Via KUOW - What does it take to run a thriving business in Washington? Lately, for a number of business owners around the Sound , the answer seems to be “too much.”

The Community Reinvestment Program (CRP) a City of Tacoma initiative that’s funded by the Washington State Department of Commerce, has listed all funds for Black families and Businesses. The establishments vary in resources that can help the community benefit in more ways than one.

Jenefeness Franke, from Black-Owned Business Excellence, highlights the abundance of available resources and the importance of staying informed. She emphasizes, "We need to be aware that these dollars, these applications, are coming open, and they're short windows because they gotta get the money out."

Small businesses are the heart and soul of Seattle's economy, but they face many challenges in today's economic climate. From rising costs to public safety concerns, these businesses need support to survive and thrive. The City of Seattle's Office of Economic Development (OED) is tasked with confronting these issues head-on and helping provide solutions for distressed small business owners. 

Operating out of a quaint commissary kitchen in downtown Kent, Chop Chop West African Cuisine is a catering company geared toward bringing authentic African food to African Americans in the Pacific Northwest.

We are pleased to announce that social media influencer Mark Quiroz is joining our Support Black Business Campaign as a content creator. Mark is best known for his popular Instagram and YouTube accounts where he creates short-form video content on Seattle lifestyle, travel, and restaurants and businesses.

By: Besa Gordon - On South Tacoma Way, Intentions Juice and Smoothie Bar is changing the game for health-conscious living in Tacoma. This isn’t just your average smoothie spot; it’s a vibrant space where health, creativity, and community come together.

By: Besa Gordon - Big Green Thumb Energy: Did y’all know there’s a Black-owned plant AND vinyl shop right in Pioneer Square? Yup, Flora and Fauna, which is also a Buy Black Card by Intentionalist location, is officially my new happy place for all things plants! Whether you’re a plant pro or just trying to keep one alive like me, Flora and Fauna has something for you, and if you need help, it’s owner Ashley Palmer got you covered.

Nestled in the heart of Seattle's Rainier Beach neighborhood, Umami Kushi, owned by Harold Fields, is a culinary gem that tantalizes taste buds and warms hearts. This unique café isn't just another eatery; it's the only Black-owned anime cafe in Seattle and the only cafe that focuses on Okazu Pan, which is a Japanese-style grab-and-go pastry.

Yesterday morning, Besa Gordon, host of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle and FOX SOUL, joined Erin Mayovsky on Good Day Seattle to discuss the urgent need to support Black-owned businesses in Puget Sound. Gordon's appearance was a passionate call to action, highlighting the struggles these businesses face and outlining ways the community can help.

The sixth annual Black-Owned Business Excellence Symposium will kick of Black History Month on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the McKinney Center for Community & Economic Development, 2120 S. Jackson Street, Seattle. at the McKinney Center for Community & Economic Development, 2120 S. Jackson Street, Seattle.

Seattle's Pioneer Square, a neighborhood steeped in history and charm, is home to a unique and vibrant business called Flora & Fauna. This one-of-a-kind shop offers a delightful blend of plants, vinyl records, and eco-friendly home goods, creating an inviting atmosphere that fosters a sense of community.

Hey everyone! Today was a super cool day. It marked the first day of our Support Black Business campaign, and I decided to put my money where my mouth is and try out a new spot I have never been. I'm always talking about supporting Black-owned businesses, but today I made a conscious effort to find one for lunch.

Creamy Cone Cafe, a vibrant hub of joy and deliciousness in Rainier Beach, is facing a pivotal moment. Ashanti Mayfield, the heart and soul behind the beloved ice cream shop, recently opened up about her uncertainties in an Instagram post, leaving the community both concerned and eager to support.

Converge Media announces the launch of an urgent campaign to support Black-owned businesses struggling in the current economic climate. The 60-day initiative will leverage Converge Media's extensive media resources and community connections to raise awareness, drive foot traffic, and support Black businesses in need across Puget Sound.

Besa Gordon appeared on Good Day Seattle with Erin Mayovsky on FOX 13 Seattle this morning to introduce viewers to WeRise Wines, a new wine bar and shop in downtown Seattle.  WeRise Wines is committed to inclusivity, highlighting BIPOC and LGBTQ+ winemakers from across the state and region.

It was with mixed emotions I found myself standing amidst the remnants of another beloved Black-owned business, Jackson's Catfish Corner, as they closed their doors for the last time last Friday after 40 years in business. The weight of that loss still hung heavy in the air when I received a call from Marie Kidhe, delivering news that didn’t make things much better: La Familia Sports Bar in Des Moines was shutting down for good on Sunday.

By Besa Gordon - I’ve been wanting to try this spot for a minute, especially after featuring it on Back2Besa. Since I wasn’t at that shoot, I had to check it out for myself and see what all the hype was about!

A somber mood settled over Seattle's Central District today as Jackson's Catfish Corner, a culinary landmark and community pillar, served its last meal. The unexpected announcement came this morning via owner Terrell Jackson's Instagram post, leaving patrons and community members stunned and saddened. The line outside the door, filled with people wanting to say their goodbyes and get one last taste of Jackson's famous catfish, spoke volumes about the restaurant's impact.

By Besa Gordon - I finally got to pull up to Moe Vegan in Kent after missing their grand opening, and let me tell you—they did not disappoint! I grabbed the spicy crispy vegan honey chicken wrap and garlic fries, and dude… the flavors were on point! I. Was. SHOCKED. Plus, the vibe inside is super chill—pool table, photobooth, TVs for the game, and a whole lotta positive vibes.