August is National Black Business Month, and it's the perfect time to highlight and support organizations that promote economic freedom for Black families.
National Black Business Month began in 2004 when California-based engineer and businessman Fred E. Jordan, along with author and journalist John William Templeton, sought a way to highlight Black-owned businesses. Jordan recognized that Black business owners had a need for resources and community support if they were going to be successful and thrive. According to the United States Census Survey of Business Owners, the ratio of black businesses to the Black population in the United States is disproportionate.
Jordan and Templeton's aim is to call attention to Black-owned organizations through community outreach that provides access to resources to help community members go into business for themselves and ultimately begin to close the wage gap that exists within Black families.
Why should I support Black-owned businesses?
Jeff Bezos's recent controversial expression of gratitude to Amazon customers and employees, indicating that 'you guys paid for all this,' was not met well with critics and reflects a need to move away from current spending habits. In a time when so many families are struggling to keep their heads above water as a global pandemic rages on, it's clear that consumers need to find places to spend their money that support equality and a sense of community in their practices.
Here are 9 Black-owned businesses — and resources to help you find Black-owned businesses — that offer the products and services you need.
Black business women leading the way in wellness and coaching
Black business directories
In some areas, it may be easier to find businesses to support during National Black Business Month than it is in others. For example, in Washington DC, 28% of businesses are black-owned according to the Survey of Business Owners.
7. There's a Black-owned business for that
Much like Apple's trademark slogan, there are businesses in the Black community that offer everything you need in everyday life. NBC News rounded up 200 Black-owned businesses to support in 2021 and beyond.
8. Support Black farmers in your community
Whether it's an urban farm like Fresh Future Farm in North Charleston, South Carolina; a community garden like We Sow We Grow in West Pullman, Chicago; traditional farms, local crabbers and shrimpers, foragers, and everything in between — Black Farmers Index lists the largest directory of Black-owned farms in the United States.
9. In 2019, Black women accounted for over 89% of new businesses startups
Among them, are doctors, skincare experts, yogis, business coaches, and many other women making strides and thriving in their businesses. Create Cultivate recently highlighted 99 Black women-owned brands and entrepreneurs you need to know.
