With Black History Month wrapped up, some Black entrepreneurs are looking back on the increased attention they received in February, while raising concerns about whether that support lasts beyond the month.
During February, conversations around representation, community engagement and supporting Black-owned businesses tend to become more visible, especially on social media. But business owners say long-term growth often depends on consistent support well beyond the end of February.
Entrepreneurs say the recognition and celebration are important, but continued support throughout the year will ultimately determine how Black-owned businesses grow and thrive moving forward.
Beauty entrepreneur, Kiera Salmon, founder of KierasArtistry in Ajax, Ont., said maintaining visibility and reaching new clients can still be one of the biggest challenges she faces as a business owner.
“One of the biggest challenges is always growing my visibility and reaching new clients,” Salmon said. “As a Black entrepreneur, there can be moments where I feel like I have to work a little harder to prove myself or stand out.”
She said although the beauty industry has become more inclusive in recent years, there is still room for greater representation and continued support for Black entrepreneurs.
Reflecting on this year’s Black History Month, Salmon said it was encouraging to see people intentionally highlighting Black businesses and creators online.
“It has been really nice to see people highlighting Black businesses, creators and stories,” she said. “Social media definitely plays a big role in helping discover new businesses and show support.”
Still, she believes those conversations should continue long after the month ends.
“I do think it’s important that the conversation continues past February, because long-term support is what really helps businesses grow," Salmon said.
Another entrepreneur in the beauty industry, Alysha Bonadie, owner of Bona Braids in Ajax, said community support has played a key role in sustaining her business over the years.
“Community support is extremely important throughout the year for Black-owned businesses,” Bonadie said.
Working in a service-based industry like hairstyling means that word-of-mouth recommendations and loyal returning clients are often the foundation of a successful business. Bonadie said regular bookings, referrals and clients sharing their experiences can make a major difference for small businesses trying to grow.
At the same time, she noted challenges still exist within the industry, particularly in valuing time and labour.
“One challenge we face is sometimes forgetting our value or overworking, especially in hairstyling,” she said. “I feel like we sometimes undervalue our time and work ethic.”
Both entrepreneurs say while awareness and appreciation for Black businesses have grown over the years, there is still room for communities to continue supporting them consistently throughout the year, as well as growth overall.
For many small businesses, meaningful support does not have to be complicated. Simple actions like referrals, leaving positive reviews, sharing a business online or reposting accounts on social media can make a big difference.
“Uplifting a Black-owned business can be as simple as a referral, posting about your experience, or leaving a review,” Salmon said. “Those things go a long way.”
Bonadie also noted that in recent years she has seen more conversations about Black history and achievements online, helping bring more awareness and education to wider audiences.
However, both say that real impact happens when that awareness turns into everyday support from customers and communities.
