Established in 2004, Black Business Month is a month-long holiday in August that uplifts, celebrates, and highlights the positive impact of Black businesses nationwide. According to the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development's website, this holiday is essential because it "not only contributes to economic empowerment but also inspires the next generation of Black entrepreneurs." As a workforce development nonprofit, this statement deeply resonates with us!

For this month's blog post, we wanted to spotlight local Black-owned businesses near our organization's stores and donation centers in the greater Washington region.

You can meaningfully support these changemakers by patronizing them, following, and spreading the word about their operations. Keeping businesses in business goes beyond your wallet!

Washington, DC

Black + Forth: https://www.blackandforth.org/

Located in Northeast, this multi-faceted operation is a nonprofit and the "first Black-owned strip mall offering affordable commercial space for lease by Black business owners, to provide accessible education, resources and grants."

Sycamore & Oak: https://www.sycamoreandoak.com/

Congress Heights is home to this small business-fueled Shopping Center with a grocery store, boutiques, and artists.

Maryland

Mansa Kunda: https://mansakunda.com/

This Takoma Park, MD restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie. Mansa Kunda offers flavorful West African dishes for all dietary needs, preferences, and lifestyles.

Prince George's County Guide: Black Business Month — Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation

Instead of including just one business in Prince George's County, we found this comprehensive resource on the local government's website that can be your one-stop shop for all things Black Business Month. Dive into this guide and attend their Soiree on the 28th!

Virginia

Alexandria, VA Restaurants: Black-Owned Restaurants

Alexandria, VA, is home to two of our nonprofit's Retail Store / Donation Center locations—Hayfield on Telegraph Road is one of the largest Goodwill stores in our organization! We know that thrifting can work up an appetite, so we encourage you to use this list to guide your meal decisions. We cannot wait to try Mason Social and Makeda!

Dolce & Ciabatta Bakery - Catoctin Circle: Dolce & Ciabatta Bakery & Cafe

We discovered this bakery while looking through Loudoun County's business guide and immediately bookmarked it for upcoming Loudoun thrift adventures. According to Seven Black-Owned Businesses to Discover in Loudoun, the owner is bringing experience making desserts in some 30 countries to Loudoun pastry fans."

This list only begins to highlight local Black-owned businesses to support, not only this month but throughout the year, especially after a successful thrift trip to Goodwill.

Are there any spots we’ve missed? Please send us an email or comment on social media with suggestions of places our community should visit!