February is Black History Month, and I wanted to take some time to highlight why supporting Black-owned businesses is so important. Recognizing and supporting black small businesses is an actionable step toward building a more equitable and thriving economy and promoting social justice through:

1. Economic Empowerment: Small businesses, including those owned by black entrepreneurs, are the backbone of the economy. When we support these businesses, we help to create jobs and economic growth in our communities. By recognizing and supporting black-owned small businesses, we can help to close the racial wealth gap and promote economic empowerment for marginalized communities.
2. Diversity and Representation: Black small business owners are an important part of the business community, and their perspectives and experiences are valuable. By recognizing their contributions and promoting their businesses, we can help to create a more diverse and representative business landscape.
3. Social Justice: Black-owned businesses have historically faced discrimination and barriers to success, including limited access to capital and resources. By supporting black small businesses, we can help to level the playing field and promote social justice.
4. Cultural Preservation: Black small businesses often reflect and celebrate the culture and history of black communities. By supporting these businesses, we can help to preserve and promote the unique cultural heritage of these communities.

There are many successful and inspiring black entrepreneurs who are making significant contributions to various industries. Here are just a few of them:

1. Tristan Walker – He is the founder and CEO of Walker & Company, which creates health and beauty products for people of color. He is also the founder of CODE2040, a nonprofit organization that aims to increase diversity in the tech industry.
2. Kisha Mays – She is the founder and CEO of Just Fearless, a global business consulting firm that helps companies expand into new markets. She has worked with a variety of high-profile clients, including Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, and Mercedes-Benz. You can heat her interview with Beyond 8 Figures here, and get her best for an entrepreneur who wants to build a $10M buisness.
3. Rodney Williams – He is the founder and CEO of LISNR, a technology company that uses ultrasonic audio technology to connect devices. LISNR has received funding from major investors like Intel and Visa.
4. Chris Bennett – He is the co-founder and CEO of Wonderschool, a platform that helps parents find and book affordable and high-quality childcare. Bennett was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list in 2018. You may watch one of his TED talks here.
5. Melinda Emerson – I would be remiss not to include someone I admire, Melinda Emerson. We have a lot in common in that we have the same mission – to help small businesses thrive. But, Melinda is known as the “SmallBizLady”and is America’s #1 Small Business Expert. She is an internationally renowned author, keynote speaker on small business development, social selling, and online marketing strategy.

These are just a few examples of black entrepreneurs who are making waves in their industries. There are many more out there, and it’s worth keeping an eye on the new and exciting businesses they’re building.

Let this month act as a reminder to contribute to the economy by supporting Black-owned businesses. Do you have a favorite Black entrepreneur or Black-owned business? Tell me in the comments!

Here’s to supporting our fellow entrepreneurs everywhere!

Wishing you health and wealth.

-Mike