National Black Business Month
Making the Commitment Count.
National Black Business Month: Making the Commitment Count
Every August, we pause to recognize National Black Business Month. It’s a moment to honor the innovation, resilience and cultural value that Black-owned businesses bring to our communities. But if we’re being real, a month of hashtags and well-meaning spotlights isn’t enough. Supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t just good PR. It’s smart strategy. It’s about investing in sustainability, building stronger ecosystems and shifting power—intentionally and consistently.
Here’s how brands can show up with more than words:
1. Go Beyond the Post: Posting about a Black-owned business once a year isn’t a strategy. Want to make it count? Use your platform to position Black entrepreneurs as collaborators and contributors—not just features in a highlight reel. Share their insights. Quote them in your thought leadership. Let your audience know these partnerships are real and ongoing.
2. Make Equity Part of Your Operations: If your supplier diversity efforts live in a silo, it’s time to rewire. Integrating Black-owned vendors into your supply chain should be standard—not special. That means setting clear criteria, offering fair contract terms and building relationships that support growth over time.
3. Share the Room: Sometimes the most valuable thing you can offer is your access. Referrals, introductions and behind-the-scenes invitations can open doors that funding alone can't. If you’ve had a great experience with a Black-owned business, say their name in rooms they’re not in—yet.
4. Create Together: Sponsorship is fine. Collaboration is better. Invite Black-owned businesses to co-develop campaigns, design activations and build long-term programs. Shared ownership leads to shared value. This is where equity becomes tangible.
5. Be Transparent About Your Impact: If you’re doing the work, talk about it. Share your learnings. Include your support of Black-owned businesses in your reports, team meetings and investor updates. Visibility isn't just external—it strengthens accountability inside your walls too.
Do the Work, Even When It’s Not Trendy
August can be a spark. But lasting change takes year-round intention. The brands making the biggest difference aren’t waiting for a campaign moment—they’re staying in the trenches long after the spotlight fades.
Supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t a seasonal act. It’s a strategic choice. And if done right, it’s a lasting one.
