7 Ways You Can Support Black-Owned Businesses
Nearly a fifth of businesses don’t make it through their first year, and the odds are even worse for black business owners. Without the same level of connections, resources, and financial assets, it can be difficult to succeed. Here’s how you can best support black-owned businesses throughout the year, according to owners themselves.
1. Engage on Social Media
Businesses can reach a wider audience and promote their brand more effectively by being active on social media and interacting with brands.
If you’re active on social media, take a moment to show support for Black-owned businesses by liking or commenting on their posts. Hashtags can be a great way to find these businesses. Many posts include a call to action, such as sharing the post or retweeting the message. Don’t just keep scrolling—take action!
2. Buy from Black-Owned Businesses
One of the best ways you can support black-owned businesses is by buying their products. This not only puts money in their pockets but also shows loyalty to the company. Buying from black-owned businesses is a great way to help them succeed.
There are several websites that provide lists of black-owned businesses. These businesses cater to a variety of needs, so there is likely to be a black-owned business that can provide what you are looking for.
3. Write Positive Reviews
Most customers use reviews to help them decide whether or not a product is worth purchasing. If you had a good experience with a product or service, writing a review on a platform like Yelp, Google, or Etsy can help boost a company’s visibility. It’s best to write a review that contains two to three sentences about the product or service, including what you liked about it and who could benefit from the product/service.
4. Refer Them to a Friend
Tell your friends and family about it if you have had a good experience with a black-owned business! This is often more effective than leaving an online review, as people know they can trust you, to be honest.
5. Collaborate with Them
Collaborating with other businesses is a great way to grow your customer base. If you know a Black-owned business with a similar customer base to yours, it can be beneficial to work together. If you have a large online following, you can connect with a Black-owned business and introduce your followers to their products or services.
6. Be Discreet about Negative Reviews
If you have had a bad experience with a company, you should contact them directly to tell them about it. You can help them improve their service without damaging their reputation online.
7. Offer Mentorship and Resources
If you have expertise in an area that Black-owned businesses operate, consider sharing your knowledge with them. This could be through grants, pro bono services, or simply sharing helpful information you come across. By doing so, you can help these businesses grow and become more successful.
Conclusion
There are many reasons to support black-owned businesses. By doing so, we can help to close the wealth gap and create opportunities for black entrepreneurs. Additionally, we can help to promote black-owned businesses to a broader audience and support the local black community.
Black Business Global supports entrepreneurs and small businesses in Canada through education, mentorship, and leadership development. Find restaurants, stores, and a variety of different establishments, all founded by Black entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to find a Black-owned business quickly—perhaps in time for take-out dinner tonight—this useful online resource can help. This Black-owned business directory is your way to find the best and most deserving entrepreneurs to support! Browse online now!
