The Little Black Book of Denver’s Black-Owned Businesses

In a world where representation matters, Denver resident Carla Ladd is making strides to ensure Black-owned businesses are not left behind. Over two decades ago, she founded DenverBlackPages.com, an online directory that helps locate Black-owned businesses in the area. Fast forward to 2019, Ladd began printing a ‘Little Black Book’ as a physical directory, and the 2024 edition pays homage to the Historic Green Book that Black travelers used during the Jim Crow era.

The State of Black-Owned Businesses in Denver

Despite Black individuals making up 5% of the population in the Denver metro area, Black-owned businesses only make up a mere 1.4%. This discrepancy highlights the underrepresentation of Black businesses and emphasizes the importance of supporting them for equality.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Black-owned businesses are growing and concentrating in specific industries such as healthcare, social assistance, and transportation. These industries are crucial for the community, and by supporting Black-owned businesses, we can help them thrive and employ more people.

Initiatives by the Biden-Harris Administration

The Biden-Harris Administration is taking steps to support minority small businesses, including Black-owned businesses. They have launched several initiatives, such as the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Community Navigator Pilot Program, which connects small businesses with trusted community partners for assistance in accessing federal resources.

These initiatives are crucial for the success of Black-owned businesses, which often face challenges in accessing capital and resources. The impact of Black businesses on the economy is significant, and by supporting them, we can help close the wealth gap between Black and white individuals.

The Progress of Black Women in Business Ownership

Black women are making significant strides in business ownership. According to a report by American Express, Black women-owned businesses grew by 50% from 2014 to 2019, making them the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the United States.

The progress of Black women in business ownership is a testament to their resilience and determination. They are not only creating jobs for themselves, but they are also employing others in their communities.

Challenges, Opportunities, and the Potential for Closing the Wealth Gap

Despite the progress made by Black-owned businesses, they still face challenges, such as lack of access to capital and resources. However, the pandemic has presented opportunities for Black businesses to pivot and adapt, and many have found success in doing so.

Supporting Black-owned businesses is not only essential for equality but also for closing the wealth gap between Black and white individuals. Thriving Black businesses can create generational wealth, provide job opportunities, and uplift their communities.

Carla Ladd, the founder of DenverBlackPages.com, is doing her part to support Black-owned businesses in the Denver metro area. Her Little Black Book is more than just a directory; it’s a tool for empowerment and a symbol of hope for Black businesses.

On February 16, Beyond Elegance Events, an Aurora small business, will host the official launch party for the latest edition of the Little Black Book. This event is a celebration of the progress made by Black-owned businesses and a call to action for continued support.

As we look to the future, it’s essential to recognize the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. By doing so, we can help create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.