TikTok announced that it will begin to invest in and support emerging Black creators and music artists through a program, "TikTok for Black Creatives," as a way to support and amplify their voices.
The three-month incubation will select 100 talented Black creators and music artists to convene for motivational conversations, community-building and educational forums with Black entrepreneurs, celebrities and TikTok executives.
According to TikTok, Black creators have been a "driving force for the platform, from setting trends, fostering connections and inspiring others." And so, the video-sharing platform wants to help further grow the creative community.
TikTok has also partnered with MACRO, a multiplatform media company founded by CEO Charles D. King, that represents the voice and perspectives of persons of color, to create a grant for a select group of creators and music artists. The funds can be applied toward educational resources, production equipment, and other creative content development tools. MACRO will also advise on the selection of speakers, programming content, and professional and business-building opportunities for creators.
Black TikTok creators will have until Jan. 27 to apply for the program. And the finalists will be named in February.