11 Businesses Run by Women of Color You Should Know

International Women’s Day celebrates “the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women” and amplifies the contributions of women around the world in every sector of society. This year’s theme, #BalanceForBetter, pushes people to ask themselves what they can do to increase gender equality in their own communities — at home, at work, with friends, and in their neighborhoods. Another place to consider equality is in spending and time: “Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive,” the IWD campaign states. Are you supporting the women-owned businesses in your communities?

Being intentional about how you spend your hard-earned money can take time and a little more effort — but there are plenty of women running companies that might interest you. Check out the following favorites from Jopwell staffers and add a few of these to your list.

Company: Pink Moon Why It’s Great: “It’s an independent strategic branding company focused on elevating women-owned mission-driven, indie eco / ethical beauty & wellness brands.”- Corliss Lee

Company: Sistas in Sales Why It’s Great: “This organization focuses on bringing together WOC in the business and sales industries. I’ve attended a few of their events and at the end, I always feel empowered.” - Diana Calle

Company: Cadence Candle Co Why It’s Great: “Cadence Candle Co, specializes in three signature scents that are crafted to enlighten a particular mood. Each scent comes with a thoughtful, handcrafted playlist to accompany this vibe. The energy you can produce through scent and sound is irrevocable. My good friend, Taelor Salmon started this recently and has found great success!” - Rohan Jones

Company: Cee Suite Why It’s Great: “Cindy spent nearly 20 years in talent acquisition before launching her own consulting company; she’s able to provide holistic solutions across the talent space. Also, she was my first boss and is a pretty awesome person :-)” - Annie Hopkins

Company: Blk Mkt Vintage Why It’s Great: “The founders, Kiyanna Stewart and Jannah Handy, source unique, high-quality products (including African masks, handmade bags, letterman jackets, and more), and present them in a lovely way at pop-up markets and online. I always want to buy everything I see.” - Judith Ohikuare

Company: DigitalUndivided Why It’s Great: DigitalUndivided focuses on empowering Black and Latinx women through technology and innovation. They pioneered the widely covered #ProjectDiane research project about the overlooked state of Black women in the tech entrepreneurship space. - Alberto Tornes

Company: Uncharted Power Why It’s Great: “Jessica Matthews first invented a soccer ball that generates electricity for an attachable reading lamp - with the idea of its practical use in developing countries with lacking infrastructure. Her company partners with product manufacturers across industries, putting recharging technology in everyday products.”- Iris Malfetano

Company: House of Brand Therapy Why It’s Great: “Naya (who sometimes goes by ‘Naya The Creative’) runs the business and is focused on helping founders, especially founders of color, elevate their business’ brand or their personal brand. She also runs startup bootcamps and other services that are centered on empowering underrepresented founders.”- Ryan Williams

Company: MiMConnect Why It’s Great: “MiMConnect went from a group chat to a growing community of minority creatives all over the US. MiMConnect helps its members with job tips, opportunities, salary negotiation conversations, and dope events to attend. It is a true example of “do it for the culture.” - Tiara Budd

Company: Journey to Launch Why It’s Great: “Jamila Souffrant writes and shares her financial independence journey on her podcast, but has recently launched a member club to provide listeners with support and tools to improve their personal finance. She also provides one-on-one coaching.”- Dannielle Romoleroux

Company: Pontie Wax Why It’s Great: “I’m sensitive to smells but really love scented candles — not usually a good mix. Shante’ Cozier’s soy wax candles come in a variety of scents (that change season to season) from subtle to a little more in-your-face. My current favorite is vanilla caramel.”- Judith Ohikuare