A local challenge aims to create a pipeline of support for Black-owned businesses during Black History Month. The initiative will further another goal to help and highlight Black business owners in the area.
The founder of Shop Black Biz Dayton Chataun Denis has created a 28-day challenge for the month of February to help the community shop with Black-owned businesses.
The challenge is the first step of her ultimate goal: to build a Black-owned business directory for Dayton. Throughout February, any Black business owner in the region is welcome to add their business to the directory for free.
“I hope this directory is a model that can be replicated by small cities like ours and demonstrate how Black communities can channel their buying power to create neighborhood economies that support the people who live in them,” Denis said.
According to American Express and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, for every dollar spent at a local business, 67 cents stays within the community – compared to only 43 cents of every dollar spent with large retail chains.
The Shop Black Biz Challenge not only enables locals to support Black-owned businesses but also creates ways for Black business owners to tap into local business resources. From in-person activities such as buying coffee, attending yoga class or volunteering to work at the Hub to shopping online and virtual tours, there is something for everyone on the agenda.
Check out the full 28-day challenge at the official Shop Black Biz Dayton website.
A challenge is considered “complete” when the participant takes a photo or video of themselves completing the task and positing it on Facebook or Instagram. If the post is tagged @shopblackbizdayton, the business being supported will be entered for extra chances to win cash and prizes.
About Denis
A native Daytonian, Denis spent the last two decades in Cleveland and Atlanta building her career as a grant writer, before returning in spring 2022. Now quasi-retired, she went on a scavenger hunt around the region, looking for ways to support Black-owned businesses.
Denis landed at the Greater West Dayton Incubator, where she helps host monthly business clinics. During these events, business owners walk in off the street with any challenge, and experts in the room help them find a solution.
“I believe in Black business because we haven’t had a fair shot,” Denis said. “Discrimination has kept us from being great. We are a talented people, we built this country. I never thought I’d be back here, but divine order is such, and I love this place. I want to see the Westside have a thriving economy with businesses that create jobs and other economic opportunities for the people who live here. That’s what I want to see.”
