As part of an expanded effort to help black business owners cope with the fallout from the ongoing pandemic, Facebook announced that it’s hosting its first ever #BuyBlack Summit. which will take place on the 24th of 2021.
This event is free, and will be held virtually, and Facebook has invited Actress and Comedian, Michelle Buteau, to be the host. The summit will also feature speakers like Shelly Bell of Black Girl Ventures and Arian Simone of Fearless Fund. According to Facebook, “Discussions will include topics such as learning to drive sales ahead of the holiday season and how to access capital for small businesses, while providing opportunities to connect with Black business owners.”
As you can see, the program is scheduled with a series of workshops and panel discussions with experts who will give you specific ideas on how to use Facebook tools to grow your business. Ahead of August 24th, Facebook is giving you an 18-page PDF guide on the importance of inclusive representation for brands, and how they can help amplify Black voices throughout August.
Facebook says this initiative is part of its expanded support program, to continue investing in the Black community and celebrating Black-owned businesses, “which”, according to the company, has suffered major impacts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This year,” Facebook says, “we’ll keep the momentum going with new ways to make an impact, including a free, one-day virtual summit, resources and spotlights on several Black-owned businesses.”
Last year, the University of California conducted a study which confirmed that about 40% of black-owned businesses had to close at the start of the pandemic, compared with 17% of companies owned by Whites. Facebook also reported in October last year that Black-owned businesses were closing twice as fast as other small businesses, due to the pandemic.
With this in mind, and with the wider discussion of tackling social inequality, it makes sense to place more emphasis on black-owned brands and, whenever possible, provide them with guidance and guidance to help them reduce their current weight and stress levels.
Because the Coronavirus is not over with us yet. While vaccine use continues and many areas want to reopen, vaccine resistance and new forms of the COVID-19 strain appear to be keeping many businesses in and out of lockdown at the moment. With this in mind, this is an important Facebook initiative that will help companies better understand how to keep their business going and maximize their opportunities using Facebook tools.
Facebook shared more about its #BuyBlack Summit here, and registration is also ongoing.
