Hamilton’s 2023 Black Insights Survey Brief

Bridging the Gap: Empowering Black and Racialized Business Owners Through Community and Visibility BLK OWNED

In the winter of 2023, BLK OWNED embarked on a critical mission to understand the challenges and needs of Black and racialized business owners in our community. We conducted the Black Insights Survey, asking business owners a range of questions about their demographics, annual revenue, access to business grants, and overall experience within the business community. The goal was to gauge the level of support these business owners currently receive and identify gaps where BLK OWNED could step in to make a difference.

The survey results highlighted a significant demand for more business training, with 81% of respondents expressing a need for more business training, yet only 29% feeling that they had received sufficient training. This discrepancy underscores the urgent need for more targeted support and resources within our community. 

In response to these findings, BLK OWNED launched three key initiatives: our community platform, business directory, and trailblazer program. These resources were designed to provide the necessary training, education, visibility, and support for Black and racialized business owners to thrive. 

Our community platform, launched in June 2024, offers a space for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering peer mentorship and providing opportunities to learn from industry professionals. With 82% of survey respondents agreeing that having a mentor would benefit their business, this platform serves as a crucial resource for building valuable relationships and gaining insights through BLK OWNED’s networking events and trailblazer workshops.

The business directory, launched in February 2023, is a critical component of our support system. The directory is featured on the BLK OWNED website, showcasing a variety of businesses within the Hamilton region, increasing their visibility, and connecting them with potential customers and collaborators. 

Our trailblazer program, re-launched in June 2024, provides a dynamic hybrid initiative for black and racialized early-staged youth entrepreneurs (18 to 39 years old) with the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurial industry professionals and gain fundamental skills to help improve their businesses. Fundamental skills such as marketing, sales, and financial management. 

Our survey also revealed important demographic insights, with 82% of respondents identifying as women, 15% as men, and 3% as non-binary. We recognize the importance of ensuring that all Black and racialized business owners, including men and non-binary individuals, receive the support they need. BLK OWNED is committed to addressing these disparities and welcomes suggestions from our community on how we can better serve and engage all business owners. 

As we continue to grow and evolve, we invite you to be part of our journey. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter and join our community platform to stay up-to-date on upcoming events and business opportunities. Together, we can create a stronger, more inclusive business community that empowers Black and racialized entrepreneurs to succeed.

Black Insights Survey Brief by: Seretta Goulbourne 
Black Insights Survey Research by: Yosra Musa