The East Bay is home to a rich legacy of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurship. From the first Black Whaling Captain on the West Coast to sail from Oakland in 1886, to ground-breaking artists, activists, and entrepreneurs who shaped our culture, we celebrate Black history that is the East Bay.
Black-owned small businesses remain disproportionality impacted by lack of access to capital and investment, with Black entrepreneurs receiving just 29% of loans from large banks compared to 60% of White-owned small businesses. Small Business Majority has compiled a list of funding and Business Assistance Opportunities for Black Entrepreneurs, including grants and mentorship opportunities. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is also working to support through resources, including a recently recorded webinar on Procurement and Contracting Opportunities for Black-Owned Businesses.
East Bay EDA encourages you to explore the many ways to support Black-owned businesses both during Black History Month and every day. Locally, the Oakland Chamber of Commerce has put together a list highlighting businesses and events around the Town. One event is the Black Joy Parade, which “exists to provide the Black community and allies a live experience that celebrates our influence on cultures past, present and future.” This year’s festivities will take place on Sunday, February 26. Make sure to stop by Liberation Park on the Road from East Bay EDA member Black Cultural Zone.
Below are additional links to organizations and resources with support for Black-owned businesses in the East Bay. If you would like to share or update a listing, please contact us at info@eastbayeda.org.