August is Black Business Month!
August is National Black Business Month, a time to recognize and support Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs across the country. It was created in 2004 when engineer Frederick E. Jordan and historian John William Templeton partnered to o “drive the policy agenda affecting the 2.6 million African-American businesses,” and cultivate greater economic freedom for Black communities. According to the US Federal Reserve, Black entrepreneurs are twice as likely to be turned down for loans as their white counterparts. According to a report from consulting firm McKinsey, only 4% of Black-owned startups remain in operation after 3.5 years. Black-owned businesses are historically underrepresented in the marketplace and that’s why it’s so important to support them and help them thrive. We’ve compiled a list of seven Black-owned HBCU-bred businesses and five non-HBCU businesses to support this National Black Business Month!
HBCU Legacy Fashion
Founded by North Carolina A&T University alumna Cheylaina Fultz, HBCU Legacy Fashion specializes in trendsetting clothing for children of proud HBCU graduates. The fashion brand aims to build awareness and pride and spark interest in obtaining a higher education from an HBCU. Twelve percent of each purchase goes back to the school, giving future HBCU students scholarships for their future HBCU college careers.
Gainz Sports Gear
Gainz Sports Gear is a company that designs and crafts an unrivaled range of robust weight-lifting and cross-training equipment to empower gym enthusiasts. It was founded by Bowie State University graduate Cornell C. Conaway and its mission is to assist customers to make informed decisions in choosing the perfect gym equipment. The company is also known for its HBCU apparel and owns the trademark “HBCU ATHLETE.”
HBCU MADE
HBCU MADE is a clothing and healthcare apparel line founded by North Carolina A&T University alumna and licensed Occupational Therapist LaTia Kirby. After years of working in the healthcare industry, Kirby noticed the lack of diversity in healthcare apparel brands and was inspired to create HBCU MADE. The brand provides a platform for healthcare professionals who have attended or support a Historically Black College or University.
SPGK Watches
Launched by North Carolina A&T University alums, Springbreak (SPGBK) Watches is a designer watch company that provides an amazing variety of impactful, unique, & colorful watches. Their hometown of Fayetteville, North Carolina is a major influence on the brand as each watch and watch band in the collection is symbolic & named in honor of a school or community located in Fayetteville. The name Springbreak comes from the founders’ desire to give the company a scholastic theme, centered around education.
DC Apparel
Founded by two-time HBCU grad, Donecia Abate was inspired by her experiences at Tuskegee University and Prairie View A&M University to create her HBCU apparel brand, Donecia’s Crafts Apparel.
Tones of Melanin
Tones of Melanin is an HBCU apparel brand founded by Norfolk State University alum, Ashley Jones. Tones of Melanin aims to create clothing that brings awareness to HBCUs and is currently available in over 18 HBCU Follett Bookstores across the country. In May, Jones made an appearance on “Shark Tank” making the Tones of Melanin the first-ever HBCU athleisure brand to be pitched on the show. She sealed a deal with Mark Cuban with him investing $300,000 for 12% equity.
Legacy History Pride
Legacy History Pride was founded by Howard University graduate Tahir “Mr. Legacy” Murray. Legacy History Pride is a clothing brand that embodies the richness and uniqueness of HBCUs and Black Culture. A portion of the proceeds the brand makes goes directly back into the schools that they’ve partnered with. Murray hopes the brand can become the face of HBCU lifestyle and fashion.
Naturalistas
Naturalistas, is a sleek line of contemporary natural-hair fashion dolls, created to uplift and celebrate children with coily, curly, and naturally textured hair. Created by the founder of Purpose Toys, DeeDee Wright-Ward, Naturalistas is a Black woman-owned business and the first natural hair fashion doll line sold at major retail stores.
Kitchen Envy
Kitchen Envy is the second business venture of Jai Nice, who is known for her popular fashion brand, Kloset Envy. Kitchen Envy features a variety of kitchen essentials, including custom seasoning blends, Kitchen Envy Cookbooks, knife sets, and more.
You Got Nailed & Spa
You Got Nailed & Spa is a black-owned nail salon located in Greensboro, North Carolina. They execute all types of designs shapes and artistry on nails and toes and are open Tuesday-Saturday from 10-6. To book an appointment visit yougotnailedandspa.com
Cadeau Cafe
Cadeau Cafe is a black-owned cafe located in Fort Myers, Florida. Founded by Wideline Atilard, the business opened in June and has already become a popular spot for the local community. Atilard incorporates her Haitian culture into the drinks, offering cremas, the celebration drink of Haiti. The menu offers a variety of coffees, breakfast items, and lunch items. Cadeau Cafe is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ghetto Girlz Eat
Ghetto Girlz Eat is a food and lifestyle brand founded by entrepreneur and Love and Hip Hop star Sierra Glamshop. Ghetto Girlz Eat features a variety of cookbooks, seasoning blends, and other kitchen essentials.
