By CultureBanx Team
- Facebook commits $10M over two years to support the Black gaming community
- 73% of African-Americans are active gamers
Facebook is committing $10 million over two years to support the Black gaming community. The gaming sector is one of the fastest growing and lucrative entertainment industries out there, with experts projecting it will earn over $300 billion by 2025. Facebook’s effort should support the Black gaming community and equip its next generation of creators, including livestreamers or influencers. With 73% of African-Americans being active gamers, how much money has been missed by ignoring the culture?
Why This Matters: Currently, the racial makeup of corporate gaming is 68% white and 74% male. Despite this lack of diversity, the culture has still made its mark on gaming by increasing its clout within popular culture and helping the industry reach $131 billion in revenue last year. Typically, one of the main issues with growth in gaming, is that it is not inclusive or representative of the gamers who support the industry.
The culture has still made its mark on gaming by increasing its clout within popular culture and helping the industry reach $131B in revenue last year
Among those participating in the new program is KingRichard, a Facebook Gaming creator, who said that growing up as a new streamer is tough. “Most people in this category have to learn by doing, and advice and mentorship are really important for fostering and teaching creators,” he said.
Facebook’s investment in the space is designed to offer creators the opportunity to grow their communities and build businesses. For those admitted into the program, Facebook can offer an official partnership to make these Black creators into partners. It can also offer early access to new streaming features and tools designed to help creators grow their community on the platform.
Situational Awareness: This announcement builds on the $200 million commitment that Facebook made earlier this year to support Black-owned businesses and organizations. It’s part of a broader $1.1 billion investment in Black and diverse suppliers and communities in the US.
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