By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Every August, National Black Business Month recognizes the enduring contributions of Black entrepreneurs, and the essential role Black-owned businesses play in driving economic growth, creating jobs and strengthening communities across the country.
Established in 2004 by engineering entrepreneur Fredrick E. Jordan and historian and publisher John William Templeton, the observance celebrates the achievements of Black business owners while raising awareness of the systemic barriers that continue to limit equitable access to capital, resources and growth opportunities. The month also honors a rich legacy of Black entrepreneurship spanning more than two centuries—a legacy shaped by resilience, innovation and determination in the face of adversity.
Today, National Black Business Month serves as both a celebration of the success and impact of Black-owned businesses and a call to action for organizations, communities and consumers to invest and support Black entrepreneurs whose leadership continues to fuel a more inclusive and stronger economy.
Engage in the workplace
Whether through intentional purchasing, education or community engagement, organizations can create meaningful opportunities for employees and organizations to engage with, invest in and celebrate Black-owned businesses while strengthening local economies.
One way to increase awareness of local businesses is by creating a shared resource that highlights and organizes them by categories (e.g., restaurants, coffee shops, professional services, retail, wellness, etc.). A digital version, such as a shared spreadsheet or collaborative document, allows coworkers to add their own recommendations, reviews, and favorite businesses throughout the year. Accessible resources like this build engagement that lasts well beyond the month of August.
Another meaningful way to support Black-owned businesses is by incorporating them into your organization’s everyday operations. Consider ordering team lunches from Black-owned restaurants, sourcing office supplies or promotional items from diverse vendors or selecting Black-owned businesses for client gifts and company events.
Beyond day-to-day purchases, organizations can also evaluate their procurement practices to identify opportunities to expand partnerships with Black-owned vendors and build relationships with local business organizations and chambers of commerce. By incorporating these efforts into ongoing business practices, not just during National Black Business Month, companies can help create lasting economic opportunity, strengthen local businesses and foster a more inclusive business community.
August holidays to recognize
Additionally, World Cancer Support Month is observed each August to raise awareness, offer hope and show solidarity with the millions of people around the world affected by cancer. The month emphasizes the importance of support, collaboration and access to resources while encouraging individuals, communities and organizations to work together to lessen the impact of cancer and improve the lives of patients, survivors and their loved ones.
Connect with businesses
If you are interested in engaging with local Black Businesses, please connect with them here:
LEAFBERRI Co. | Open: Online and Store Locator; featured in the DRC’s 2025 Women’s Business Conference
LEAFBERRI is a wellness-focused tea company founded by Dr. Yvonne, a board-certified clinical pharmacist and fourth-generation Kenyan tea producer, that sources premium, hand-picked Kenyan teas directly from small-scale farmers. The company is dedicated to showcasing the quality and heritage of authentic Kenyan tea while supporting sustainable farming, empowering local communities and giving back through initiatives that improve maternal and infant health in Kenya.
HUG BBQ | Open: Wednesday-Saturday, 11-8 p.m.
133 Historic Town Sq. Lancaster, TX, 75146
HUG BBQ is a family-owned-and-operated craft BBQ restaurant, located in the heart of the historic Lancaster town square. All of their signature recipes are scratch made using the freshest ingredients possible.
Enid b. | Open: Online, Farmers Markets & In store; featured in the DRC’s 2025 Women’s Business Conference
Enid b. is a North Dallas-based artisan skincare and haircare brand that creates small-batch soaps, body butters, scrubs and herbal oils inspired by Jamaican traditions and made with organic, wild-crafted and locally sourced ingredients. Founded by Kareen Harmon, the company combines natural, plant-based ingredients with sustainable practices to provide nourishing products that promote healthy skin and hair while honoring heritage and craftsmanship.
Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food | Open: Wednesday-Sunday, 11-8 p.m.
3939 S. Polk St. #305, Dallas, TX, 75224
Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food is a Dallas-based, family-owned restaurant that serves elevated Southern comfort food made from scratch, featuring favorites like baked ribs, fried catfish, rotisserie chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens and other classic soul food dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and a healthier approach to traditional recipes. Founded by Chef Kevin Winston and named after his two sons, the restaurant is known for its warm hospitality, commitment to quality and catering services for businesses, events and the local community.
Pan-African Connection, Bookstore and Resource Center | Open: Tuesday-Friday, 11-7 p.m., Saturday, 10-7 p.m. & Sunday, 1-5 p.m.; featured in the DRC’s 2025 Women’s Business Conference
4466 S. Marsalis Ave., Dallas, TX, 75216
Pan-African Connection is a Dallas-based, Black-owned bookstore, art gallery and cultural resource center dedicated to celebrating African history, culture and the global African diaspora through books, art, clothing, jewelry, wellness products and educational programming. In addition to its retail offerings, the organization serves as a community hub by hosting cultural events, workshops and discussions that promote education, wellness and cultural connection.
Brown Brownie | Open: Online; featured in the DRC’s 2025 Women’s Business Conference
Brown Brownie is a mother-and-daughter-owned stationery and gift company that creates wrapping paper, gift bags, greeting cards and other paper goods designed to celebrate and reflect the beauty, diversity and traditions of communities of color. Inspired by cherished family memories, the company is committed to producing high-quality products that foster representation, celebrate individuality and make gift-giving more meaningful.
The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce (DBCC)
Founded in 1926 as the nation’s first Black chamber of commerce, the DBCC advocates for the creation, growth and long-term success of Black-owned businesses and organizations across North Texas by promoting economic development, education, business opportunities and strategic partnerships. Through programs like the Black Business Bootcamp, accelerator initiatives, technical assistance, networking events, grant opportunities and advocacy, the Chamber equips entrepreneurs and businesses with the resources, training and connections needed to grow and compete.
Organizations and individuals can engage with the DBCC by becoming members, participating in educational programs and networking events, joining committees, sponsoring initiatives and partnering to support Black business and community development throughout the region. To connect with businesses belonging to The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, visit their website.
Looking for more black-owned businesses to support? Click here.