Get Plugged In to Black Business Trends

Black History Month is THE time to reflect on the pioneering and historical accomplishments of African Americans throughout the nation. It is also the time to chart your own course and define your footprint in the reality of life. It’s time to “get plugged in to Black Business Trends,” needed to ensure a healthier, happier, and – hopefully – more financially stable you.

Black businesses play a crucial role in the small business sector and are definitely making an impact. Bringing diversity and innovation to the market, Black businesses offer unique products and services, contributing greatly to the economy. According to 2021 Census data, 161,031 U.S. businesses were Black-owned. The Census Bureau also reported that Black-owned businesses produced $141.1 billion in annual receipts, 1.3 million employees, and around $42.2 billion in annual payroll. Those stats are off-the-charts and impressive.

In 2025, numerous Black business trends are “In.” Even in the midst of a changing era of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and representation. The latest Business Leaders Outlook survey by Chase Insights reveals that “no major shifts in sentiment are evident, reflecting a deeper focus on stability. Business leaders are turning inward, concentrating on their operations and areas within their control. They stand ready to adapt to the unfolding realities of an unsure economic landscape.”

Furthermore, the survey shared that “Respondents from businesses with Black owners and Hispanic owners are even more confident, reporting significantly higher optimism scores at nearly all levels.”

My personal motto for this year is to “Thrive and Energize in 2025!” Let’s remain steadfast and adapt to challenges, changes, and disruption with professionalism. Here are some solid insights to help get you plugged in with emerging Black Business Trends:

Innovation and Automation

As the world becomes more interconnected, it’s important to embrace technological advancements and digital platforms. From AI-driven analytics to automation tools that streamline operations, small businesses can focus more on strategy and less on monotonous tasks.

A Sustainability Concentration

A sustainability concentration is key in 2025, as businesses that align with eco-conscious practices are earning long-term loyalty. By shifting to local suppliers, minimizing waste, and adopting energy-efficient practices, small businesses are making efforts to connect with environmentally aware consumers who want their purchases to align with their sustainability values.

Networking and Collaboration

Networking and collaboration can be a powerful way for black businesses to grow their audience, share resources, and create mutually beneficial opportunities that can open doors to valuable partnerships and mentorship opportunities. Networking and collaboration with other Black entrepreneurs, community organizations, and business groups will always be an “In” trend.

Education

Black businesses are incorporating initiatives within their organizations that foster skills development and that help nurture and elevate the next generation of Black business leaders.

Take charge of your own business education by networking with inspiring business mentors, reading helpful business content, and attending online learning sessions such as our upcoming webinar!

Strategy Consideration

In 2025, there is less focus on how much Black businesses spend and more focus on how well they communicate with their audience. Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are giving small businesses direct access to millions of potential customers. But their strategy consideration is key. Creating content that tells their story, solves problems, and engages their audience is the best way to maximize audience reach.

In summary, Black Businesses have a significant impact on the economy. The journey ahead is filled with numerous possibilities and emerging Black business trends that are “In.” As Black businesses make strategic moves to scale their operations, focusing on innovation and automation, a sustainability concentration, networking and collaboration, education, and strategy consideration, they will remain on an upward path for growth and escalation. Be sure to stay “plugged In” to the goodness of corporate and personal growth and development for you and your brand, and together, let’s make the difference of a lifetime.

Bernadette Morris

Bernadette Morris, MPA, is the Founder,
President, and CEO of Sonshine Communications and Black PR Wire.

Tanisha Coleman

Tanisha Coleman, MBA, is the Marketing Director & Senior Account Executive
at Sonshine Communications.

Sonshine Communications is a full-service public relations, marketing, and advertising agency. Black PR Wire is the nation’s first online Black news distribution company. Both companies are based in Miami, Florida.