RESOURCES

Government & Institutional Support

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA): The only federal agency solely dedicated to minority business growth. It offers Business Centers nationwide that provide technical assistance, training, and help securing government contracts.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Provides the 8(a) Business Development Program, which helps socially and economically disadvantaged businesses compete for federal contracts.

Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): Offers no-cost, one-on-one consulting for business planning, financial forecasting, and scaling. 

Grant & Funding Opportunities

Coalition to Back Black Businesses: A multi-year initiative that awards $5,000 grants to businesses with 3–20 employees, coupled with long-term mentorship.

Amazon Black Business Accelerator: Provides Black-owned businesses with advertising credits, startup credits, and business education to sell successfully on Amazon.

NAACP Grants: Offers various funding options, including the Powershift Entrepreneur Grant ($25,000) and the Certification Boost Grant ($5,000).

Fearless Fund: A venture capital firm that invests in high-growth, scalable businesses led by women of color.

Wish Local Empowerment Program: Provides grants up to $2,000 for Black-owned brick-and-mortar storefronts with 20 or fewer employees. 

Networking & Mentorship Networks

U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC): A national network of over 100 local chambers providing advocacy, leadership training, and access to digital tools.

Black Business Association (BBA): One of the oldest ethnic business organizations, focusing on improving access to procurement opportunities and financial resources.

National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC): Connects certified minority-owned businesses with major corporate members and public-sector supply chains.

SCORE: A nonprofit network of expert volunteers who provide free mentoring specifically tailored to Black entrepreneurs.