CitizenM has announced the launch of its inaugural Founders First programme, a new initiative designed to support the growth of small businesses, with a particular focus on underrepresented communities. The programme particularly aims to support LGBTIQA+ founders, who are known to receive 16% less funding in the US compared with the average founder, despite being responsible for the creation of 36% more jobs, 114% more patents and 44% more exits.
Founders First will offer LGBTIQA+ founders the chance to secure visibility across its global channels through campaign content, consultations with CitizenM’s expert procurement team, as well as £5,000 to facilitate their brand vision.
They will also receive a two-year mycitizenM+ membership for themselves and their teams of up to 10 pax, which includes access to free co-working at any of CitizenM’s 34 hotels worldwide, and a chance to showcase their product or service in its flagship hotels in either New York City or London.
To launch the program, CitizenM is hosting an open call on socials where founders are invited to submit by sharing their brand vision “in a way that feels right to them”, whether that is through a pitch deck, a video, or any other format. One US and one UK founder will be chosen to join the program.
Robin Chadha, CitizenM’s chief brand officer, said: “At citizenM, we celebrate individuality, creative expression and freedom every day. As a brand built for entrepreneurs and creators, we recognize the LGBTIQA+ community’s underrepresentation in the founder space.
“That is why we’re thrilled to launch our inaugural Founders First program, designed to provide the community with opportunities to grow, network and feel a sense of belonging with citizenM. As a brand, we hope to serve as a hub for inspiration and growth, so we’re excited to support our new founders.”