August is Black Business Month here in the US, and it is a time to specifically recognize and support the contributions of Black-owned businesses. While Black-owned companies account for $183 billion in revenue, they are still underfunded and Black business owners are underrepresented in entrepreneurial spaces. This month, you can support Black businesses in a variety of ways.
Due to a lack of representation, as is the case with most minority groups, your support requires a level of intentionality that you may not have in your everyday life. While your patronage of Black-owned businesses is not the end-all solution for years of oppressive and discriminatory institutional practices--your purposeful support can (and does) make a difference in the lives of the business owners and entrepreneurs you support.
Seek Out Directories Highlighting Black Businesses
One quick, focused Google search can point you in the direction of directories designed to connect consumers with businesses that are founded and operated by Black people. And while Blacks in the US are under-represented en masse-- don’t allow that to trick you into thinking that there are no Black-owned options for what you are seeking. Black people own hotels, coffee shops, wedding planning companies, staffing agencies, bookstores, and the list goes on! A directory can be an easy way to narrow your search and find a business in your area.
Opt for a Black-Owned Version of Your Favorites
You may be the kind of business owner who starts every day with a cup of coffee. If you make your coffee at home, there are a variety of Black-owned coffee companies that you can find in-store or order from directly online. Whatever your daily go-to's or frequent faves, chances are you can find a Black-owned version of it, some Black-owned/founded versions of your favorites might include lipstick, scheduling apps, financial literacy apps, and so much more!
Use Your Influence to Promote Black-Owned Businesses and Entrepreneurs on Social Media
A few years ago, when I got married, we worked with Black business owners for everything--from my custom wedding dress to catering, to day-of coordination, tuxedo rentals, hair and makeup, bridal party gifts, DJ, photography, flora design I could go on. When our wedding was over, I was sure to share and shout out the names and company pages of our vendors across my social media! Something so simple can lead to new sales and connections for Black business owners as they seek to expand their businesses and get new customers. You may not be “an influencer,” but never doubt that you have influence! Your stamp of approval can be all the validation someone needs to purchase from a Black-owned business. Word-of-mouth is still the most powerful marketing tool there is, so don’t let the support of these businesses stop with you--share your experience!
Remember, you don’t have to be Black to support Black-owned businesses--you just have to be intentional.
At Jali Creatives, we specialize in Content, Design, and Strategy for service-based businesses launched and led by Black and Brown women and other POCs. Our clients include law firms, accounting firms, coaches, and consultants. Not only do we value sharing the stories of these companies through our services--we also believe in buying from them too!
If you’re a Black business owner looking to maximize opportunities such as Black Business Month, but you’re not quite sure how--let us help you! Schedule a quick chat and let’s discuss your marketing challenges and how our team can help you tell your story through strategic marketing.
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