This Black History Month, why not celebrate some Black-owned businesses making history in your area?
Supporting Black-owned businesses is important now more than ever, and as Honeycomb alumni Justin Strong of Strong's Cleaners puts it, "As we all know, the pandemic exposed and exacerbated pre-existing challenges for predominantly working-class Black populations. Whether we like it or not, we live in a capitalist society. We must fight fire with fire to solve some of these challenges. It doesn't matter what you spend your money on. If you can, visit a storefront vs online ordering. For the rest of the year, spend at least $20 per week at a Black-Owned Business. Be intentional even if that means being inconvenienced. "
Honeycomb staff across the nation have picked out some of our favorite Black-owned businesses - whether you need a bowtie or a good book, we’ve got you covered.
The Brain Lair - South Bend, IN
The Brain Lair in South Bend, Indiana is one of content strategist Calla Norman’s favorite businesses in her hometown. The bookstore has a special focus on middle grade and young adult fiction from diverse authors telling important stories. Started by Kathy Burnette, a former elementary school librarian, The Brain Lair is “dedicated to building empathy and building a community centered around the discussion of inclusive books and fun.” While Calla’s been known to dip into young adult fiction here and there herself, she especially loves this place because it’s an excellent resource for getting books to broaden her young relatives’ reading habits.
Also, The Brain Lair has an excellent e-commerce website, with shipping available nationwide, as well as popups and local pickups in the South Bend area.
Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books - Philadelphia, PA
Honeycomb Chief of Staff Topiltzin Gomez wants to shout-out Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books in Philadelphia, which he says is a great community space! Continuing on this well-read trend, Uncle Bobbie’s is a bookstore that hosts events, has a cafe which features products from local bakeries, and stocks apparel and children’s game. The business has a mission of providing “underserved communities with access to books and a space where everyone feels valued.”
Knotzland - Pittsburgh, PA
CEO George Cook of course had to pick a Pittsburgh favorite - Knotzland Bowties, a bespoke bowtie company. Not only are their bowties incredibly stylish, but they also have a purpose. So far, Knotzland Bowties has rescued over 6259 pounds of textile waste from being thrown away!
Communion Restaurant and Bar - Seattle, WA
Seattleite and Director of Marketing Sophia Fang recommends Communion Restaurant and Bar in Seattle, Washington. Known for “Seattle-style soul food,” Communion Restaurant and Bar has a “mission to foster community through the cultivation of fresh food and fine cooking.” The restaurant has gained national recognition, being named one of the best 12 new restaurants in the world by Conde Nast!
Excellence in Honeycomb Alumni Black-Owned Businesses
And of course, we had to shout-out some of our favorite Honeycomb alumni! Follow the links to learn more about each of these incredible Black-owned Businesses that have crowdfunded loans with Honeycomb.
8 Myles Mac ’N’ Cheese - also see some of Myle’s tips for Black entrepreneurs, in conversation with Danielle Devens of Bold XChange
Black-owned businesses are our present and future - let’s invest in them!
Check out live campaigns on Honeycomb Credit today to find small business owners who are crowdfunding their growth today!