August is set aside to help shed light on Black ownership and encourage others to support Black-owned businesses. This month marks the fifteenth anniversary of the holiday, National Black Business Month, which was started by Frederick E. Jordan and John William Templeton in 2004.
However, supporting Black-owned businesses can be difficult if you don’t know where they are. We’ve rounded up a list of five apps or websites that will help direct you to Black-owned businesses.
From restaurants to hair care, there’s a little bit of something for everybody.
1. EatOkra (iOS and Android)
If you’re in the mood for food, consider checking out EatOkra.
Founded by Anthony and Janique Edwards in 2016, this app helps you locate Black-owned restaurants in 35 different cities, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Chicago, and more.
Don’t get offended if you log on and notice that a beloved Black restaurant from your city is missing. EatOkra relies on users to help direct it to more restaurants, so go ahead and add the ones you know.
2. WeBuyBlack (web)
WeBuyBlack is a website home to thousands of Black-owned businesses.
You can find all sorts of products like jewelry, clothing, and children’s toys. Plus, you get the benefit of shopping Black without having to leave your home.
3. I Am Black Business (iOS and Android)
Both a website and a mobile app, I Am Black Business is a directory that not only helps consumers find Black businesses but gets their owners utilizing new technologies.
“Ultimately, our goal is to educate black business owners on the power of technology and give them a tool that will help them improve their business reach and profitability,” the website reads.
4. WhereU Came From (iOS)
By accessing either its website or mobile app, WhereU Came From can help you find Black-owned businesses and professional services.
Also, WhereU Came From lets you refer your family and friends to businesses you trust.
5. Official Black Wall Street (iOS and Android)
In 2015, Mandy Bowman founded the Official Black Wall Street after learning about the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. White residents targeted homes and businesses of the Greenwood neighborhood, which used to be known as Black Wall Street.
Describing itself as the largest platform for Black businesses, one unique aspect about the app is that it sends push notifications whenever you’re near a Black-owned business.
Editorial Note: This piece was originally published on August 22, 2019.