Clear Channel's Compass Scheme: Scaling Black-Owned Businesses Nationwide

Clear Channel UK is making a powerful statement in support of Black entrepreneurship with the return of its Compass scheme in 2025. This innovative initiative is set to provide unprecedented opportunities for emerging businesses to gain national visibility and support.

A Substantial Investment in Black Entrepreneurship

Clear Channel is demonstrating a significant commitment to diversity and inclusion by:

• Offering a £250,000 prize pot
• Providing five winners with £50,000 worth of national digital Out of Home advertising campaigns
• Supporting businesses in scaling up and expanding their reach across the UK

More Than Just Advertising: A Comprehensive Support Program

The Compass scheme goes beyond traditional advertising support. This year's program includes:

• National digital advertising campaigns
• Free design support for crafting impactful marketing materials
• Educational webinars
• Networking opportunities
• Access to industry experts and resources

An Independent Jury of Industry Leaders

To ensure a rigorous and credible selection process, Clear Channel has assembled an independent jury featuring prominent professionals:

• Segun Akinwoleola, Founder of The Gym Kitchen
• Cheryl Crilley, Business Director – OOH at Wavemaker
• Khalia Ismain, Black Entrepreneurs Programme Manager at Lloyds Bank
• Shannie Mears, Co-Founder and Head of Talent at The Elephant Room
• Ally Owen, Founder of Brixton Finishing School
• Michelle Sarpong, Commercial Lead at the 7stars
• Curtis Weir, OOH Group Director at Publicis Media

Voices Behind the Initiative

Caroline Forbes, head of sales – out of home agencies at Clear Channel, emphasizes the company's unwavering commitment: "While many businesses are scaling back their DEI efforts, we remain committed to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs through Compass."

Courtney Ismain, co-founder of Jamii, highlights the critical need for such initiatives: "There are incredible Black-owned brands nationwide who have a product to sell and a story to tell, but statistically Black business owners struggle more with access to resources."

How to Apply

• Applications are currently open
• Deadline: End of April
• Winners will be announced in early July

A Platform for Good

The Compass scheme is part of Clear Channel's broader "Platform for Good" commitment, which aims to:

• Support businesses
• Uplift communities
• Champion diverse voices across the UK

By providing national advertising space, expert support, and networking opportunities, Clear Channel is helping Black-owned businesses break through barriers and achieve their full potential.