According to Forbes, Black women were the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the United States—despite being underfunded, but then COVID hit. The pandemic has been a major challenge to small businesses, forcing many to pivot and/or shut down. But we have the power to help. People who are still in a position to shop should consider patronizing small businesses, particularly those owned and operated by Black women.
Here’s a list of eight Black women-owned businesses to support.
Khalia Collier – St. Louis Surge
Khalia Collier is making waves in the world of sports by empowering women and girls to get more involved in the industry—behind the scenes and in power positions. Khalia is the owner and general manager of the St. Louis Surge, the professional women’s basketball team out of St. Louis, Missouri. Khalia, who began playing basketball at a young age, purchased the Surge in her early 20s and made history as the youngest sports team owner in the country—at any level. Now in her early 30s, Collier encourages players on her team to pursue degrees no matter what. Coronavirus may have sidelined in-person games, but you can keep up with the team on social media.
Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo, Owner — African Health Now and Fourth Phase Box
Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo is a mompreneur and renaissance woman who transitioned from working in New York City media to maternal health advocacy for women and children. She’s the president of African Health Now, a non-profit organization that provides free health screenings, breast cancer education, dental care, nutrition education, and more for women and children based in Ghana. She’s also the co-founder of Fourth Phase Box, a newly launched company that provides post-birth boxes containing non-toxic self-care and personal hygiene products for new moms. Nana is helping to create better health outcomes for Black women in the U.S. and abroad.
Trudy Midkiff – Ruby Rae Society
Ruby Rae Society was founded by Trudy Midkiff, a mompreneur who felt that she wanted to see more representation for young Black children in educational materials. The newly launched company provides an array of books, flashcards, stickers, and more, featuring little brown girls in various professions—scientists, doctors, ballerinas and beyond!
Joi – Mahogany Mommies
Joi (known by her mononym) is a high school teacher and owner of Mahogany Mommies. After spending time teaching entrepreneurship classes to her students, she decided to create an apparel line that celebrates Black culture and promotes positivity and abundance. Last year, Joi crossed the six-figure milestone just a few months after launching. She continues to grow her business and share her inspiring story.
Trina Small – Super Mom Culture
Super Mom Culture is a streetwear line founded by mom and lifestyle blogger, Trina Small. Trina, the stylish mom of two girls, created hoodies, t-shirts, sweatpants, and hats geared toward moms who want to keep it cute and comfy. There are products with fathers in mind as well.
Nzingha – Inclusive Randomness
Inclusive Randomness is for all the “Black girls who never saw their name on gift store keychains.” This line of buttons, stickers, and enamel pins features a range of cute images, phrases, and designs that celebrate Black culture with an emphasis on Black women. Custom buttons are also available.
Emijaa Jaaemil – Emijaa Jaaemil handcrafts
Emijaa Jaaemil handcrafts a stunning array of headwraps, turbans, scrunchies, masks, jewelry, and bows for all the fashionistas who know that accessories are more fun when you switch them up. Jaaemil’s original pieces are available in a variety of statement-making prints and colors, so it’s easy to dress up any outfit.
Trini Gee – The Trinigee
Trini’s Etsy shop The Trinigee is perfectly described as products infused with melanin and culture. The line ranges from t-shirts and sweatshirts to everyday accessories like mugs, phone cases, blankets, and more. It features classic Black pop culture from TV and film to icons of Black Excellence. All highlighting joyful and positive Black images for adults and children.
