National Black Business Month has rewards for the entire community

Every year, Black Business Month is celebrated and recognized across the country in the month of August. Thanks to two gentlemen, it is now considered to be nationally recognized. It all started in 2004, when the collaboration between Historian John William Templeton and Engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr., saw the need to empower black business owners.

The overall goal of the two gentlemen was to leverage to the rest of America that black businesses had economic power. They wanted to "drive the policy agenda" that affected close to 3 million Black businesses at the time. According to the latest census (2020), it was estimated that there are about 135,000 Black-African American owned businesses. It is known that the number continues to grow and many businesses were seen being birthed due to the pandemic. In some ways, the pandemic gave people the time to venture into business ownership.

Did you know in America, Black businesses are underrepresented? They only account for 2.4% of all businesses, despite the fact that Blacks represent about 13% of the total US population, according to http://www.lendingtree.com. For some people reading this article, the statistics maybe shocking but, they correlate to many other statistics that involve Blacks in this country.

Locally here in Detroit, there are more than 49,000 Black owned businesses and the number continues to grow. However, what is interesting is that 80% make up small businesses in the city of Detroit. You may have asked yourself the question, "What does supporting Black businesses do for the community?" Research shows that it allows for building of economic power by, generating monies that will continue to stay and circulate throughout the Black Community.

We spoke with native Detroiter, Maquela Mingo, who is the owner of A'mia Marie Hair Studio in Metro Detroit. She gave great advice for those looking to step into the role of entrepreneurship. She also expressed what Black Business Month means to her.

Clifton: What does Black Business Month mean to you?

Maquela, Owner: It means to go out and support Black business, all types of businesses.

Clifton: How does it feel to be a business owner?

Maquela, Owner: It feels good because, you have the freedom and flexibility to set my own schedule. As a young African-American woman, it feels good!

Clifton: What advice would you give someone who is thinking about starting their own business?

Maquela, Owner: I would share with them to take as many classes as they can about entrepreneurship. That way, you will become knowledgeable as a business owner.

Clifton: What is one lesson that you have learned since being a business owner?

Maquela, Owner: Consistency is key! If you stay consistent then you will always have customers or clients.

Yes, the month of August is almost over but, you still have time to support your local black business, whether big or small. In fact, your support doesn't just have to begin and end with the month of August but Black businesses need your support all year round.

How are you going to recognize Black Business Month? Will you decide to make a purchase within the next few days from a Black owned company? Did you know that support comes in more ways than one? You can also support with your social media and using word-by-mouth with your friends and family. Let others know of the new business you've come across. That too is showing your support.

Look at the month of August now, nationally recognized and it all started with two black men that had a common goal and vision. Let the history behind Black Business Month, be an inspiration to you! Go after your dreams and goals of being that business owner, it can happen for you too!