County Executive Agard acknowledges August as Black Business Recognition Month
In August, Dane County, Wisconsin, will recognize Black Business Month, a time to celebrate and support the growth of Black-owned businesses that are playing a significant role in driving the county forward.
Empowering Black-Owned Businesses: The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce
The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, a leading nonprofit organization, is at the forefront of this movement. With over 700 member businesses, the Chamber empowers Black-owned businesses through education, advocacy, promotion, and community building in South Central Wisconsin.
One of their signature events, the Madison Black Restaurant Week, highlights Black-owned culinary businesses, boosting local economic impact and community awareness. The 10th edition of this event is scheduled for August 10–17, 2025.
Official Recognition and Support
County Executive Melissa Agard officially recognizes Black Business Month with proclamations, helping raise public awareness and encouraging county-level support for Black-owned enterprises.
Dane Buy Local, while not exclusively focused on Black-owned businesses, fosters local economic growth by promoting and connecting all local businesses, including Black entrepreneurs, through community events and collaborations.
Creating a Supportive Network
These organizations and initiatives collectively contribute to the growth of Black-owned businesses in Dane County by creating platforms for showcasing products and services, offering education, advocacy, and networking opportunities, and garnering official governmental recognition that reinforces the value of Black businesses in the community.
The combined efforts increase visibility, strengthen local economic development, and build a supportive network for Black-owned businesses in the area.
Expanding Opportunities
The Black Enterprise Fund, UW-Madison Extension's entrepreneur services, including the WARF UpStart accelerator, and the Black Business Hub also play crucial roles in expanding access to funding, mentorship, and technical assistance for Black entrepreneurs in Dane County.
Multiple organizations in Dane County are working to expand access and remove barriers for Black entrepreneurs, ensuring their continued growth and success.
Black-owned businesses in Dane County are on the rise, reflecting the creativity, perseverance, and leadership that help drive the county forward. Agard emphasized that Black Business Month is not just about celebration, but also recognition, investment, and action. The goal is to reaffirm the county's commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable business environment.
Black Americans represent about 14% of the U.S. population, and Black-owned businesses make up 3% of all U.S. firms. Black Business Month aims to celebrate the innovation, leadership, and economic contributions of Black entrepreneurs in Dane County. The number of Black-owned businesses in Dane County grew by over 30% between 2017-2022. Agard stated that Black residents have strengthened the communities and enriched the lives in Dane County.
- In alignment with Dane County's recognition of Black Business Month, the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, a leading nonprofit organization, promotes and supports the growth of Black-owned businesses through education, advocacy, and networking opportunities, thereby contributing to the finance and lifestyle sector of the county's business ecosystem.
- As part of the efforts to expand opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, organizations like the Black Enterprise Fund, UW-Madison Extension's entrepreneur services, and the Black Business Hub provide access to funding, mentorship, and technical assistance, positively impacting the financial prospects and overall lifestyle of Black-owned businesses in Dane County.
