citizenM launches open call for its inaugural Founders First programme

Designed to celebrate and empower small business owners in underrepresented communities 

citizenM launches the new inclusion-inspired initiative alongside co-working benefits for all 

citizenM, a hotel brand built for entrepreneurs and creators, today announces the launch of its inaugural Founders First programme – an initiative designed to support the growth of small businesses, with a particular focus on underrepresented communities. The launch comes at the same time as the introduction of citizenM’s new co-working benefit, to meet the increasing demand for flexible workspaces and on-the-go solutions.

As a continuation of the brand’s commitment to supporting founders and in honor of Pride Month this June, the brand is launching the Founders First program. The program aims to support LGBTIQA+ founders, who are known to receive 16% less funding in the US compared to the average founder, despite being responsible for the creation of 36% more jobs, 114% more patents and 44% more exits. 

Founders First will offer LGBTIQA+ founders the chance to receive a two-year mycitizenM+ membership for themselves and their teams of up to 10 pax (which includes access to free co-working at any of citizenM’s 34 hotels worldwide), and a chance to showcase their product or service in its flagship hotels in either New York City or London, depending on the location of their business. In addition, visibility across its global channels through campaign content, consultations with citizenM’s expert procurement team, plus £5,000 to facilitate their brand vision. To launch the program, citizenM will host an open call on socials (@citizenM) from June 6, where founders will be invited to submit by sharing their brand vision in a way that feels right to them – whether it’s through a pitch deck, a video, or any other format. One US and one UK founder will be chosen to join the program. 

The initiative stems from citizenM’s celebration of individuality, creative expression and freedom, firmly believing in the significance of honoring and championing the LGBTIQA+ community not just during Pride Month but throughout the year. citizenM’s commitment to inclusivity is woven into every aspect of its hotels. From its welcoming brand statement, “citizenM welcomes you all”, to the colorful and diverse atmosphere created by its art & design and vibrant mix of ambassadors and guests, the Founders First initiative comes as an extension of the brand’s core values.

“At citizenM, we celebrate individuality, creative expression and freedom every day. As a brand built for entrepreneurs and creators, we recognize the LGBTIQA+ community’s underrepresentation in the founder space,” saidRobin Chadha, citizenM’s Chief Brand Officer. “That is why we’re thrilled to launch our inaugural Founders Firstprogram, designed to provide the community with opportunities to grow, network and feel a sense of belonging with citizenM. As a brand, we hope to serve as a hub for inspiration and growth, so we’re excited to support our new founders.”

A vital hub for business and entrepreneurship, citizenM also introduces its new co-working benefit, accessed by becoming a mycitizenM+ member. Additional member benefits include 15% off hotel rooms, free late checkout and a free upgrade to premium view room (both subject to availability), 15% off societyM meeting rooms, 15% off F&B, early access to discounts, members-only events, and more – all for just £90 a year.

The co-working proposition delivers a healthy dose of creativity, collaboration and community, further serving entrepreneurs and enhancing their professional journeys. This initiative embodies citizenM’s dedication to supporting professionals by providing spaces that inspire creativity, collaboration and a sense of community across its global locations. citizenM offers an inspiring alternative to home offices or crowded cafés. 

As citizenM continues to expand its portfolio with new openings later this year in Miami South Beach (a third hotel in the city) and Boston Back Bay (the brand’s second location in the city), the next generation of creators, founders, entrepreneurs and small business owners can choose to work from their local citizenM or travel to any of citizenM’s 34 (and growing) hotels worldwide. 

For more information about Founders First, visit https://www.citizenm.com/campaigns/founders-first

For more information about mycitizenM+ and the new co-working benefit, visit www.citizenm.com/membership/work