Why Investing in Black Businesses Matters More Than Ever
Taniesha Westbrook
January 31, 2025
Why Investing in Black Businesses Matters More Than Ever
For a while, it felt like Black businesses were finally getting the attention and support they deserved. Corporations pledged funding, social media was full of "buy Black" campaigns, and DEI was a major focus.
Now, things are shifting. Companies are pulling back, budgets are being cut, and Black entrepreneurs are seeing fewer opportunities.
That’s why supporting Black businesses can’t be a trend—it has to be a movement.
At Shop Black Fest, we’re not waiting for big corporations to decide whether Black businesses deserve funding. We’re creating real opportunities to help Black entrepreneurs grow.
The DEI Pullback and What It Means for Black Businesses
Companies are scaling back on DEI initiatives, some quietly, others openly. Even political leaders are using DEI as a scapegoat, blaming it for everything from economic struggles to national failures.
What does this mean for Black businesses?
Less funding and fewer corporate dollars going toward Black business initiatives
Less visibility for Black entrepreneurs in major funding and media spaces
More businesses struggling to stay open without consistent customer support
This isn’t about fear—it’s about being prepared. If we want to see Black businesses succeed, we have to take action now.
How We’re Taking Action at Shop Black Fest
Black businesses deserve long-term growth, not just temporary support. That’s why we’re making sure Black entrepreneurs have the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow.
The Black Business Link: A New Way to Get More Customers
Finding Black-owned businesses shouldn’t be hard. That’s why we’re launching The Black Business Link, a directory designed to connect Black entrepreneurs with customers who are ready to buy.
Why Join?
More Visibility – Get your business in front of people looking to support Black-owned brands.
More Sales Opportunities – Be part of a trusted resource that helps customers find and shop with you.
Easy to Use – Set up your listing in minutes and start reaching new buyers.
How to Apply:
The Black Business Link goes live in February, and we’re now accepting applications for businesses that want to be featured.
📌 Apply now to be one of the first businesses listed.
🔗 Submit your application here
If you’re serious about getting seen, getting customers, and growing your business, this is your chance to be part of something big. Don’t miss it!
Shop Black University: Helping Vendors Sell More and Grow Beyond Pop-Ups
Most small businesses don’t fail because their products aren’t good. They fail because they don’t have the right strategy to grow.
That’s why we launched Shop Black University, giving vendors and entrepreneurs the tools to:
Sell more at events and online
Set prices that actually make a profit
Keep customers coming back
Grow beyond pop-ups and one-time sales
Black businesses need more than motivation—they need real strategies that work.
Beyond the Booth Accelerator: Fully Funded Growth for Vendors
We partnered with Pinnacle Bank to give 10 vendors a fully funded program designed to help them grow.
This isn’t just a class—it’s real support that includes:
Free product photography and a brand shoot so vendors can market their business professionally
Website support so they’re not just selling at pop-ups but online too
Sales and business strategy coaching because vending without a plan isn’t sustainable
Black vendors deserve more than just a booth at an event—they deserve a clear path to long-term success.
Cool Girls Create: Helping Black Women Monetize Their Creativity
Black women are starting businesses at the highest rate, but they receive the least funding, the least support, and the highest levels of burnout. Many creative entrepreneurs are juggling passion, profit, and personal life—without a clear roadmap to make it all work.
That’s where Cool Girls Create comes in.
We’re helping Black women turn their creativity into real, sustainable income—without feeling overwhelmed or stuck in survival mode.
Here’s how we’re making that happen:
Workshops and training on pricing, marketing, and making money without burnout
Ready-to-use business tools like pricing guides, customer follow-up templates, and marketing plans
A real community of creative women who are growing together
Live events and meetups for networking, collaboration, and growth
This isn’t just about business—it’s about building a life that supports your creativity, your goals, and your financial future.
Shop Black Fest 2025: Bigger, Better, and Built for Growth
This year’s Shop Black Fest Tour is expanding to bring:
More vendors, more customers, and bigger sales opportunities
Live entertainment and cultural experiences that highlight Black excellence
Exclusive giveaways and perks for attendees
This isn’t just a festival—it’s a movement that connects Black entrepreneurs with the communities that will help them grow.
How You Can Support Black Businesses Today
Buying Black isn’t just about shopping—it’s about building economic power.
Here’s how you can be part of the movement:
Support Black-owned businesses regularly, not just on special occasions
Share, review, and recommend Black businesses to others
Partner with us—whether you’re a vendor looking to grow or a business looking to collaborate, there’s a place for you here
Shop Black Fest, Shop Black University, Beyond the Booth, and Cool Girls Create aren’t about waiting for opportunities. We’re building them.
If you want to see Black businesses grow, now is the time to get involved.