15 Black-Owned Businesses to Support During Black History Month (and Every Day!)

Black History Month was created as a celebration of the accomplishments of Black Americans. It has a contentious history and present. Devoting only one month, and the shortest one at that, to the contributions Black Americans have made to our country and culture is inadequate, and the wrongs America has inflicted on them are routinely ignored. That is highlighted this year, as the ongoing panic over critical race theory has led to fascistic book banning(Opens in a new window), removing Black writers(Opens in a new window) from the curriculum for African-American history classes, and trying to overturn Black History Month(Opens in a new window) itself.

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But American corporations are only too glad to hop on the Black History Month bandwagon for capitalism’s sake, sometimes resulting in cringe efforts(Opens in a new window). Meanwhile, American culture co-opts much from the Black community, and instead of giving back, dollars are diverted from Black businesses, and entire market categories ignore the needs of Black consumers(Opens in a new window). Black-owned businesses saw a spike in sales a couple of years ago, but since then, consumer interest has faded(Opens in a new window), and they are in need of wider support.

While one month of shopping is not going to undo endemic injustice, it is a time to become more aware of the power of the dollar and the variety of choices we have when we spend it. We’ve put together this list of Black-owned businesses with products and services available online that can help you make better buying decisions and better your life. We encourage you to make more culturally conscious buying decisions this month and throughout the year. And for more stories related to Black History Month, please visit our Amplify page.

1. Chic Geeks

Your electronics can make their way through life au naturel, or they can be chic. Chic Geeks(Opens in a new window) makes cases and coverings for MacBooks(Opens in a new window), iPhones(Opens in a new window), webcams(Opens in a new window), and even keyboards(Opens in a new window).

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2. Blapp

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The Blapp(Opens in a new window) app puts people in touch with the Black-owned businesses around them and online. It lists accountants, attorneys, barbers, dentists, financial services, florists, hair stylists, nail specialists, real estate agents, skincare specialists, therapists, and pet care services on a location-based map and powered by Yelp reviews. There’s also a product section with art, books, clothes, accessories, and more.

3. Hairbrella

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Rain can ruin a lot of things, including your ‘do. Hairbrella(Opens in a new window) solves that problem by protecting hair in a way that an umbrella could never hope to. The ingenious design of the original has gotten a COVID-inspired makeover with extended protection in the form of a face shield(Opens in a new window). There’s also a great satin-lined vegan trapper hat (pictured) that’s perfect for winter.

4. SW&G Essentials

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Everybody could use some spa time, but sometimes your local spa (read: bathroom) is the most convenient for your schedule. Stock up on some supplies from SW&G Essentials(Opens in a new window), such as this loofah-infused soap(Opens in a new window) and these refreshing aloe under-eye masks(Opens in a new window).

5. The Lit Bar

The number of bookstores (not just independent bookstores but any bookstores) in the outer boroughs of New York has dwindled so much that some just have one. The Bronx had none after a Barnes & Noble closed, and that’s when The Lit Bar(Opens in a new window) came to be. As book bans hit schools across the country(Opens in a new window) and local libraries are defunded by the far right(Opens in a new window), children increasingly can’t access their favorites. Bookstores remain a haven. And you can shop online at this one, too.

6. Ailey Extension

Whether you’ve been dancing for years or are an absolute beginner, Ailey Extension(Opens in a new window) keeps you on your toes. The program is part of famed dancer/choreographer and activist Alvin Ailey’s legacy. Although the classes used to be available only to those in New York, they’re now also conducted by Zoom(Opens in a new window). They are dance-centric but not dance-exclusive. 

7. Puzzle Huddle

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Puzzles arguably have never fallen out of favor, but the pandemic propelled a new surge in puzzle popularity. Puzzle Huddle(Opens in a new window) offers lots of colorful, cheerful puzzles for kids of all ages. The Ada Twist Scientist collection(Opens in a new window) is a particular delight. 

8. Celsious

Celsious(Opens in a new window) is as stylish as a neighborhood laundromat gets. If you can’t have the in-person experience, don’t get in a lather; its phenomenal, eco-friendly products are available online(Opens in a new window) too. 

9. Blk & Bold

That hot beverage you like to treat yourself to from the local coffee shop might not be an everyday purchase in the current economy, but with Blk & Bold(Opens in a new window), you can become your own barista. The shop sells coffee and tea blends and it has a subscription service, so you can stay fully stocked. 

10. Beauty Bakerie

Who doesn’t love a happy store? Beauty Bakerie(Opens in a new window) is one. Founder Cashmere Nicole(Opens in a new window) was a single mom at 16, put herself through nursing school, made it through breast cancer, and somehow managed to create a multimillion-dollar beauty empire. Its dessert-themed aesthetic is delicious.

11. EatOkra

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When you need a break from cooking and want to dine out, or you’re looking for delivery and takeout options, you can use EatOkra(Opens in a new window) to support Black-owned restaurants in your own neighborhood. It has nearly 10,000 nationwide listings.

12. Styleseat

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Finding a hairstylist who has experience with Black hair can be a challenge, even for models(Opens in a new window) and actors(Opens in a new window). Whether you need a cut or styling, Styleseat(Opens in a new window) can connect you to professionals who are skilled and experienced at working with natural hair, locs, silk presses, and more.

13. Clare

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For beautiful paint colors that contain no VOCs, and to get everything you need for a painting project delivered to your door, Clare(Opens in a new window) has it all. You can even get peel-and-stick swatches of colors you’re considering.

14. A Dozen Cousins

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Beans have been having a moment(Opens in a new window)—a moment that’s lasted a few years now. At A Dozen Cousins(Opens in a new window), delicious seasoned beans(Opens in a new window) are the brand’s specialty and are sold alongside rice and sauces. You can buy them online or find them at a local store(Opens in a new window).

15. Shady Side Up

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For sunglasses that stand out, check out Shady Side Up(Opens in a new window). They have reasonably priced, exceedingly stylish sunnies and a playlist(Opens in a new window) to go along with them.