Welcome to the Family, Boston!
We’re growing the JLH Family with Boston Businesses! Jrue and Lauren’s Holiday’s move to the Boston Celtics shined a light on a special need for Boston-based businesses to receive much-needed funding and support from the JLH Fund. As Jrue joins the Celtics, we are excited to extend our support to Boston's vibrant business community.
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The Opportunity for Businesses in Boston
Crowdfunding Support
The JLH Fund will match dollar for dollar, up to $17,500 of what each grantee raises through a FundBlackFounders crowdfunding campaign.
Initial Investment
Each selected Boston-based for-profit organization will receive an initial grant of $17,500 as direct, unrestricted funding.
Continued Financial Support
Grantees meeting specific metrics and milestones will receive an additional $35,000 per year for two years.
Commitment to Growth
This program is designed to support the long-term growth and sustainability of underserved businesses in Boston.
How it Works
Apply
Complete the application and meet the eligibility criteria for the JLH Social Impact Fund.
Train
Selected organizations receive training and coaching to maximize funding opportunities.
Grow
Benefit from ongoing coaching and mentorship to achieve your goals.
Eligibility
Funding Application Criteria:
For-profit small businesses based in Boston (max 250 employees)
Businesses contributing positively to underserved communities
Founder(s) must be 21+ and own at least 51% of the business.
JLH Fund Grantee Selection Criteria:
Priority given to Boston-based applicants demonstrating a commitment to serving diverse communities.
Key Dates
Application Open: June 13th, 2024
Application Webinar: June 27th, 2024
Accepted Grantees Notified: October 2024
First Class Starts: November 2024
Community Partners
The JLH Experience
Being a JLH Fund grantee means receiving funding and coaching resources and being part of a supportive community.
Unrestricted grant funding and unparalleled coaching resources
Annual Family Reunions hosted by Jrue and Lauren
Media Amplification through releases and storytelling opportunities
Community Conversations for supporting initiatives and causes
Strategy Sessions for community engagement and visibility
Partnership Opportunities with financial, technological, and consumer product collaborators
Bespoke Coaching in marketing, PR, partnerships, and strategic planning
A 14-week crowdfunding sprint coaching program by FundBlackFounders
Program Partners
Be bold. Apply.
Join the JLH team members in an overview of the JLH Fund program, the application process, and a Q&A session.
About the Fund
The Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund now offers a multi-year grant to Boston's diverse, underserved businesses.
Discover success stories from our JLH Alumni
Founders Like You
Compton Vegan
“The JLH Fund grant helped me to secure a food truck and continue to remain in business and served Compton and surrounding cities labeled as food desserts and swamps with plant-based dishes.”
-Lemel Durrah
Pucker Up Lemonade Company
“The JLH Fund has equipped us with the necessary funding to survive the global pandemic, upgrade equipment, and employ 4 part-time employees. Additionally, the grant has also assisted us to fund the build-out of our Pucker Up Lemonade Truck, which is near completion.”
-Karneisha Christian-Stewart
The Variety Group Inc.
“Keep God first and never let any situation get in the way of your dreams, the universe conspires to help you and JLH helped me!”
-Marquell Byrd
The Blue Flamingo Sports Bar & Grill
“The funds were a tremendous help for my business, because of this grant we were able to retain all of our employees. The grant allowed us to restock our inventory and catch up on bills. We are very grateful for the JLH Fund Grant.”
- Joshua Rounds
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JLH Fund: A Closer Look
Lives and local businesses across the nation have been profoundly affected by the global pandemic and the ongoing challenges of racial and social injustices. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address these issues, Jrue Holiday, a renowned NBA player, and his wife Lauren, have been at the forefront of this endeavor.
In July of 2020, Jrue, then a player for the New Orleans Pelicans, together with Lauren, made a significant commitment by pledging the remainder of Jrue’s 2020 NBA salary. This bold step was aimed at combating systemic racism and socioeconomic inequality, factors that have historically hindered the progress of diverse and underserved communities.
Jrue and Lauren Holiday have since continued their commitment by supporting a variety of initiatives focused on driving equitable outcomes for Black and Brown communities. Their efforts extend to a range of sectors, including local non-profits, educational institutions, and city-wide initiatives, all aimed at fostering growth and opportunity in these communities.
Their support has been particularly concentrated in areas where they have personal connections. Los Angeles, Jrue’s hometown and the couple's college town; Indianapolis, Lauren’s hometown; and New Orleans, the city where Jrue played for the Pelicans, have been key focus areas. Their efforts in these cities reflect a deep commitment to fostering community growth and resilience.
In their journey to create impactful change, Jrue and Lauren have partnered with various local organizations and leaders. These collaborations have been instrumental in amplifying their efforts and encouraging additional support from other quarters. Their partnerships include ties with civic leaders and organizations dedicated to making meaningful contributions and awards to communities in need.
As the JLH Fund embarks on its new chapter in Boston, the spirit of this commitment remains the same. The goal is to build a united front that supports a diverse range of businesses and non-profit organizations, helping them overcome barriers and achieve sustainable growth.