Philly born comedian, Kevin Hart and Latino tequila maker, Juan Domingo Beckmann, who are partners of tequila brand, Gran Coramino Tequila, recently announced they are launching an entrepreneurial program that will benefit small business owners of diverse backgrounds.

Beckmann and Hart are partnering with Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), a community development organization and nonprofit devoted to closing systematic gaps in wealth and health.

Hart, who co-founded Gran Coramino Tequila, said that the $500,000 fund will support Black and Latinx small business owners and entrepreneurs across the U.S and Mexico so their businesses can succeed.

The grant money comes from purchases from the tequila. For every bottle that is sold, the company donates $1 towards the giveback program.

Hart explained how difficult it is to develop a new business without financial support, especially businesses created by Latino and Black entrepreneurs. 

"I am extremely proud to announce Gran Coramino's partnership with LISC to support Black and Latinx entrepreneurs all over the US. At Gran Coramino, we know that pursuing the path of entrepreneurship is hard work. We also know that some of our best and brightest have historically been excluded from opportunities or lacked the resources to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. As an entrepreneur myself, I know how impactful bringing financial resources and learning opportunities to these communities can be," Hart said.

LISC CEO Lisa Glover discussed the unfortunate history Black and Latino business owners have gone through for decades.

“Black and Latinx entrepreneurs historically have been blocked from access to affordable capital resources, which has restricted the ability of their businesses to grow, thrive, and create generational wealth,” said Glover.

Glover also said that now is the right time to highlight the work and creativity of Black and Latino entrepreneurs.

“We’re thrilled to team up with Gran Coramino Tequila to help close that opportunity gap by connecting these entrepreneurs to grants that enable them to nurture and mature their businesses,” she added. “Small businesses are the life-blood of a community and this funding to support Black and Latinx businesses not only benefits entrepreneurs but also brings vital jobs, goods, services, and energy to communities.”

Applications are now available online until Monday, Nov. 21, 2022.