissa Butler of The Lip Bar, Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa, Pinky Cole of Atlanta restaurant Slutty Vegan, and Shannon Maldonado of Yowie. All of these entrepreneurs will be featured in the series, which wraps up on Dec. 8.

The series just recently launched on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud, and Stitcher, along with video podcast episodes on the American Express You Tube Channel.

Built to Last is one of the initiatives reflecting American Express’ support of Black-owned businesses Over the next four years, American Express will provide $10 million in grants and training to support Black business owners as they recover from the pandemic. These funds are part of a broader effort to drive meaningful change within the Black community.

American Express recently joined forces with U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to create the Coalition to Black Business with this commitment. The coalition brings together four Black organizations for the first time—the National Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Business League, the U.S. Black Chambers Inc. and Walkers Legacy.

More details about this Coalition are posted here.