5 Black Entrepreneurs Who Made History

Did you know that there are more than 2 million Black-owned businesses in the US, employing nearly 920,000 people?

Thirty-five percent of those owners are women, and 70% report being happy with their businesses. While the most popular category of Black-owned business is healthcare, other popular categories include advertising firms, auto dealerships, laundry services, and repair and maintenance.

To raise support for Black entrepreneurs, we’ve created this guide that highlights three successful founders and creators. Keep reading!

1. Daymond John

As the founder of the iconic streetwear brand FUBU, John is a self-made millionaire and an influential voice in the world of fashion and business. His rags-to-riches story is the stuff of legend, and his impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. But John is more than just a successful businessman; he’s also a powerful advocate for black entrepreneurship.

Throughout his career, John has been a vocal champion of black-owned businesses, and he has used his platform to shine a spotlight on the achievements of black entrepreneurs.

2. Michael Jordan

In the world of business, Michael Jordan is considered a visionary and a pioneer. He is someone who black entrepreneurs who made history can look to as an example of what is possible. Michael Jordan is a global icon and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

His brand is synonymous with success, and he has helped to break down barriers for black entrepreneurs all over the world. When it comes to business, Michael Jordan is a true game-changer.

3. Jackie Summers

Jackie Summers is one of the most famous Black entrepreneurs for several reasons—perhaps the most notable being that at one point, he was the only Black man to hold a license to distill a spirit.

To his name, he had the recipe for Sorel, a liqueur that once outsold everything except for St‑Germain in NYC (where competition is nothing if not stiff). The inspiration for Sorel was sorrel, a hibiscus rum punch drunk in Caribbean countries for centuries.

By creating a shelf-stable version, Summers effectively built upon the legacy of his Black ancestors.

4. Adelanwa Adesanya

Adelanwa Adesanya is the president and co-founder of Moving Analytics, a company that combines technology with healthcare to bring home-based care to patients. The ultimate goal is to improve cardiac attack treatment by giving patients quality care even when they’re not at the hospital.

Moving Analytics features both virtual cardiac rehab and prevention programs, helping individuals to thrive after heart disease. The hope he instills through this company is priceless—just ask its users.

5. Noëlle Santos

You can’t talk about Black entrepreneurs without mentioning Black women entrepreneurs! Noëlle Santos is the founder of The Lit. Bar, the only independent bookstore in the Bronx.

This path was something Santos never had in mind for herself. Before The Lit. Bar, Santos was an HR director and IT employee that just loved to read. She frequented Barnes & Noble, the only bookstore in the Bronx (home to over a million residents).

The Lit. Bar is a cozy, well-frequented bookshop that also features a wine bar and hosts readings and events.

These Successful Black Entrepreneurs Are Minding Their Business

These are just a few of the many Black entrepreneurs out there making and creating.

Let their stories inspire you—whether that’s to create a business of your own or to spread awareness about Black business owners.

For more moving stories like these, head back to our homepage and see what else we have to offer!