“Building Better Futures” program to support HBCU students through grant funding as they transition to careers and bolster UNCF’s K-12 Initiative to help students prepare for college

American Express announced a $2 million pledge from the American Express Foundation to UNCF (United Negro College Fund) to help advance opportunities for students in underrepresented communities. Over the next three years, UNCF will use the funding to award 300 “Building Better Futures” grants of $5,000 each to students in their senior year at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). These grants will support students as they look to transition into the next phase of their careers after graduation.

“As a graduate of Dillard University, an HBCU in New Orleans, I know the impact this donation will have in creating a better future for students, families and communities,” said Glenda McNeal, President, Enterprise Strategic Partnerships, American Express. “Our program with UNCF provides grant recipients the flexibility to use the funds in ways that will be truly helpful to them after they graduate – whether it’s helping with the costs of job relocation, a down-payment on a car or more financial stability when moving onto the next exciting chapter in their lives.”

“We’re excited to team up with American Express as we take this journey together to ensure more underserved students, both those attending HBCUs already and K-12 students, are prepared to navigate high school and college leading to early career success,” said Sekou Biddle, Vice President, Advocacy and Student Professional Development Programs, UNCF. “This important initiative is consistent with UNCF’s longstanding tradition of working with corporate partners to support HBCUs and K-12 programs as they prepare students for opportunities in the 21st century workplace.”

See related article: American Express and the Coalition to Back Black Businesses Open Applications for 2022-23 Grant Program

Funding from the American Express Foundation will also support UNCF’s existing K-12 Initiative program, which promotes college readiness by educating and empowering parents, community leaders and students across the nation.

Additionally, American Express is providing current HBCU students and recent alums access to apply for job and internship opportunities at the company. American Express and UNCF have also come together to host webinars, recruiting events and a digital marketing campaign to help inform HBCU students and alumni about internship and full-time job openings at American Express. Internships and full-time roles that HBCU students are eligible to apply for range from finance, product development, technology and more.

These efforts are part of the many ways American Express is delivering on its priorities to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as build financial confidence in the communities it serves.

Source: American Express