News Summary
The Birmingham Black Business Census is urging local Black entrepreneurs to participate in a vital data-collection initiative that will enhance visibility and resources for Black-owned businesses in the city. Open until April 30, the census aims to gather crucial information about revenue, industries, and economic impact, creating a roadmap for future success. Local business owners emphasize the importance of being counted to secure better support and funding, which will ultimately aid in integrating Black businesses into Birmingham’s economic strategies.
Birmingham Black Business Census Aims to Empower Local Black Entrepreneurs by Collecting Vital Data
Birmingham, Alabama – In an effort to empower local Black entrepreneurs, the Birmingham Black Business Census is encouraging business owners to participate in a data-collection initiative that will inform the future of Black-owned businesses in the city. Black entrepreneurs have until Wednesday, April 30, to take part in this crucial census aimed at enhancing visibility, resources, and opportunities for their enterprises.
The census seeks to gather comprehensive information about Black-owned businesses in Birmingham, including revenue ranges, industries, number of employees, and the overall economic impact of these firms. This initiative goes beyond a simple survey; it aims to create a roadmap for success that can guide both existing and future Black business owners in navigating the local economic landscape.
Local Insights and Community Impact
The importance of this census is highlighted by local business owners, such as Drew Jones, the proprietor of Fly V, an apparel brand established in 2010. He underlines that being counted is essential for recognition within the Black community and acknowledges that data from this census can lead to better support for minority entrepreneurs.
Antrice Nelson, owner of the long-standing Nelson Brothers Cafe, which has been a community staple since 1943, believes that the census will help businesses like hers stay informed and connected. The challenge of securing adequate funding and support remains significant, particularly for historic establishments like Nelson Brothers Cafe, underscoring the need for reliable data to advocate for necessary resources.
Supporting Economic Growth
According to Autumn Sanders, part of the organizing team at Quire Consulting, reliable data is critical for integrating Black-owned businesses into the broader economic strategies of Birmingham. Currently, there are 2,653 minority-owned employer firms in the Birmingham region, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, generating $4.23 billion in annual sales. Collecting data through the Black Business Census will strengthen these businesses’ positions within the city’s economic fabric.
The census is open to all Black-owned businesses in Birmingham, regardless of their size or operational success. Its objective is to ensure these enterprises are included in Birmingham’s economic plans and strategies, ultimately fostering greater support for minority business leaders.
Broader Policy Implications
As Birmingham continues to seek economic revitalization and growth, initiatives like the Black Business Census can play a pivotal role in addressing systemic challenges that Black entrepreneurs face. The aggregation of reliable data will not only help in crafting policies that are responsive to the specific needs of Black-owned businesses but also set a foundation for equitable resource allocation in the future.
For Black business owners in Birmingham interested in contributing to this significant endeavor, participation in the census is a chance to be counted and influence initiatives tailored to promoting the success of Black entrepreneurs.
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Calling All Black Business Owners of Birmingham
- AL.com: Birmingham Black Business Census
- ABC 33/40: Birmingham Black Business Census
- BBC News: Black Business Census Impact
- WBRC: Oldest Black-Owned Business Celebrates Milestone
- Wikipedia: Black-Owned Business
