The City of Montgomery is celebrating National Black Business Month during the month of August.
The annual observance is intended to recognize the contributions of black owned businesses to the local economy and community. National Black Business Month honors the success of these businesses which help sustain local economies across the nation.
Montgomery is home to a wide range of black owned businesses including local restaurants, retailers, professional services and creative companies which the city says “contribute to the vibrancy and richness of our city.”
“Black owned businesses contribute to the overall economic prosperity of our city,” says Mayor Steven Reed, “I am proud to recognize and celebrate the contributions of these businesses.”
According to the city, Mayor Reed’s creation of new procurement processes has led to an over 300% increase in black owned businesses who participate in the city contract process.
Reed’s administration also points to the ‘Doing Business with Montgomery’ small business initiative and the ‘Heartland Forward Builders and Backers’ program as strategies which have helped black businesses thrive.
“We aim to foster a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion in everything we do,” Reed says.
The city encourages everyone to shop and dine locally during August and to spread the word about locally owned businesses.