6 Easy Yet Effective Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses

By The Black Business Association of BC

Running a business is never easy because you have various responsibilities, such as managing the staff, marketing, and financial duties. However, it’s arguably harder for minorities and people of colour (POCs) because they still experience racial discrimination today. While it may not seem rampant as it used to be, it still happens. Of course, black-owned businesses are no exception.

Black-owned businesses can be just as successful as any other business, but they still face the challenges that most POCs face. While they may receive support from family, friends, and other black businesses, they still have to deal with discrimination regularly, especially if they face unruly customers. For this reason, they need all the help and support they can get. There are many ways of doing this, such as:

#1 – Make Them Your First Choice

If you’re looking for a specific service or product, you should always try to give black-owned businesses a chance before you decide to buy from anywhere else. If you make them your first choice, they may also reward you with discounts, helping you save more money.

Consequently, you should also encourage others to do the same. The best way to boost a company’s reputation is through word of mouth, and you can do this by telling your friends, family, and other potential customers about them. You can also share their services and products on social media. Even if you don’t buy from them, you can still show your support by sharing or liking their posts.

#2 – Use Black-Owned Business Directories

If you’re interested in finding black-owned businesses in your area, you can use directories. These directories are a quick way for you to find black-owned businesses. These directories contain a comprehensive list of black-owned companies and their contact details. If you’re unsure what kind of black business you’re looking for, you can easily browse their website or app to check out their services and prices.

#3 – Build Relationships with Black Business Owners

Entering business transactions with black-owned businesses is one thing, but building relationships with them is another. Building relationships with black business owners is an excellent way for you to help them succeed. While some may think this is a waste of time, you should know that building a relationship with black business owners can help you in the long run. For example, black-owned business owners can provide you with excellent customer service, which means they can help you resolve issues like customer complaints faster than other businesses.

#4 – Create Partnerships

Partnering with black-owned businesses can be mutually beneficial because you can help each other succeed. If many black-owned businesses are located in rural areas, partnering with them will help you expand your business to other places. Not only that, but you can also help them get more customers by building relationships with other black businesses. For example, if you own a small retail business, you can partner with a black-owned business to boost your marketing efforts.

#5 – Understand Their Struggle

Even though your black business partner may provide outstanding service and offers, you should always understand that a black business owner’s life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Offering your support is great, but you should also listen to their stories. You may not agree with everything they say, but you should still listen. As an entrepreneur, you deserve to be heard, just like they do.

#6 – Always Be Patient

Above all else, you should always be patient with black business owners. If you’re looking for something specific and can’t find it, you have to be patient because it won’t get in the way of experiencing excellent customer service. Remember, every black business owner has struggles, and each one may be unable to provide a service to you at the exact time you want.

Conclusion

Black-owned businesses are like any other business, but they still face many obstacles to success. Supporting them is no different than supporting other businesses, but helping one is a way to help them all. By working with them, you can help them succeed and build better businesses for everyone.

If you’re looking for a black-owned business directory in Vancouver, Black Business Global has what you need! A strong community empowers its members, and we aim to do this through extensive support for the businesses of our brothers and sisters. Simply go to our website to get started!