Small-business platform Xero has announced the return of the Xero Beautiful Business Fund for 2024, an initiative that will provide AUD$700,000 in funding to support small businesses and non-profits with their growth plans and to help drive future success.
Now on its 18th anniversary this year, the Xero Beautiful Business Fund looks to celebrate small businesses and help them achieve their dreams. Interested businesses are invited to enter in each of the four categories
- Innovating for environmental sustainability: For a small business or non-profit looking to take the next step in their environmental sustainability journey by minimising their own environmental impact; enhancing the sustainability of current products and services; or developing new environmentally friendly products and services.
- Trailblazing with technology: For a small business or non-profit that has a ‘future focus’ mindset and is seeking to innovate.
- Strengthening community connection: For a small business or non-profit that has a mission or purpose to serve their communities and make a positive impact.
- Upskilling for the future: For a small business or non-profit overcoming a skills gap either through upskilling themselves or their employees.
“We’re thrilled to offer the Xero Beautiful Business Fund again in 2024,” Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, Xero CEO, said. “As a global judge last year, getting to hear first-hand from our small business customers about their ideas and aspirations was a rewarding experience that reminded me of the resilience, drive and determination it takes to be a business owner.
“The fund is a chance to reflect on our purpose to make life better for small businesses, their advisors and communities around the world and provide meaningful support so our customers can fulfill their dreams or take that next big step with confidence,” Cassidy added.
The total prize pool amounts to an equivalent of AUD$700,000, which will be shared among 28 winners, with four winners in total (one in each category) coming from Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, United Kingdom, and the United States. The winners from each country will be determined by local judging panels, and each winner will receive AUD$20,000 and of those 28 winners, four will become global winners, determined by a global judging panel, and each global winner will receive an additional AUD$50,000.
“As the Xero Beautiful Business Fund returns for its second year, we are excited to continue Xero’s commitment to supporting and celebrating Australia’s incredible small-business community,” Anthony Drury, Xero’s Managing Director for ANZ, said. “By recognising the innovation, philanthropy and exceptional work of our valued customers, we hope that this year’s Xero Beautiful Business Fund will help four deserving businesses meet their dreams.”
Submissions for the 2024 Xero Beautiful Business Fund will close on 27 August and winners will be announced at the end of October.
