Small Business Training Camp

The Change that Matters

50% of small businesses fail within five years, and 76% of entrepreneurs report feeling profoundly isolated. Gen Z’s solopreneur share is set to double by 2030, yet in a crowded telecom market where AT&T and T-Mobile had locked up major sports properties, traditional connectivity messaging meant nothing to entrepreneurs who wanted a true partner.

The Work

We hijacked the NFL training camp moment to reposition Verizon Business as the championship coaching staff for small business owners. Drew Brees and Kristin Juszczyk weren’t spokespeople; they embodied the idea that elite support builds lasting success. Twenty selected entrepreneurs attended a live Small Business Training Camp at Levi’s Stadium, receiving coaching sessions, expert workshops, and on-field shared experiences designed to directly address isolation. Ambassador and creator content drove qualified entries throughout, with strategic placements in Women’s Wear Daily, Page Six, The Gist, and Essence, amplified by 19 NFL teams.

The Impact

The campaign earned 3.4 billion media impressions and 4.5 million social impressions. Small Business Ambassadors delivered 412% over contracted deliverables. The sweepstakes drove 2,200+ Digital Ready sign-ups, and the program’s success secured commitment for annual expansion.