August has numerous significant monthly awareness themes, encompassing eye health and family entertainment, but there’s one you shouldn’t overlook: Black Business Month. Established in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr., this month is committed to showcasing the outstanding contributions of Black-owned businesses.
John William Templeton imparting his ‘Our Roots Run Deep’ series to students.
To commemorate Black Business Month, we decided to feature some Black-owned businesses thriving in their respective sectors and making a positive impact on their communities. Black-owned businesses represent 10% of all U.S. companies and 30% of all minority-owned businesses. That translates to over 2 million Black businesses! While it’s impossible to include all of them, here are a few exemplary trailblazers. Let’s delve in.
P.S: For a wealth of information on diversity, equity, and inclusion in marketing, check out the statistics available here.
8 Black-owned businesses that serve as true inspiration
Operating as a minority-owned business presents unique obstacles, but these Black-owned businesses have not let that deter them from chasing their aspirations, attaining success, and inspiring others within their communities.
1. Black Girl Sunscreen
As August coincides with Summer Sun Awareness Month, it seems fitting to commence our list with the brand Black Girl Sunscreen.. Sunscreen has gained a reputation for leaving a white film and streaks on the skin. That is, of course, until Shontay Lunday established Black Girl Sunscreen in 2016. Black Girl Sunscreen is a transparent, fast-drying SPF lotion specifically formulated to safeguard melanin-rich skin. Within its initial six years, Black Girl Sunscreen has experienced remarkable expansion and is now available at both Target and Ulta Beauty stores.
2. Frugal Bookstore
Frugal Bookstore holds the distinction of being the sole Black-owned bookstore in Boston, Massachusetts, and it boasts the city’s most extensive collection of books by Black authors. As a family-owned and operated establishment, the Frugal Bookstore takes pride in its community-oriented approach to bookselling. In fact, their motto, “Changing Minds One Book At A Time,” exemplifies their commitment, and they regularly share Frugal Friday Facts that spotlight influential Black figures throughout history.
The owners of Frugal Bookstore, Leonard and Clarissa Egerton
3. Crowns & Hops
Situated in Inglewood, California, Crown & Hops stands out as one of the few Black-owned breweries in the region. Co-founders Teo Hunter and Beny Ashburn meticulously craft each beer to embody themes rooted in Black history and culture. Furthermore, they established the 8 Trill Pils fund in collaboration with their partners, BrewDog, to invest $100,000 back into Black-owned breweries.
4. Inclusive Data Solutions
Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Inclusive Data Solutions is a professional services firm that has partnered with nonprofits, government entities, and private sector organizations to secure $18 million in grants for Black individuals within local communities. Shaun Glaze, the Chief Consulting Officer, openly embraces their identity as a data enthusiast. Combining this passion with their commitment to social justice, Inclusive Data Solutions assists businesses in effectively connecting with target audiences in a meaningful way. For instance, Shaun and the team at Inclusive Data Solutions provide answers to inquiries such as, “What insights can you share about People of Color (POC) residing in this area?” or “Is there data available to help us address disparities affecting these communities?”
Inclusive Data Chief Consulting Officer Shaun Glaze
5. Funderburg Law, LLC
Numerous law firms specialize in various legal areas, such as entertainment law, business law, trademarks and copyrights, or estate planning. However, Funderburg Law, an Atlanta-based boutique law firm, distinguishes itself through its local and individualized approach to “championing the underdog.” Lerae Funderburg, the founder and managing partner, explains that many of her clients share similarities with her: they are proud Black women and mothers.
Lerae Funderburg, Esq. of Funderburg Law
6. Sparkle & Shine Family Dentistry
Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Sparkle & Shine Family Dentistry is dedicated to restoring the brilliance of its patients’ smiles. Beyond providing top-tier dental care, Sparkle & Shine actively engages with its community by organizing and taking part in local events, distributing complimentary items like school supplies, actively promoting Black historical figures in dentistry, and much more.
The 7. Ani Real Estate
Ani Real Estate, situated in Chicago, Illinois, is a commercial and residential real estate agency that takes immense pride in its all-Black team of skilled brokers and realtors. Moreover, Lutalo McGee, the owner and designated managing broker of Ani Real Estate, actively participates in the Chicago Association of Realtors’ 77 Diversity Committee and chairs the Illinois Realtor’s Discriminatory Appraisal Task Force.
The 8. Ask the Right Handyman
Randy and Tyra, a husband-and-wife duo based in Phoenix, Arizona, established ATR Handman in 2020 amidst the pandemic. Driven by a passion for transforming houses into beloved homes, they specialize in residential construction and electrical services.
Extend your support to Black Businesses this month and beyond
While Black Business Month is observed in August, it’s crucial to support Black-owned businesses year-round to foster genuine diversity and inclusion in your everyday life. For a starting point, explore our insightful post on diversity, equity, and inclusion resources specifically curated for small businesses. Happy Black Business Month!