Every August, celebrating Black Business Month gives us a chance to acknowledge all that Black businesses contribute to our communities and our world.
The History
Historically, the first African American/Black-Owned Business in the US dates back to 1881 with E.E. Ward Moving & Storage. However, Black Business Month wasn't recognized until 2004, thanks to the historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr. The idea behind the month’s creation was to present an opportunity to “drive policy agenda… supporting Black-Owned Business”, and has grown to include a call to patronize Black and African American businesses.
The Present
Primarily, we know that economically empowering and sustaining communities begins with small businesses. Moreover, we recognize that small businesses are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods. At Business Impact NW, we believe business ownership allows people to build wealth and create a living wage for themselves while supporting their families and communities. Yet, Black-owned small businesses account for only about 2 million of the over 30 million small businesses in the United States. In other words, there is much more opportunity to be had.
Into the Future
At Business impact NW are proud to continually support Black and African American small business owners. From free classes, to one-on-one coaching, business trainings, and funding opportunities - we are proud to provide these essentials for any aspiring or growing entrepreneur.
With this in mind, as we celebrate the ingenuity and imagination of Black Business owners this month, we invite you to support the Black-owned businesses in your community with your dollars in August and throughout the year.
To learn more about Black Business Month, follow this link and find more resources here.
To learn about the first African American/Black Business in the United States, follow this link here.
