Celebrate Diversity: August Is National Black Business Month
By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura
July 19, 2024
Now is the time to recognize the overwhelming economic impact of the Black-owned business. The influence of an entrepreneur’s success story is apparent in his or her impenetrable brand and capability of fulfilling a need, or void, in the marketplace. Many would immediately recognize the names of wildly popular conglomerates such as Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, World Wide Technology, and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Representing 10% of all businesses in the United States, and 30% of minority businesses nationwide, what are the prospects for profitability among small business owners?
As access to capital increases among Black business owners, the future of growth and development continues to paint a promising picture. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy, Black-owned businesses account for 3.5 million companies in the nation and more than 1.2 million jobs in competitive industries such as retail, education, finance, hospitality, and technology. For the past 20 years, institutions and professionals acknowledge National Black Business Month in August, urging consumers everywhere to recognize the past and current contributions of Black-owned operations as they catalyze immense wealth within the global economy. Moreover, such companies also promote inclusionary measures paving the way for diverse employees to not only make a comfortable living but achieve economic prosperity.
Given Aventura’s solid foundation for inclusive business representation throughout the city, here’s a list of ways in which locals and tourists alike can support Black-owned companies and brands during National Black Business Month:
Curate a list of Black-owned businesses to support in the month of August, and beyond. Look within the City of Aventura – and adjacent Miami-Dade County neighborhoods in general – to support some Black-owned gems. The lively flavor of Black-owned businesses contributes to the multicultural landscape that is apparent all around us, enlivening our communities with diverse perspectives that affect the way in which we experience South Florida. Local culinary haunts are plentiful and provide options to satiate various palates, such as the Jamaican-infused Jrk! located in Aventura Mall’s Treats Food Hall, Smith & Webster Restaurant and Bar’s elevated Southern and American cuisine, and The Krazy Vegan’s delectable plant-based comfort food items.
Align yourself with retailers that advocate for The Fifteen Percent Pledge during National Black Business Month. Since Black Americans compose 15% of the United States population, corporations are asked to fill 15% of their shelf and inventory space with merchandise from Black-owned brands through their commitment to the Pledge. For instance, Nordstrom Aventura has joined the charge to promote a more equitable playing field for Black-owned creators to grow, thrive, and showcase their products in mainstream spaces by spotlighting a special merchandise display at their location from Monday, August 19th, 2024, to Wednesday, August 21st, 2024. Residents are encouraged to visit and purchase products from featured brands during this showcase.
Refer to the Miami Black Business Guide to find an array of Black-owned shops, hotels, restaurants, and services. Updated annually, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau publishes a listing of hundreds of establishments catering to tourists and individuals seeking an authentic in-town experience, plus groups who are planning on hosting upcoming weddings, corporate meetings, and organizational conferences in the area.
LOVE, AVENTURA.
A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community.