Shopify 1MBB 120-Day Free Trial: Complete Guide for Black-Owned Businesses

Starting a business is one of the most powerful wealth-building moves you can make. But the startup costs, the technology learning curve, and the sheer number of decisions involved can feel overwhelming — especially when you are building something from scratch without a safety net.

That is exactly the gap Shopify's 1MBB (Operation 1 Million Black Businesses) program was designed to fill.

Through this initiative, Black entrepreneurs get something extraordinary: a 120-day free trial of Shopify's full e-commerce platform. That is not a typo. While the standard Shopify trial gives you just 3 days, the 1MBB program gives you four full months — 40 times longer — to build, test, and launch your online store without spending a dime on platform fees.

This guide covers everything you need to know: what the program includes, how to qualify, how to apply, and most importantly, a detailed month-by-month plan to make the most of every single day of your trial.

What Is the 1MBB (Operation 1 Million Black Businesses) Program?

The 1MBB initiative is a partnership between Shopify and Operation HOPE, the largest financial literacy and economic empowerment nonprofit in the United States. The program's goal is ambitious and clear: help one million Black entrepreneurs start, build, and scale their businesses.

Operation HOPE was founded by John Hope Bryant and has a decades-long track record of empowering underserved communities through financial education. When Shopify partnered with them, the result was one of the most comprehensive entrepreneurship support programs available anywhere.

The Vision Behind 1MBB

The program exists because the data tells a stark story. According to the Federal Reserve, Black-owned businesses receive approval for financing at significantly lower rates than their counterparts. The Brookings Institution has documented that Black entrepreneurs face systemic barriers to accessing capital, mentorship networks, and the technology tools needed to compete in modern commerce.

1MBB does not just throw technology at this problem. It takes a holistic approach:

• Technology access: A free 120-day Shopify trial with full platform features
• Education: Business fundamentals, digital marketing, and e-commerce courses
• Mentorship: One-on-one coaching with experienced business mentors
• Community: A network of fellow Black entrepreneurs for support and collaboration
• Financial literacy: Resources for managing business finances, credit, and capital

This is not a watered-down trial or a marketing gimmick. It is a genuine investment in building economic opportunity, and it represents one of the best deals available for any aspiring entrepreneur.

Why Shopify Specifically?

Shopify powers over 4 million businesses worldwide and processes hundreds of billions of dollars in sales annually. It is the platform behind brands like Kylie Cosmetics, Allbirds, Gymshark, and millions of independent stores. When you build on Shopify, you are using the same infrastructure as some of the most successful e-commerce brands on the planet.

The platform handles everything: website hosting, payment processing, inventory management, shipping, taxes, and more. You do not need to know how to code. You do not need to hire a developer. You just need a product to sell and the willingness to put in the work.

For a deeper look at what Shopify offers at each price tier, see our Shopify pricing plans guide.

The 120-Day Free Trial: What Is Included

The 1MBB trial is not a limited or stripped-down version of Shopify. You get full access to the platform for 120 days. Here is exactly what that includes:

Full Platform Access

• Unlimited products: List as many products as you want — physical goods, digital downloads, services, or gift cards
• Online store with customizable themes: Access to Shopify's full library of free and paid themes
• Shopify Payments: Accept credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay with no additional transaction fees
• Discount codes and promotions: Create percentage-based, fixed-amount, free shipping, and buy-one-get-one offers
• Abandoned cart recovery: Automatically email customers who leave items in their cart without checking out
• 24/7 customer support: Phone, email, and live chat support from Shopify's team
• Shopify POS Lite: Sell in person at markets, pop-ups, and events using your phone
• Blog: Built-in blogging platform for content marketing
• SSL certificate: Free security certificate so customers see the padlock icon and trust your site
• Manual order creation: Create orders on behalf of customers for phone or in-person sales

Sales Channels

During your trial, you can also connect:

• Facebook and Instagram Shopping: Tag products directly in your social media posts
• Google Shopping: List your products in Google search results and Shopping tab
• TikTok: Sell directly through TikTok content
• Amazon: Manage Amazon listings alongside your Shopify store
• Buy Button: Add purchase buttons to any existing website or blog

Apps and Integrations

You have access to the Shopify App Store, which includes thousands of free and paid apps for:

• Email marketing (Shopify Email is free for the first 10,000 emails per month)
• Reviews and social proof
• SEO optimization
• Upselling and cross-selling
• Accounting and bookkeeping integrations
• Print-on-demand fulfillment
• Dropshipping suppliers

In short, you have everything you need to build a legitimate, professional online business. The only thing the trial does not include is a custom domain name (though you can buy one through Shopify or use one you already own).

How the 1MBB Trial Compares to the Standard Shopify Trial

Let us put this into perspective with a side-by-side comparison:

The difference is staggering. With a standard trial, you barely have time to choose a theme and add a few products before the clock runs out. With the 1MBB trial, you have enough time to:

1. Learn the platform inside and out
2. Build a polished, professional store
3. Set up your marketing channels
4. Launch and start generating actual revenue
5. Analyze your data and optimize your store
6. Make an informed decision about whether Shopify is right for your business

That fourth point is critical. By the time your 120 days are up, you are not guessing about whether your business can work. You have real data, real customers, and real revenue to base your decision on.

If you are brand new to Shopify, our complete beginners tutorial walks you through every step of getting started.

Eligibility Requirements

The 1MBB program has straightforward eligibility requirements:

Ownership Requirement

Your business must be at least 50% Black-owned. This applies to:

• Sole proprietors (you are 100% owner by default)
• Partnerships where Black partners hold at least 50% ownership
• LLCs and corporations where Black founders or owners hold at least 50% equity

You do not need an incorporated business to apply. If you are a sole proprietor or have not formally registered your business yet, you are still eligible. The program is designed to help people at every stage, including those who are just getting started.

Geographic Requirements

The program is currently available in:

• United States (all 50 states, DC, and territories)
• Canada (all provinces and territories)
• United Kingdom

What You Do NOT Need

There are some common misconceptions about what is required. You do not need:

• An existing business or business license
• Previous e-commerce experience
• A business plan (though having one helps)
• A product already sourced or manufactured
• Any upfront payment or credit card on file
• A certain revenue level or number of employees

The program welcomes aspiring entrepreneurs who are still in the idea stage. If you have been thinking about starting a business but have not taken the leap yet, this is arguably the best time to do it.

Verification Process

The eligibility verification is based on self-certification. When you apply, you attest that your business meets the ownership requirements. Shopify and Operation HOPE trust applicants to be honest, and they have designed the process to be as barrier-free as possible.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the 1MBB program is straightforward. Here is exactly how to do it:

Step 1: Visit the 1MBB Portal

Go to Shopify's 1MBB page. You can find it by searching "Shopify 1MBB" or navigating directly through Shopify's website. The landing page explains the program benefits and has a clear call-to-action to get started.

Step 2: Create Your Account

Click the button to start your free trial. You will need to provide:

• Your email address
• A password for your Shopify account
• Your name

This creates your Shopify account. No credit card is required at this stage.

Step 3: Complete the 1MBB Application

After creating your Shopify account, you will be directed to the 1MBB application. This involves:

• Business information: Your business name (or planned business name), what you plan to sell, and your business stage (idea, side hustle, full-time, etc.)
• Eligibility confirmation: Self-certification that your business is at least 50% Black-owned
• Location: Confirming you are in an eligible country
• Goals: What you hope to achieve through the program (this helps them tailor resources to your needs)

Step 4: Access Your Dashboard

Once approved, you will have immediate access to:

• Your Shopify admin dashboard with the 120-day trial activated
• The 1MBB resource hub with courses, guides, and tools
• Community forums and networking opportunities
• Information about mentorship matching

Step 5: Enroll in Mentorship (Optional but Highly Recommended)

The mentorship component is one of the most valuable parts of the program. You will be matched with an experienced entrepreneur or business professional who can help guide you through the process of launching and growing your store.

Mentors can help with:

• Business strategy and positioning
• Product selection and pricing
• Marketing and customer acquisition
• Financial planning and budgeting
• Overcoming specific challenges you encounter

Step 6: Start Building

With your account active and resources available, it is time to start building your store. The rest of this guide provides a detailed month-by-month plan for making the most of your 120 days.

Additional 1MBB Benefits Beyond the Trial

The free trial is the headline benefit, but the 1MBB program offers much more. Here is what else you get:

Mentorship and Coaching

Through the partnership with Operation HOPE, you have access to:

• One-on-one business coaching: Personalized guidance from HOPE Inside coaches who specialize in entrepreneurship
• Financial literacy training: Understanding business credit, personal credit scores, managing cash flow, and preparing for financing
• Goal setting and accountability: Regular check-ins to keep you on track

Educational Resources

The 1MBB program provides curated learning paths including:

• E-commerce fundamentals: Everything from choosing a niche to fulfillment logistics
• Digital marketing basics: Social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and paid advertising
• Product photography: How to take professional-looking product photos with just a smartphone
• Copywriting: Writing product descriptions, about pages, and marketing materials that convert
• Legal basics: Business registration, taxes, trademarks, and compliance

Community and Networking

One of the most underrated benefits is the community aspect:

• Peer network: Connect with other Black entrepreneurs at similar stages
• Success story sharing: Learn from those who have gone through the program and succeeded
• Collaboration opportunities: Find potential partners, suppliers, and allies
• Exclusive events: Virtual and in-person events, workshops, and networking sessions

Curated App Recommendations

The program includes recommendations for apps and tools specifically suited for new entrepreneurs, including many with free plans or extended trials:

• Email marketing tools with generous free tiers
• Free product sourcing and dropshipping apps
• Social media scheduling and management tools
• Accounting software with free plans for small businesses

What to Build During Your 120 Days: A Month-by-Month Roadmap

Having 120 days is a tremendous advantage, but only if you use them wisely. Here is a detailed plan that turns your trial into a fully operational business.

Month 1: Foundation (Days 1-30)

Your first month is about building the foundation of your store. Do not rush to launch. A strong foundation prevents costly mistakes later.

Week 1: Research and Planning (Days 1-7)

Define your niche and target customer:

• Who exactly are you selling to? Be specific. "Women aged 25-40 who love sustainable fashion" is better than "people who like clothes."
• What problem does your product solve? What desire does it fulfill?
• Research your competition. Visit 10-15 stores in your niche. What do they do well? What gaps exist?

Validate your product idea:

• Search social media for conversations about your product category
• Check Google Trends for search volume and trends
• Look at Amazon bestseller lists in your category
• Ask potential customers directly (friends, family, social media followers)

Set clear business goals:

• Revenue target for your first 90 days of selling
• Number of products to launch with
• Customer acquisition cost budget
• Break-even point analysis

For help choosing the right niche, check out our Shopify niche selection guide.

Week 2: Store Setup (Days 8-14)

Choose and customize your theme:

• Browse Shopify's free themes. Dawn, Craft, and Sense are excellent starting points
• Pick a theme that matches your brand's personality
• Customize colors, fonts, and layout to match your brand identity
• Ensure your theme looks great on mobile (over 70% of e-commerce traffic is mobile)

Set up essential pages:

• Homepage with clear value proposition and featured products
• About page telling your brand story (this is especially powerful for 1MBB businesses — your story matters)
• Contact page with multiple ways to reach you
• Shipping policy page with clear delivery expectations
• Return and refund policy (be generous — it builds trust)
• Privacy policy and terms of service (Shopify can auto-generate these)

For a detailed walkthrough of store setup, see our guide on what to set up during your Shopify free trial.

Week 3: Products (Days 15-21)

Create your product listings:

• Write detailed, benefit-focused product descriptions (tell customers what the product does for them, not just what it is)
• Take high-quality product photos from multiple angles. Natural lighting works well. Use a clean, simple background
• Set competitive pricing. Research what competitors charge and position yourself strategically
• Organize products into collections (categories) that make browsing intuitive

Product photography tips on a budget:

• Use natural window light — it is free and flattering
• A white poster board makes an excellent backdrop
• Shoot from multiple angles: front, back, side, detail, and lifestyle (product in use)
• Use your smartphone's portrait mode for a professional depth-of-field effect
• Edit with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO

Week 4: Backend Setup (Days 22-30)

Configure your business essentials:

• Set up Shopify Payments to accept credit cards
• Configure tax settings for your location
• Set up shipping zones and rates (consider offering free shipping over a certain amount)
• Create discount codes for your launch (10-15% off is a strong launch incentive)
• Set up abandoned cart recovery emails
• Install Google Analytics for tracking
• Set up Facebook Pixel for future advertising

Legal foundations:

• Choose your business structure (sole proprietorship is simplest to start)
• Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS — it is free and takes minutes
• Open a separate business bank account
• Research any licenses or permits required in your area

If you want to move even faster, our guide on building an e-commerce website in one weekend shows you how to compress the setup timeline.

Month 2: Pre-Launch (Days 31-60)

With your foundation in place, Month 2 is about preparing for a successful launch. This is where many new entrepreneurs make the mistake of going live too soon. Take the time to do this right.

Week 5-6: Marketing Preparation (Days 31-44)

Build your social media presence:

• Create business accounts on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook at minimum
• Design a consistent visual identity across platforms (use Canva — it is free)
• Start posting content before your store launches. Share behind-the-scenes content, your entrepreneurial journey, product sneak peeks, and your brand story
• Post 3-5 times per week. Consistency matters more than perfection
• Engage genuinely with potential customers and other entrepreneurs in your niche

Start building your email list:

• Add an email signup form to your Shopify store (even before launch)
• Offer something valuable in exchange for email addresses: a discount code, a free guide, or early access to new products
• Use Shopify Email (free for first 10,000 emails/month) or Mailchimp's free plan
• Write your launch email sequence: announcement, countdown, launch day, and follow-up

Content strategy:

• Plan 30 days of social media content
• Write 2-3 blog posts for your Shopify store's blog (this helps with SEO and gives you content to share on social media)
• Create a brand hashtag and start using it

Week 7-8: Pre-Launch Buzz (Days 45-60)

Generate anticipation:

• Create a "coming soon" landing page on your store
• Share countdown content on social media
• Reach out to micro-influencers in your niche (those with 1,000-10,000 followers often collaborate for free product)
• Tell everyone in your personal network about your upcoming launch
• Consider a pre-launch giveaway to build your email list

Test everything:

• Place a test order yourself. Go through the entire checkout process
• Check your store on multiple devices: phone, tablet, and desktop
• Have 5-10 friends visit your store and give honest feedback
• Test your shipping calculations with different addresses
• Make sure all your emails (order confirmation, shipping notification, abandoned cart) look professional

Prepare your launch plan:

• Choose a specific launch date and time
• Write your launch day social media posts in advance
• Prepare a launch email for your email list
• Plan a launch promotion (limited-time discount, free shipping, or bonus gift with purchase)
• Line up friends and family to share your launch on their social media

Month 3: Launch (Days 61-90)

This is the month everything comes together. You go live, make your first sales, and start learning what works in real-time.

Week 9: Launch Week (Days 61-67)

Go live with confidence:

• Remove your store password and make your store publicly accessible
• Send your launch email to your entire list
• Post launch announcements across all social media platforms
• Text and message friends and family with a direct link
• Share your story — why you started this business, what it means to you, and who it is for

First sales tactics:

• Offer a launch week promotion to create urgency (e.g., "15% off everything for the first 48 hours")
• Share every order and review on your social media stories (with customer permission)
• Thank every single customer personally
• Ask satisfied customers to leave a review

Handle the emotional rollercoaster:

• Your first sale will feel incredible. Celebrate it
• Slow days are normal. They are not a reflection of your business's potential
• Stay focused on the process, not just the outcomes
• Lean on your 1MBB mentor and community for support

Week 10-11: Build Momentum (Days 68-81)

Customer acquisition:

• Start experimenting with paid advertising. Begin with a small budget ($5-10/day) on Facebook or Instagram
• Create content consistently. Document your journey — people love following entrepreneurs
• Engage with every comment, message, and interaction on social media
• Look for collaboration opportunities with complementary brands

Learn from your data:

• Check your Shopify analytics daily. Which products get the most views? Which convert?
• Where is your traffic coming from? Double down on what works
• What is your average order value? Can you increase it with bundles or upsells?
• What questions do customers ask most? Create content answering those questions

Our guide on building a Shopify store that converts from day one has detailed conversion optimization tips.

Week 12-13: Sustain and Scale (Days 82-90)

Expand your marketing:

• Launch a referral program (give customers a discount for referring friends)
• Start email marketing campaigns: new product announcements, sales, helpful content
• Explore additional sales channels: Instagram Shopping, Facebook Shops, Google Shopping
• Consider wholesale or pop-up event opportunities

Operational excellence:

• Streamline your fulfillment process. How can you ship faster?
• Build relationships with your suppliers for better pricing or terms
• Document your processes so they can be repeated or delegated
• Start thinking about hiring help if volume warrants it

Month 4: Optimize (Days 91-120)

Your final month is about using the data you have gathered to optimize everything. This is where you transform a functioning store into a profitable business.

Week 14-15: Data Analysis and Optimization (Days 91-104)

Conversion rate optimization (CRO):

• Review your store's conversion rate. The average Shopify store converts at 1.4%. If you are below that, focus on these areas:
  • Product page quality: Are descriptions compelling? Are photos professional?
  • Checkout friction: Is anything confusing or unnecessary in the checkout process?
  • Trust signals: Do you have reviews, a clear return policy, and security badges?
  • Page speed: Slow sites kill conversions. Use Shopify's built-in speed report

Product strategy refinement:

• Identify your best sellers and increase their visibility (homepage features, ads)
• Consider discontinuing products that get views but no sales
• Explore complementary products you could add based on customer behavior
• Test different prices on underperforming products

Marketing optimization:

• Review your ad performance. Kill campaigns that are not profitable. Scale those that are
• Analyze your email marketing metrics. Which subject lines get opened? Which emails drive sales?
• Review your social media analytics. Which platforms drive the most traffic and sales?

For a comprehensive scaling strategy, see our guide on scaling your Shopify store from zero to $10K/month.

Week 16-17: Plan for Post-Trial Success (Days 105-120)

Choose your Shopify plan:

By now, you have enough data to make an informed decision. Here is a quick guide:

• Shopify Basic ($39/month): Best for stores doing under $10,000/month. This is the right choice for most new businesses
• Shopify ($105/month): Better reporting and lower transaction fees. Good for stores doing $10,000-$50,000/month
• Shopify Advanced ($399/month): For stores doing $50,000+/month with international selling needs

Most 1MBB participants transition to the Basic plan. You can always upgrade as you grow. Check our detailed Shopify pricing plans guide for a complete comparison.

Secure your financial foundation:

• Review your profit margins. Are they sustainable?
• Calculate your customer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (LTV)
• Set a budget for Shopify subscription, apps, and marketing
• Explore small business financing options if you need capital to scale (SBA microloans, Kiva, and Shopify Capital are good starting points)

Set goals for the next 90 days:

• Revenue targets based on your trial period data
• Marketing channel expansion plans
• New product launch timeline
• Operational improvements to implement

Success Stories from 1MBB Participants

The 1MBB program has produced thousands of success stories. While individual results vary, these examples illustrate what is possible when talent meets opportunity.

From Side Hustle to Full-Time Business

Many 1MBB participants have used the 120-day trial to test their business idea while keeping their day job. The extended trial gives them enough time to validate the concept, build a customer base, and generate consistent revenue — all before making the leap to full-time entrepreneurship.

Common patterns among successful participants:

• They treated the trial like a real business from Day 1
• They took advantage of the mentorship program and were coachable
• They focused on a specific niche rather than trying to sell everything
• They invested time in marketing, especially social media and email
• They collected and acted on customer feedback quickly

Community-Driven Growth

One of the most powerful aspects of the 1MBB community is the way participants support each other. Business owners share suppliers, recommend apps, cross-promote each other's products, and provide honest feedback. This collaborative environment accelerates everyone's growth.

The Ripple Effect

Black business ownership creates ripple effects throughout communities. Studies show that Black-owned businesses are more likely to hire within their communities, creating jobs and circulating wealth locally. When a 1MBB participant succeeds, the impact extends far beyond their individual store.

After the Trial: Choosing the Right Shopify Plan

When your 120 days end, your store does not disappear. Everything you have built — your products, your customer data, your orders, your design — is preserved. You simply choose a plan and continue.

Transitioning Smoothly

Here is how to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Choose your plan before day 120. Do not wait until the last minute. Review the plan comparison in our pricing guide
2. Have your payment method ready. Add a credit card or link a PayPal account
3. Review your app costs. Some free trial apps may start charging. Audit your installed apps and remove any you are not actively using
4. Lock in annual billing if possible. You save 25% compared to monthly billing. If your trial showed consistent revenue, this is usually worth it

Cost Management Tips

Keeping costs low in the early months is critical. Here are some strategies:

• Start with Shopify Basic. It has everything most new stores need
• Use free apps whenever possible. Many premium apps have free alternatives
• Shopify Email is free for 10,000 emails/month. That is enough for most early-stage stores
• Free themes from Shopify are high-quality and mobile-responsive. You do not need a paid theme to look professional
• Shopify Payments eliminates extra transaction fees. Use it if available in your country

When to Upgrade

Upgrade to the next plan when the math makes sense:

• If third-party transaction fee savings exceed the price difference between plans
• When you need more staff accounts for team members
• When you need professional reports to make data-driven decisions
• When you are selling internationally and need duties and import tax calculations

Other Resources for Black Entrepreneurs

The 1MBB program is exceptional, but it is not the only resource available. Here are additional organizations and programs supporting Black entrepreneurs:

Funding and Grants

• SBA Community Advantage Loans: Small Business Administration loans specifically designed for underserved communities
• Kiva: Zero-interest microloans crowdfunded by the community. Many Black entrepreneurs have successfully funded their first inventory through Kiva
• Backstage Capital: Venture capital fund specifically investing in underrepresented founders
• NAACP Powershift Entrepreneur Grant: Grants for Black business owners
• Black Ambition: Pharrell Williams' nonprofit offering prizes up to $1 million for Black and Latino entrepreneurs
• Shopify Capital: Once your store generates consistent revenue, you may qualify for Shopify's merchant cash advance program

Education and Training

• SCORE: Free business mentoring from retired executives. Many offices focus on underserved entrepreneurs
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses: Free business education program with a strong track record
• Google for Startups Black Founders Fund: Funding plus Google resources and mentorship
• Operation HOPE (beyond 1MBB): Ongoing financial literacy and business coaching programs

Networking and Community

• National Black Chamber of Commerce: Advocacy, networking, and resources for Black businesses
• Black Business Association: Local chapters providing networking events, workshops, and certification
• African American Chamber of Commerce (regional chapters): Business support services and networking opportunities
• Buy From a Black Woman: Directory and community supporting Black women entrepreneurs

Directories and Marketplaces

Getting your business listed in directories that highlight Black-owned businesses can drive meaningful traffic:

• Official Black Wall Street: App and directory connecting consumers with Black-owned businesses
• WeBuyBlack: Online marketplace dedicated to Black-owned businesses
• Support Black Owned: Digital directory organized by category and location
• EatOkra: For food and beverage businesses (restaurant guide for Black-owned restaurants)

Maximizing Your 1MBB Experience: Advanced Tips

Beyond the month-by-month plan, here are advanced strategies to squeeze every drop of value from the program.

Leverage the Mentorship Aggressively

Your mentor has likely made the mistakes you are about to make. Use them:

• Come to every session with specific questions
• Share your numbers openly. They can not help if they do not know your situation
• Ask for introductions to their network
• Be honest about your challenges. Mentors respect vulnerability
• Implement their advice and report back on results

Build in Public

Sharing your entrepreneurial journey publicly is one of the most effective marketing strategies available, and it costs nothing:

• Post about your daily progress on social media
• Share the highs and the lows. Authenticity builds connection
• Document your 1MBB experience. Other aspiring entrepreneurs want to know what it is like
• Use hashtags like #1MBB, #BlackOwnedBusiness, #ShopBlack, and #SupportBlackBusiness

Focus on Email from Day One

Social media algorithms can change overnight. Your email list is the one marketing asset you truly own:

• Aim to have at least 500 email subscribers by launch day
• Send a weekly email even if your store is not live yet. Share your journey, upcoming products, and your brand story
• Segment your list early. Separate buyers from browsers. They need different messages
• Set up automated email flows: welcome series, abandoned cart, post-purchase, and win-back

Start with a Focused Product Line

Resist the urge to launch with dozens of products. Successful 1MBB participants typically start with 5-15 products:

• A focused product line looks more professional than a random collection
• Fewer products mean better product photos and descriptions for each
• You can reorder winning products and discontinue losers quickly
• Customers are less overwhelmed with fewer, well-curated options

If you are considering starting a boutique from home, our guide on starting an online boutique from home with Shopify provides a detailed playbook.

Use Free Tools Wisely

You do not need a big budget to run professional marketing. These free tools are staples for 1MBB participants:

• Canva: Design social media graphics, product labels, packaging inserts, and marketing materials
• Unsplash and Pexels: Free stock photography for your website and social media
• Google Analytics: Track your website traffic and understand your customers
• Shopify Email: Send up to 10,000 emails per month at no cost
• Later or Buffer free plans: Schedule social media posts in advance
• ChatGPT: Help with product descriptions, email subject lines, and marketing copy

Common Questions and Concerns

"I do not have a product idea yet. Should I still apply?"

Absolutely. The 120-day trial gives you time to research, validate, and source products. You can use your first 2-3 weeks entirely for research. Consider these low-barrier product categories:

• Print-on-demand: Custom t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and art prints. No inventory needed
• Digital products: E-books, templates, planners, presets, or courses
• Curated products: Source products from wholesalers and add your brand's curation and storytelling
• Handmade goods: If you make something — candles, jewelry, skincare, art — you already have your product

"I am not tech-savvy. Can I still succeed?"

Shopify was designed for non-technical people. If you can use social media, you can use Shopify. The platform uses a drag-and-drop editor, and the 1MBB program includes educational resources specifically for beginners. Your mentor can also help you navigate any technical challenges.

"What if my business does not work?"

This is one of the best things about the 1MBB program: your risk is virtually zero. You are not paying for the platform during the trial. If your business does not gain traction, you have lost time and effort — but not money on platform fees. And the skills you learn (digital marketing, customer service, financial management) are valuable regardless of whether this specific business succeeds.

"Do I need to sell physical products?"

No. Shopify supports:

• Physical products
• Digital downloads (e-books, music, templates, software, courses)
• Services (consulting, coaching, design work)
• Gift cards
• Subscriptions and memberships
• Experiences (workshops, events, tours)

"Can I use 1MBB if I already sell on Etsy, Amazon, or social media?"

Yes, and you should. Shopify does not replace your existing sales channels — it gives you a home base that you own and control. You can continue selling on Etsy and Amazon while building your Shopify store. In fact, Shopify integrates with both platforms, allowing you to manage everything from one dashboard.

How to Apply Right Now

If you are a Black entrepreneur in the US, Canada, or UK, there is genuinely no reason not to apply. The 1MBB program offers:

• 120 days of free access to a world-class e-commerce platform
• Mentorship from experienced business professionals
• A community of fellow entrepreneurs who understand your journey
• Educational resources covering every aspect of running a business
• Financial literacy training to build long-term wealth

The application is free. The trial is free. The mentorship is free. The only investment is your time and effort.

Ready to get started? Visit Shopify's 1MBB page to apply for your 120-day free trial today.

If you want to see how your current online presence stacks up before building your store, try our free site audit tool to identify opportunities for improvement.

Have questions about getting your store set up, optimizing for search visibility, or building a marketing strategy? Contact our team — we help e-commerce businesses get found by the customers who are searching for exactly what they sell.

Further Reading

Ready to deep-dive into building your Shopify store? These guides will help you at every stage:

• Shopify Free Trial: What to Set Up First — A prioritized checklist for your first days on the platform
• Shopify Complete Beginner's Tutorial 2026 — Step-by-step walkthrough of every Shopify feature you need to know
• How to Start an Online Boutique from Home — A detailed guide for launching a fashion, beauty, or lifestyle store
• Build an E-Commerce Website in One Weekend — Compressed timeline for getting your store live fast
• Build a Shopify Store That Converts from Day One — Conversion optimization strategies for new stores
• Scale Your Shopify Store from Zero to $10K/Month — Growth tactics for when your store is up and running
• Shopify Pricing Plans Guide 2026 — Detailed comparison to choose the right plan after your trial ends