Buy Black This Month With Some Of Our Favorite Vendors
There are many ways to honor Black History Month: donate to social justice organizations, volunteer in programs that empower Black communities, and educate yourself on African American history. Another direct way to show your support is to shop at Black-owned businesses.
New and small businesses face disadvantages, with 20% of new businesses facing closure within the first two years, 45% within five years, and 65% during the first 10 years. For Black entrepreneurs, the chances of business success are even less, as eight out of 10 Black-owned businesses fail within the first year and a half.
By supporting businesses within the Black community, you can help close the racial wealth gap and strengthen local economies. This Black History Month, we want to show our support and highlight Black vendors at the Indy Winter Farmers Market.
1. The Botanikal Bar
The Botanikal Bar is a minority and women-owned plant shop that helps connect people to nature by providing beautiful home greenery. In addition to participating in the Indy Winter Farmers Market, the plant company holds plant pop-up experiences with high-quality houseplants that are specially curated and floral-inspired. Houseplants have proven to reduce stress, purify the air, and improve overall mental wellness, and co-founders Christina Fonseca and Victoria Beaty are committed to bringing plants and people together to create a happier and healthier space.
2. Cibo Catering
Chef Whitney Barnett is a lifelong food lover who founded Cibo, a catering company that incorporates sustainable food practices in her business. Whitney mostly cooks Italian and soul food fusion cuisines, though delicious treats, juices, seasonings, and sauces can be found at the farmers market. While many people may be familiar with Whitney’s catering service through her participation at farmers markets, they may not be aware that she is also a private chef who does event planning. Whitney also has a food blog, Positive Foodie Vibes, that highlights all things food-related and Cibo’s upcoming events.
3. Mrs. Murry’s Naturals
Mrs. Murry’s Naturals offers a variety of food including pot pies, soups, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods— all of which are vegan. All of Mrs. Murry’s food is inspired by her own plant-based diet and the positive changes it has had on her physical and mental well-being. While Mrs. Murry’s Naturals does not have a physical location, aside from the Indy’s Farmers Market, their weekly schedule and menu can be found on the company website.
One of the best ways to directly support the Black community is to do research and shop at local Black-owned businesses year-round. Diversifying your shopping can build a more productive and resilient local economy. By shopping from Black-owned businesses, you will help create more opportunities for savings, property ownership, credit building, job creation, and generational wealth for the Black communities.
