TikTok Shop launched its Supporting Our Artisans and Retailers (SOAR) Together program, aiming to empower small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) on the platform. The initiative introduces two social impact programs targeting women-owned and LGBTQIA+ businesses.

The Women-Owned TikTok Shop Accelerator, a six-week program, selects 15 American businesses to participate. TikTok partners with the Conscious Commerce Accelerator (CCA) and the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC) to provide mentorship and growth opportunities. Participants receive custom courses on business skills, including TikTok Shop operations, sales forecasting, and social media metrics analysis.

TikTok’s 2024 Economic Impact Report reveals that 81% of young female entrepreneurs under 30 agree their business needs to continue using and improving TikTok marketing content to stay competitive.

For LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs, TikTok Shop partners with StartOut to support 30 U.S.-based LGBTQIA+ owned businesses. The program offers scholarships for StartOut’s Founders Program, providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Nico Le Bourgeois, Head of TikTok Shop U.S. Operations, states in the announcement, “By the end of the program, we hope participating sellers and creators feel even more empowered for the endless possibilities ahead for them on TikTok Shop.”

The company says SOAR Together program addresses the unique needs of small businesses and creators on TikTok Shop. TikTok plans to announce future SOAR cohorts, indicating ongoing support for SMBs within its ecosystem.