In honor of Black History Month, we asked our CEO, Renee Morris to share her top five remarkable Black-owned businesses that are making waves in their respective industries. As a Black-owned company, we understand the importance of recognizing and supporting the incredible contributions of our community. Let’s dive into these inspiring ventures!
1. Black Girl Sunscreen
Say goodbye to white residue and hello to sun protection tailored for melanin-rich skin tones! Black Girl Sunscreen, founded by Shontay Lundy in 2016, has revolutionized the way women of color protect their skin from the sun. Traditional sunscreens often leave an unsightly white cast on darker skin tones, but Black Girl Sunscreen dries clear, ensuring effective protection without compromise. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to prioritize sun safety while embracing their natural beauty.
2. Premium Goods
For sneaker aficionados in Houston, Premium Goods is more than just a store—it’s a cultural landmark. Founded by Jennifer Ford in 2004, Premium Goods stands as the first independent sneaker boutique in Houston, Texas. Nestled in Rice Village, this boutique offers a curated selection of sneakers, including coveted Jordans and Yeezys. It’s a testament to style, authenticity, and the vibrant sneaker culture that resonates with enthusiasts worldwide.
3. Urban One
For over forty years, Urban One has been a trailblazer in amplifying the voices of Black America. From its roots as the largest urban radio network to its expansion into television, digital media, and more, Urban One remains committed to representing the diverse experiences and narratives within the Black community. With brands like TV One, Radio One, and Reach Media, Urban One continues to shape the cultural landscape while advocating for social change and empowerment.
4. Higher Ground
Founded by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama in 2018, Higher Ground is a beacon of storytelling and representation. This visionary media company aims to produce compelling content that entertains, educates, and inspires audiences while championing underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry. With a focus on diversity and inclusivity, Higher Ground strives to spark meaningful conversations and drive positive change through the power of storytelling.
5. The Lip Bar
Melissa Butler’s journey from corporate disillusionment to beauty industry trailblazer is nothing short of inspiring. Frustrated by the lack of inclusivity in mainstream beauty, Butler took matters into her own hands and founded The Lip Bar. What began as a quest to create vibrant, vegan lipstick has evolved into a beauty brand that celebrates diversity and simplicity. Despite facing rejection on Shark Tank, Butler’s resilience and vision have propelled The Lip Bar to success, offering beauty products that cater to all skin tones and preferences.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s not only reflect on the achievements of the past but also recognize and support the thriving Black-owned businesses that enrich our communities and inspire us to dream bigger. These enterprises are not just symbols of entrepreneurship—they’re beacons of innovation, resilience, and empowerment.
