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We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Xero Beautiful Business Fund for 2024. With a prize pool of over NZ$750,000, the Xero Beautiful Business Fund is back to support small businesses and non-profits in seven countries with their growth plans and help drive future success.
Small businesses are driven by dedicated and passionate individuals who work hard to contribute to their communities and their local economies. The Xero Beautiful Business Fund is one way that we can provide meaningful support to our small business customers so they can fulfill their dreams or take the next big step with confidence.
How to enter
Entries for the Xero Beautiful Business Fund are officially open to Xero small business customers in Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States.
Entrants need to complete an online form, and submit a 90-second video at the competition website, pitching their plans for the funding and their business goals. Entrants can apply for as many categories as they like (see below). The entry period closes on 27 August 2024 at 5pm NZT.
What’s up for grabs
The total prize pool of more than NZ$750,000 will be shared among 28 winners. Four winners from each country (one in each category) will be determined by local judging panels, and each will receive NZ$20,000. Four of the country winners will then be selected as global winners by a global judging panel and each will receive an additional NZ$50,000.
Entry categories
We recognise that every small business is unique, with their own set of challenges and opportunities. That’s why the Xero Beautiful Business Fund offers four funding categories. Here are the details of each, as well as the submitted pitch videos of the 2023 global winners for some inspiration:
Innovating for environmental sustainability
For a small business or non-profit that wants to take the next step in their environmental sustainability journey by minimising their own environmental impact, enhancing the sustainability of current products or services, or developing new environmentally friendly products or services.
Trailblazing with technology
For a small business or non profit that has a future-focus mindset and is seeking to innovate. These organisations want to set the pace and lead the charge using new and emerging technologies.
Strengthening community connection
For a small business or non-profit that has a mission or purpose rooted in serving their communities and making a positive impact. It could be to make a difference in the community they serve, support underserved or marginalised groups, or contribute to social good through innovative ideas or solutions.
Upskilling for the future
For a small business or non-profit that wants to overcome a skills gap, either through upskilling themselves or their employees. These organisations see a path forward with greater access to training and professional development.
Join us in celebrating small businesses
The Xero Beautiful Business Fund is more than just a financial award; it’s a testament to the incredible work that small businesses do every day. We launched the Xero Beautiful Business Fund last year on 6 July 2023 to coincide with Xero Day, which is the anniversary of Xero becoming a registered company. With Xero marking its 18th anniversary this year, the Xero Beautiful Business Fund serves as a way to celebrate small businesses and help them achieve their dreams.
We’re proud to support our customers on their journey, and we can’t wait to see the amazing things they achieve. Stay tuned for more information on the Xero Beautiful Business Fund. Over the coming weeks we’ll be sharing stories from last years’ winners right here on the Xero blog.
For full entry criteria, details on how to apply and 2023 winner profiles, please visit the Xero Beautiful Business Fund web page. Submissions close on 27 August 2024 at 5pm NZT and winners will be announced at the end of October 2024.
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