Supporting Black-Owned Businesses: How to Make a Difference

In light of recent events, many people have been looking for ways to support the Black community. One important way to do this is by supporting Black-owned businesses. However, it’s not enough to only show support during times of crisis–supporting Black-owned companies should be a year-round effort. Here are simple ways to make a difference:

Do Your Research

Finding Black-owned businesses may take a little bit of effort, but it is an essential step in supporting them. Start by doing some research online. There are many directories and websites that list Black-owned businesses in various industries. These websites can help you find businesses in your local area that you can support. 

You can also ask friends and family members for recommendations. Once you have a list of businesses, keep it handy. You can save it on your phone or make a list on paper so that you can easily access it when you are looking for products or services.

Shop at Black-Owned Businesses

Once you have found some Black-owned businesses that you are interested in supporting, it is time to start shopping. This may require making some changes to your shopping habits. For example, you may choose to buy your groceries at a Black-owned grocery store, purchase gifts from a Black-owned boutique, or get your hair done at a Black-owned salon. 

Keep in mind that supporting Black-owned businesses does not mean only shopping at them once in a while–it means making a conscious effort to choose them over other options whenever possible. By doing so, you are helping to create a sustainable customer base for these businesses.

Spread the Word

Word of mouth is a powerful tool that can help increase the visibility of Black-owned businesses. Share your experiences with others and encourage them to check out the companies that you have discovered. You can also share information about Black-owned businesses on social media using hashtags like #BuyBlack or #BlackOwnedBusiness. 

By spreading the word, you are helping to increase the visibility of these businesses and making it easier for others to support them as well. If you have a blog or website, consider writing a post about your favourite Black-owned businesses.

Attend Black-Owned Business Events

Many Black-owned businesses host events throughout the year, ranging from pop-up shops to networking events. These events are a great opportunity to not only support the company but also to connect with other members of the community who are interested in supporting Black-owned businesses. 

Keep an eye out for events in your area and make an effort to attend them whenever possible. You can also follow Black-owned businesses on social media to stay up-to-date on their events.

Volunteer Your Time and Skills

Another way to support Black-owned businesses is by volunteering your time and skills. This can mean offering to help with social media or marketing, assisting with events, or providing advice and mentorship to the business owners themselves. By sharing your expertise and resources, you are helping Black-owned businesses grow and succeed. 

If you are a graphic designer or writer, for example, you could offer to create marketing materials or write blog posts for a Black-owned business. If you are a business owner yourself, you could provide mentorship to a Black-owned business owner who is just starting out.

Takeaway

In conclusion, supporting Black-owned businesses is a crucial way to make a difference in the Black community. By doing your research, shopping at Black-owned businesses, spreading the word, attending events, and volunteering your time and skills, you can help these businesses thrive year-round. 

Remember, supporting Black-owned businesses is not a one-time gesture–it’s a commitment to making a lasting difference. By supporting these businesses, you are not only contributing to the economic success of the Black community but also helping to create a more equitable society.

Are you interested in learning more about black businesses in Canada? Check out Black Business Global, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in Canada through education, mentorship, and leadership development. View our directory!