Highlighting Black-owned enterprises consistently throughout the year

In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, Black business owners often face unique challenges, one of which is a documented racial wealth gap that limits their access to funding from family and friends. However, initiatives like National Black Business Month in August, which celebrates and recognises the needs for growth of Black businesses and entrepreneurs, are working to change this narrative.

Kathi Williams, co-owner of Onyx Sweet Shoppe in Downtown Phoenix, is a strong advocate for the media's role in showcasing how businesses contribute to the community and an entrepreneur's innovation. According to Williams, exposure and the quality of exposure matter greatly for businesses. In fact, her media coverage has brought in a significant number of customers.

Renee King, the owner of crowdfunding website Fund Black Founders, echoes Williams' sentiments. Her platform allows Black entrepreneurs to run campaigns to raise capital for their businesses. King believes journalists can help these entrepreneurs by providing a platform for them to speak for themselves and document their part in shaping the economic landscape of the U.S.

Journalists can also go beyond providing statistics and help find solutions to the underlying issues faced by Black entrepreneurs. This can involve consistent coverage of their successes, as well as the challenges they face. Small Business Saturday, the Saturday following Black Friday in November, is another time to provide additional coverage for Black-owned small businesses and encourage the public to shop local.

Moreover, journalists can reach out to their network for help if a Black entrepreneur is struggling, such as with acquiring funding or operating their business. King, for instance, provides business coaching sessions through her company.

In 2020, several prominent companies pledged millions to invest in Black-owned businesses, following the rise of Black Lives Matter and heightened racial tensions. To help keep these corporations accountable, it's important to check to see which ones in your local area made a pledge, and reach out to them to see if they're on track with fulfilling their promise.

Kathi Williams emphasises the importance of getting to the real story behind a business and understanding their purpose. By doing so, journalists can help Black entrepreneurs tell their stories, inspire others, and drive positive change in their communities.