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GET
RETAIL
READY!
Savannah Stephens
FOUNDER,
KINDRED PAPERS
KINDRED PAPERS
WE’RE
HELPING
YOU
GET Retail READY!
What is the RICE Retail Readiness Academy (RRA)™?
The RICE Retail Readiness
Academy (RRA)™ is a game-
changing, experiential learning
program designed to accelerate
the success of high-performing,
product-based Black-owned
businesses in the retail industry.
More than just an incubator or
accelerator, RRA™ is a strategic
launchpad providing uncommon
access to opportunities and
resources that will fast-track
established brands, equipping
them with the tools, insights, and
connections needed to navigate
and thrive in the complex retail
space.
WE’RE
HELPING
YOU
GET Retail READY!
Who is it for?
This program is ideal for founders who
have established their product offerings
and foundational assets and are ready
to take their business to the next level;
whether that means entering retail for
the first time or expanding their
presence in national and global
markets.
Eligible Product Categories:
- Personal Care
- Health & Beauty
- Home Goods
- Home & Decor
- Food & Beverage (Including wine and spirits)
- Pet
- Sporting Goods
- Toys & Entertainment
- Games
- Wearable Tech,
- Baby & Toddler Products
- Paper Goods (Books, greeting card, journals, etc.)
Dr. Monica Williams and Dana Roberts
CO-foundeRS,
RED DROP
RED DROP
Terri-Nichelle Bradley
RRA™ Faculty Lead
Founder,
Brown Toy Box
Founder,
Brown Toy Box
When does it start?
RRA™ operates in high-impact 7-month sprints, designed to fast-track the retail
success of Black-owned consumer product brands. Each cohort embarks on a
transformational journey from April to October, gaining the insights, strategies, and
connections necessary to break into and scale within the competitive retail landscape.
success of Black-owned consumer product brands. Each cohort embarks on a
transformational journey from April to October, gaining the insights, strategies, and
connections necessary to break into and scale within the competitive retail landscape.
Key Dates for the Upcoming Cohort:
- Application Opens: Monday, Feb 17, 2025
- RRA™ Mixer and Info Session: monday, FEB 24, 2025 | 6PM
- Application Deadline: Saturday, Mar 1, 2025
- Program Duration: Apr – Oct 2025
- Programming Days: Tuesdays, 6-9 PM (In-Person)
Terri-Nichelle Bradley
RRA™ Faculty Lead
Founder,
Founder,
Brown Toy Box
What is required to join?
RRA™ is designed for high-performing, product-based brands ready to scale in the retail industry. Admission into RRA™ is competitive and requires a demonstrated commitment to growth, strategy, and execution.
This program is designed for founders who are serious about taking their brand to new heights in retail. If you’re ready to refine your strategy, strengthen your retail positioning, and build a brand that thrives in major marketplaces, RRA™ is the next step in your journey.
Application Insight
All prospective participants must submit a detailed application
Weekly Commitment
In-person attendance required at the Russell Center on Tuesday evenings.
Business Readiness
Ensure you have foundational business assets and revenue traction.
Program Requirements
Review eligibility criteria outlined in the application guidelines.
Tiffany Davis
foundeR,
Girlsupps nutrition
Girlsupps nutrition
Application Insight
All prospective participants must submit a detailed application
Weekly Commitment
In-person attendance required at the Russell Center on Tuesday evenings.
Business Readiness
Ensure you have foundational business assets and revenue traction.
Program Requirements
Review eligibility criteria outlined in the application guidelines.
Tiffany Davis
foundeR,
Girlsupps nutrition
Girlsupps nutrition
How are brands selected?
RRA™ is for founders who are not just dreamers but doers—entrepreneurs with vision, traction, and the determination to scale. Admission is based on a rigorous selection process that evaluates each applicant’s brand potential, business readiness, and commitment to growth.
Kenneth Duncan
Founder,
Renegade Golf
Renegade Golf
Dana Roberts & Dr. Monica Williams
CO-foundeRS,
RED DROP
RED DROP
Shanise Thomason
President,
Khroma Colors
Khroma Colors
What are the benefits?
RRA™ provides uncommon access and unparalleled opportunities for brands to gain the expertise, strategy, and connections needed to thrive in the retail industry. RRA™ doesn’t just prepare you for retail—it positions you for long-term success and growth.
Benefits include:
- Tailored Curriculum & Growth Opportunities
- Expert Faculty & Community Access
- Expert Consultation Services
- Brand Development & Marketing Support
- Corporate Exposure & Relationship Building
- $5,000 Small Business Grant for Participants
Stefan Miller
RRA™ Faculty Lead,
CEO, Young Kings Hair Care
CEO, Young Kings Hair Care
Understand the Retail Landscape
Refine Business & Growth StrategY
Exclusive Buyer Access & Line Review
StrENGTHEN Retail-Ready Operations
Are brands guaranteed to get into retail after participating?
While RRA™ provides brands with the essential skills, strategies, and connections to excel in retail, entry into the market is not guaranteed. Success in retail depends on a variety of factors, including market conditions, competition, and a brand’s ability to execute and adapt. RRA™ is designed to give your brand the competitive edge needed to confidently pursue and secure retail opportunities. Brands that fully engage, implement what they learn, and continue refining their strategy will be better prepared, more marketable, and positioned for long-term retail success.
Who are some of the retail partners?
RRA™ is backed by a powerful network of industry-leading partners. Through strategic collaborations with major retailers, financial institutions, and industry experts, RRA™ provides uncommon access to the resources, insights, and connections needed to thrive in retail. With the support of these key partners, RRA™ participants gain direct exposure, invaluable mentorship, and strategic insights that position them for success in the retail marketplace.
