Add Row 
Add 
Celebrating Growth: Black-Owned Businesses in Mid-Michigan
As we honor Black History Month, local black-owned businesses in mid-Michigan embody a narrative of resilience and triumph. Business owners like Candice Pizzo, who runs Oracle's Apothecary in Lansing, highlight the significance of community support in fostering their entrepreneurial success. Since its inception in 2018, Pizzo's apothecary has grown from offering a modest selection of herbs to now boasting an impressive inventory of over 160 herbs and natural skin care products.
“We specialize in really natural skincare with essential oils and clean ingredients, which is important in our community,” Pizzo stated, emphasizing the lack of representation in the wellness sector. Her story is not just about business growth; it's a testament to the representation needed in black-owned apothecaries, illustrating the importance of diversity in all industries.
The Ripple Effect of Community Support
Just down the road in East Lansing, Robert Wilkie recently celebrated the expansion of RJ’s Burgers and Ice Cream, a restaurant borne from personal tragedy and community love. Since opening his first location in Jackson in 2021, Wilkie's expansion reflects both his commitment to honoring his late son and the unwavering support of the local community. “Opening this restaurant on my son’s birthday is a tribute to him and our dream. Black History Month gives us a chance to inspire others,” Wilkie shared.
Such stories highlight an incredible trend: black-owned businesses are not only growing; they are becoming pillars of their communities, fostering social connections and leading by example.
Insights from Industry Experts
The growth of black-owned businesses in Michigan reflects broader trends analyzed by experts at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which reported that there are over 161,000 Black-owned businesses across America contributing to a substantial $183.3 billion in sales annually. Despite the strides made, challenges remain, particularly in access to capital and mentorship opportunities.
For instance, industry leaders like Tricia M. Taitt emphasize the critical need for financial education among black entrepreneurs to advance their businesses. The lack of access to networks and resources often hampers potential growth, a sentiment echoed by many in the community. Initiatives by organizations like the SBA provide much-needed support, offering resources such as business development centers and funding opportunities specifically designed for underserved populations.
The Importance of Representation
With events hosted at institutions like Michigan State University emphasizing Black History Month, the opportunity for celebration and representation in academic and entrepreneurial spaces merges seamlessly. As Pizzo eloquently puts it, “It matters that there is representation in the community. We need to show others that diversity in business is not just good for us—it’s good for everyone.”
Taking Action for Future Generations
With the community rallying around black-owned businesses, the focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum. Initiatives aimed at fostering generational wealth through entrepreneurship are vital. According to research from the Association for Enterprise Opportunity, families with entrepreneurs maintain significantly greater wealth compared to those without a business owner. This correlation underscores the value of supporting black entrepreneurship for the health of communities.
The Road Ahead
Challenges persist, but the achievements of black-owned businesses during Black History Month bring optimism for the future. As these enterprises continue to thrive, they set a precedent for future generations—evidencing that resilience, community support, and a commitment to representation are not just aspirations but achievable realities. This focus will not only help build stronger businesses but also more vibrant communities.
Write A Comment