Originally published in August 2021. Last updated Aug. 2, 2024.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are 3.5 million Black-owned businesses in the U.S., including around Michigan, in 2024. Despite this abundance, finding local Black-owned businesses can be challenging.
To remedy this, business owners and developers have created websites and apps to help people source Black-owned businesses around the world and help Black-business owners promote their own companies. Here is a list of apps and websites you can use to find and promote your own Black-owned businesses in the Detroit Region.
WeBuyBlack
WeBuyBlack (WBB) is the largest Black-owned business marketplace. They describe themselves as “a movement to see social and economic justice globally.” On WBB, consumers can shop for regular household items, books, arts and collectibles, games, holiday items, clothing, jewelry, and more.
In addition to adding their store to the marketplace, business owners can also take advantage of the marketing and advertising services WBB provides, including brand development, social media management, content development, and business consultation.
The Nile List
The Nile List (NLL) is a digital community that connects consumers with Black-owned brands that sell products and services. Consumers can find products by category and source vendors for events, including local events, conferences, pop-up shops, holiday events, and office events. Some sellers on TNL also provide exclusive codes for buyers who find and shop their business through the platform.
Business owners can submit their own business to TNL for free, as well as buy premier listings for between $15 and $25 per month. They can also advertise and join TNL’s affiliate program to additional benefits.
EatOkra
EatOkra is an app and online marketplace that helps foodies source Black-owned treats and restaurants. On the app, you can put in your location and find restaurants near you that you can dine in at or order delivery from. On the EatOkra marketplace, which can be accessed online and via the app, you can also find individual food items for sale by Black-owned businesses.
By joining the EatOkra marketplace, Black-owned food service businesses can access a community of 500,000 foodies for free. Businesses owners can also take advantage of EatOkra’s eLearning tools, business webinars, office hours, and executive conversations with the EatOkra community to grow their business by upgrading to Okra Plus for $29 per month.
I Am Black Business
I Am Black Business is an online and mobile Black-owned business directory. The directory was created to educate Black business owners on the power of technology and to give them a tool that will help them improve their business reach and profitability. The founders also shared it was created “to equip customers with a tool that will allow them to consciously decide where they spend their money and who they are supporting.” There are currently over 2,300 Black-owned businesses listed on I Am Black Business.
Black business owners can join I Am Black Business for $24.99 per month, gaining access to organic and paid promotional opportunities.
Support Black Owned
Support Black Owned (SBO) is an online directory that was created as a one-stop for Black business owners and consumers. Through its online marketplace, business owners can promote their good and services based on location, but consumers can also easily search for and find them. In addition, SBO offers tools and services that allow businesses to invest and build wealth in their communities and grow their businesses.