The Xero Beautiful Business Fund from global small business platform, Xero is returning for 2024, offering AU$700,000 in funding to support small businesses and non-profits with growth plans and to help drive future success.

The Xero Beautiful Business Fund was first launched on 6 July 2023 to coincide with Xero Day, the company’s anniversary. As Xero celebrates its 18th anniversary this year, the Xero Beautiful Business Fund celebrates small businesses and helps them achieve their dreams.

Entries for the Xero Beautiful Business Fund are now open to Xero small business customers in Australia, Canada (excluding Quebec), New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States until 27 August 2024 NZT. Winners will be announced in October 2024.

Xero small business customers will need to complete an online form and record and submit a 90-second pitch video to the competition website for as many categories as they would like to enter:

  • Innovating for environmental sustainability — For a small business or non-profit who wants to take the next step in their environmental sustainability journey by minimising their own environmental impact; enhancing the sustainability of current products and services; or developing new environmentally friendly products and services.
  • Trailblazing with technology — For a small business or non-profit that has a ‘future focus’ mindset and is seeking to innovate. These organisations want to set the pace and lead the charge using new and emerging technologies.
  • Strengthening community connection — For a small business or non-profit that has a mission or purpose rooted in serving their communities and making a positive impact. It could be to make a difference in the community they serve, support underserved or marginalised groups or contribute to social good through innovative ideas or solutions.
  • Upskilling for the future — For a small business or non-profit that wants to overcome a skills gap, either through upskilling themselves or their employees. These organisations see a path forward with greater access to training and professional development.

Xero CEO, Sukhinder Singh Cassidy said, “We’re thrilled to offer the Xero Beautiful Business Fund again in 2024. As a global judge last year, getting to hear first-hand from our small business customers about their ideas and aspirations was a rewarding experience that reminded me of the resilience, drive and determination it takes to be a business owner.

“The fund is a chance to reflect on our purpose to make life better for small businesses, their advisors and communities around the world and provide meaningful support so our customers can fulfill their dreams or take that next big step with confidence.”

The total prize pool of AU$700,000 will be shared among 28 winners. There will be four winners from each country (one in each category), determined by local judging panels, and each winner will receive AU$20,000. Of those 28 winners, four will become global winners, determined by a global judging panel, and each global winner will receive an additional AU$50,000.