Every August, Black Business Month invites us to champion the more than 3 million Black-owned businesses across the nation. Black Business Month was created to not only highlight Black-owned businesses in the United States, but to raise awareness of the unique challenges Black entrepreneurs face and to help shape and inform policy decisions that affect these businesses.

Approximately 10 percent of all American businesses are Black-owned. These companies generate more than $200 billion in annual revenue and support 3.56 million U.S. jobs. But Black business owners experience disproportionate hurdles in terms of starting up and successfully turning a profit.

Challenges to obtaining capital are consistently listed as a top concern for Black small business owners. Historically, lending in Black communities has been characterized by discriminatory practices, which can make starting and sustaining a new business exceptionally difficult. Black business owners also often lack community mentorship, networking opportunities and supportive resources compared to non-minority merchants.

Black Business Month helps Black-owned businesses increase awareness, patronage and recognition. As consumers, it is vital that we are intentional in our support of Black-owned businesses not only this month but throughout the year. Support can come in many different forms – from making a purchase to engaging on social media to word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some notable Black-owned businesses JumpStart currently works with (click on the title of each to learn more):