August is recognized as Black Business Month, a time to celebrate and patronize Black-owned businesses across the country. The history of it can be traced back to 2004, when an entrepreneur and a president of a scholarly publishing company combined efforts to create a holiday to support and encourage Black-owned businesses.
To celebrate Black Business Month, we’d like to share several of the many Black-owned businesses that call Uptown home. Our goal is to encourage support in August and all year long---especially since the businesses are making a big impact on the region’s economy.
A recent study by The Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) found that 800 Black-owned businesses in Greater Cincinnati generated at least $1.4 billion in economic impact last year.
Additionally, the AACC recently launched AACConomics.com, an online database showcasing the latest statistics and economic information on Black businesses. It features the results of a survey of Black businesses and the results of the study on the economic impact of Black businesses. The organization is celebrating its 25th anniversary of serving as a trusted resource for data on Black-owned businesses and their economic impact.
“Black-owned businesses are important to our local and regional economy,” says Beth Robinson, President and CEO of Uptown Consortium, Inc. “Black Business Month is an opportunity to support Uptown’s unique minority-owned businesses, and it helps to shine a spotlight on the support they deserve all year long.”
ZOLA’S BAR AND GRILL
Coming soon to Uptown is Zola’s Bar and Grill AfroLatino Fusion Bar. Zola will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offer dine-in or take-out options. The restaurant is also planning to have regular live entertainment. Zola’s is opening in the new Avondale Town Center.
ALABAMA QUE
Dawn Ward opened Alabama Que in 2008 and moved to Short Vine in May of 2012. He is known for his famous turkey tips and for providing healthier options for BBQ enthusiasts and non-pork eaters. Alabama Que has become a hot spot for locals and celebrities alike. Recently, Dawn began updating the shop and is taking his son along for the journey to being an entrepreneur. Learn more about Alabama Que online and follow-on Facebook here.
CLASSIX BARBERSHOP
Classix offers classic barbering services in Uptown, including shaves, haircuts, and skincare. Barbers Tony Spokes, James Scott, and John McQuiller keep things relaxed in the shop while providing top-notch service. Learn more about the barbershop online or to make an appointment call (513) 429-3656.
CONSCIOUS KITCHEN
Located along Short Vine, Conscious Kitchen focuses on affordable healthier food options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes. Learn more about the variety of food options on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
ISLAND FRYDAYS
Featured on Guy Fieri’s show Diners, Drive-ins, Dives, Island Frydays is a Caribbean-themed restaurant. Started by Leo Morgan after he graduated from the University of Cincinnati, the restaurant offers everything from jerk chicken to curry goat. Check out their full menu on the website and visit their pick-up window today.
KILIMANJARO AFRICAN ART
In operation since 1986, Kilimanjaro African Art is devoted to collecting and selling African Art and other products, including clothing, jewelry, fabric, books, and music. Check out the entire collection online and visit the Clifton based store today.
PAUSE CINCY
A collective of several health and wellness businesses, Pause Cincy, offers alternative and holistic health items such as crystals, juices, plants and candles. You can keep up with the latest products and events on the Instagram page.
CINCINNATI HEALING ARTS
A wellness studio that focuses on the health of the individual, family, and community. Dr. Maddox is a chiropractor and nutritionist. Her practice focuses on chiropractic health care, personal injury care, and functional nutrition. Learn more about Dr. Maddox and her practice on Cincinnati Healing Arts’ website.
THE SWEET PLACE
With a goal to satisfy every sweet tooth out there, The Sweet Place on Short Vine offers a variety of sweet treats from hand baked goods to hand rolled ice cream. Their treats are available for takeout or delivery through many food delivering services. Check out their menu daily as items change. Visit their website for more information.
MS. J WORLD SALON & DAY SPA
Offering a variety of salon services, Ms. J World Salon and Day Spa has all your hair needs covered. Ms. Jay believes in constantly learning and has perfected her craft over the years. She believes in healthy hair and is versed in many different types and textures of hair. For a full list of services available, check out her website or visit her Facebook page.
This is only a sample of the many amazing Black-owned businesses in Uptown and Cincinnati. For a full list of businesses to support in August visit The Voice of Black Cincinnati.