SOAR Together Rural

Selling Big from Small Towns

In partnership with TikTok Shop , Braven Agency, and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, this 6-week virtual accelerator is designed to help rural entrepreneurs master TikTok Shop, grow their customer base, and turn local products into nationwide sales.

Empowering Rural Businesses in the Digital Age

Small-town businesses have big potential and TikTok Shop is your bridge to customers everywhere.

The TikTok Shop Accelerator for Rural Businesses brings expert training, one-on-one mentorship, and a supportive peer network, all designed to help you sell successfully online while keeping your rural authenticity.

This program is part of SOAR Together, TikTok’s social impact initiative supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs and is delivered in partnership with Braven Agency and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation.

You’re a great fit if you:

  • Are registered and in good standing in the U.S. (LLC, sole proprietorship, partnership, or nonprofit with a revenue model).

  • Operate in or serve a rural community (population under 50,000; exceptions up to 100,000).

  • Have been in business at least 1 year with proven sales or active product/service delivery.

  • Sell physical products or tangible offerings eligible for TikTok Shop.

  • Have a business bank account for TikTok Shop payments.

What You’ll Learn

Over 6 weeks, you’ll gain practical skills to build your TikTok Shop presence and grow sales:


Week 1: TikTok Shop 101: Setup & success basics
Week 2: Finding your niche & products that sell
Week 3: Creating TikTok videos that convert
Week 4: Working with the TikTok algorithm
Week 5: Optimizing your listings for more sales
Week 6: Scaling with ads, analytics & growth strategies

Special rural-focused tips throughout include:

  • Leveraging rural authenticity as a brand strength

  • Low-bandwidth content strategies

  • Cross-promotion with local events

  • Peer networking with other rural sellers

Benefits

  • Hands-on Learning: Real-time guidance from TikTok Shop experts.

  • Mentorship: One-on-one coaching tailored to your business.

  • Community: Build connections with other rural entrepreneurs.

  • Spotlight Opportunities: Share your story on TikTok’s platforms.

  • Free to Join: No cost for accepted participants.

Key Dates

6Our first application round is closed, but due to massive demand, we are thrilled to announce a second chance to join our 6-week virtual accelerator for the new year. Limited spots are available—apply immediately to secure your place!
 
  • Applications Open: Now!
  • Applications Close: January 31st, 2026
  • Cohort Announced: February 4th, 2026
  • Program Runs: February 11th – March 18th, 2026

*Dates may be subject to change

Ready to Grow Your Business on TikTok Shop?

Don’t miss your chance to join the first TikTok Shop Accelerator for Rural Businesses. Apply today and turn your small-town story into big-time success.

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TT Policy SMB Tour: State Focus

The following are the TT policy team’s SMB tour. Timing for visits will be forthcoming.

  • Washington
  • California
  • New York
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Illinois
  • Texas
  • Wyoming — https://csgwest.org/
  • Massachusetts