Building Black Business – Supporting Entrepreneurs

Every time you buy from a local Black-owned business, somewhere, an entrepreneur does a happy dance—and we love to see it! Supporting Black businesses isn’t just about shopping; it’s about investing in communities, fostering generational wealth, and ensuring that culture and creativity continue to thrive. This month, we’re diving into why supporting Black businesses is crucial and how we can all play a role in their success.

The Lesson: Every Time You Buy Local, a Small Business Owner Does a Happy Dance

Black entrepreneurship has long been a pillar of resilience and economic empowerment. From historical hubs like Tulsa’s Black Wall Street to today’s thriving Black-owned brands, the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. However, systemic barriers—lack of funding, limited access to resources, and societal biases—often stand in the way.

Supporting Black businesses isn’t charity; it’s a strategic move to create thriving, self-sustaining communities where opportunities flow from generation to generation. It’s about reclaiming economic power and shaping our own future.

The Action: Organize a Local Black Business Showcase or Create a Directory

Want to support Black businesses in your community? Here’s how to get started:

1. Host a Black business showcase: Organize an event featuring local entrepreneurs to introduce their products and services to the community. Bonus points for adding live music and food!

2. Create an online directory: A simple website or social media page highlighting Black-owned businesses can make it easier for people to find and support them.

3. Shop intentionally: Make a conscious effort to redirect your spending to Black-owned brands—whether it’s for groceries, clothing, or services.

4. Collaborate and network: Encourage Black entrepreneurs to partner with one another for mutual growth.

5. Advocate for funding: Use your voice to push for more investment in Black-owned businesses through grants and loans.

The Critical Question: How Can Supporting Small Businesses Benefit Your Entire Community?

Think about it—when you support a local Black business, you’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in job creation, local development, and cultural preservation. What would happen if everyone committed to spending a portion of their income with Black-owned businesses?

How Supporting Black Business Builds Stronger Communities

• Boosts economic independence: Creating more opportunities for financial freedom and wealth-building.

• Preserves cultural identity: Many Black businesses celebrate culture through their products and services.

• Encourages youth entrepreneurship: When young people see successful entrepreneurs in their community, it inspires them to dream big.

• Circulates wealth within the community: Money spent locally stays within the community, strengthening it from within.

Similarities and Differences in African American Culture

Historically, African American communities have relied on informal economies—bartering, mutual aid, and cooperative economics—to survive and thrive in the face of systemic exclusion from mainstream financial institutions. Today, while digital tools and social media have opened new doors for Black entrepreneurs, the core values of community support and self-reliance remain the same.

Younger generations are embracing e-commerce and social media marketing, while older generations continue to emphasize word-of-mouth and personal relationships in business. Both approaches are valuable and can work together to create a powerful support system.

Real Stories: When Support Turns Into Success

Consider the success story of a Black-owned coffee shop in Atlanta that started with a small following and, with community support, expanded to multiple locations, creating jobs and giving back to local schools. Small efforts lead to big changes when a community comes together.

Your Dollar is Your Vote—Spend it Wisely

Whether you’re buying a cup of coffee or hiring a contractor, where you spend your money matters. Let’s make it a priority to uplift Black businesses and ensure they continue to flourish for generations to come.

So, who’s ready to hit up some local Black-owned businesses this week? Let’s make those happy dances happen!