How to find the best Black-owned businesses near you and help local entrepreneurs

Supporting Black-owned services is a meaningful way to empower communities, promote equity, and invest in sustainable economic growth. Whether you’re looking for a local plumber, a yoga instructor, or a great new restaurant, prioritizing Black-owned businesses is easier than ever, thanks to online tools and social media.

This post will provide five practical tips to help you find and support Black-owned services in your area. From leveraging local directories to attending community events, these strategies will not only help you discover great businesses but also create a ripple effect of positive change.

1. Start with Local Directories

One of the best ways to find Black-owned services and businesses is to use local directories. Websites like Official Black Wall Street, WeBuyBlack, and our own, The Melanated Club, allow users to search for businesses by category, location, and even specific services.

What’s great about using directories is that you can use filters to narrow your search to your city or neighborhood, making it easier to find Black-owned services in your region. As with any directory, we recommend you check reviews and ratings to ensure quality and reliability. Bookmark businesses you’re interested in so you can easily return to them later!

It is essential to support Black entrepreneurs locally. By using a directory, you can quickly find the service or product you’re looking for, provided by a business that not only meets your needs but also aligns with your values. Taking the time to explore these directories helps support entrepreneurs who are building wealth within their communities.

Lastly, using a directory saves so much time when researching for something specific, and if you’re planning a big event like a wedding, for example, it makes the process smoother and stress-free.

2. Use Social Media Hashtags

Social media has become a powerful tool for connecting consumers with Black-owned businesses. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are especially popular for showcasing local services, from beauty salons to fitness trainers.

You’d be surprised how easily you can find Black-owned services in just a few clicks by using the right hashtags. Some of our favorites include #SupportBlackBusiness, #BuyBlack, or location-based hashtags such as #BlackOwnedChicago or #BlackOwnedLA. These hashtags can lead you to posts from businesses in your area or even influencers promoting Black-owned brands.

We recommend you follow accounts that spotlight Black-owned services thus they often post recommendations and reviews and help local businesses to be seen. Follow influencers that align with your content preferences (such as lifestyle, beauty, etc) that also support and showcase Black-owned businesses. Social media is not just about finding services but also engaging with the people behind them. Commenting, sharing, and tagging these businesses amplifies their visibility and impact.

You can use hashtags in TikTok, for example, to find accounts that align with your preferences and values, such as #BlackCreatorsToFollow, or #BlackBusinessesToBuyFrom. Once you start engaging with that content the algorithms will do their magic and suggest similar accounts.

3. Ask for Recommendations

Sometimes, the best way to find Black-owned services is by simply asking around. Word-of-mouth referrals from friends, family, or coworkers can lead you to hidden gems in your area.

You can also tap into online communities. Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor have groups where locals share recommendations. A quick post asking for Black-owned services—whether you need a mechanic, a caterer, or a photographer—often results in a flood of suggestions.

For example, you might hear about a Black-owned cleaning service in your area through a coworker or discover a nearby Black-owned bookstore recommended by someone in a local group. These personal connections often help ensure the businesses you find are trustworthy and high-quality.

Recommendations tend to attract more people compared to online reviews since you have a family member or friend (someone you trust) already content with that product or service.

4. Use Google and Review Platforms

Google and review platforms like Yelp are key resources when searching for Black-owned services. A simple search for “Black-owned businesses near me” can yield a variety of results tailored to your area.

When searching, pay attention to user reviews and ratings to gauge the quality of the services offered. If you’re unsure about the ownership of a business, check their website or social media pages for clues, such as a mission statement or owner bios.

Bookmark or save businesses to your Google account for easy access later. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to use their services frequently or refer others to them. For example, if you run a restaurant and are looking for new vendors to deliver fresh produce weekly. By actively seeking out and supporting these businesses, you’re helping to create a stronger, more inclusive local economy.

5. Attend Local Events and Markets

Community events and markets are fantastic opportunities to discover Black-owned businesses and services. Many cities host pop-up events, cultural festivals, and farmers' markets where Black entrepreneurs showcase their products and services.

It’s the perfect way to discover new products/services and the people behind them, which makes the experience ten times better. When approaching an entrepreneur, they’ll likely tell you about the design and production process or tell you how their service can help you specifically. Networking at these events is a great way to find long-term service providers, like hairstylists or accountants, who might be a perfect fit for your needs.

Follow local event organizers or cultural organizations on social media to stay updated on upcoming opportunities. Not only will you find incredible services, but you’ll also enjoy supporting a community atmosphere filled with creativity and collaboration.

Finding Black-Owned Businesses In Your Area

Finding and supporting Black-owned services in your area doesn’t have to be complicated. By using the tips shared above you can easily connect with businesses that align with your values.

Every dollar spent with a Black-owned business is a step toward fostering community empowerment and creating a more equitable economy. Start small, find one Black-owned service this week, and share your experience with others. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive community for all.

5 Essential Tips for Finding Black-Owned Services in Your Area