5 Unfiltered Truths Black-Owned Brands Wish You Knew (But Rarely Say Out Loud)

Written By Edwan Abang

From founder interviews to real receipts, here’s what we’ve learned from hundreds of brands across the globe

I’ve spent the last 10 months building what’s on track to become the largest global discovery platform for African and Black-owned brands.

In the process, I’ve researched over 200 brands — from luxury skincare studios in Accra to Canadian streetwear collectives and Black-owned cafés in Finland.

One thing has become crystal clear: There are things Black-owned brands wish their customers really understood.

Not just the “buy Black” soundbites.
But the actual realities.
The micro-drama behind the “sold out” sign. The reason your order took two weeks. The hidden stories behind that £25 body butter.

So let’s talk about it.

“The issue isn’t laziness or poor planning. It’s cash flow.”

1. Funding Gaps Aren’t Just Numbers—They’re Nightmares

Black founders are still more likely to be denied loans, even with the same credit profile as their white peers.

Many are bootstrapping, maxing out credit cards, or relying on family.

And yet, they’re showing up and delivering excellence

Only 1% of UK venture funding goes to Black founders-Think With Google article (2023).


In the US, the average Black-owned business starts with $35K in capital, vs. $107K for white-owned - Black Ambition Prize (2025)

“I was denied a fifth loan—even with a 780 credit score—while a fast‑fashion giant ripped off my design the next day.”
— Founder, London‑based fashion brand

That single story sums it up: Black entrepreneurs build against the odds. And as consumers, we can make or break them with every click, comment, and cart.

So, when you wonder why a business is sold out, takes 2 weeks to ship, or hasn't restocked yet? The issue isn't laziness nor poor planning— it's cash flow.

2. Community Reinvestment Is Their Secret Sauce

“We don’t just want to sell to our people. We want to uplift and educate them.”
— Jumoke Faniyi - NaturalVital

Many Black-owned brands are quietly doing the work. Whether it’s:

These brands are creating systems, not just sales.

So yes, that £25 body butter is doing more than hydrating your skin — it’s nourishing villages, cooperatives, entire creative ecosystems.

3. They Fill the Gaps Big Industry Ignores

Big beauty left us out. Big fashion overlooked us. These brands stepped in

You know that product you’ve been dying to find? The foundation shade that finally matches.

The satin-lined hoodie that actually fits your twist-out. The naturally sourced skincare products, the handmade beaded dress, the non-ashy SPF?

It didn’t come from the big guys. It came from your community.

We’re talking:

Supporting them isn’t charity — it’s demand meeting innovation.

4. They Build Under the Spotlight (and the Microscope)

Behind every polished launch is a maze of challenges.

  • Limited access to mentorship

  • Pressure to “prove” legitimacy

  • Supply‑chain migraines

  • Social‑media algorithm purgatory

  • Founder burnout

And still, they show up with packaging, service and storytelling that rivals the biggest names in the game.

So yes, grace goes a long way. That slightly delayed order? It might be a one-woman team hand-packing your parcel after her 9–5.

5. They Don’t Want Customers — They Want Co-Builders

You’re not just a buyer. You’re a builder. Every like, comment, tag, and DM makes an impact

Some of the strongest growth moments we’ve seen came from one well-placed TikTok, one unexpected review, and one loyal tribe.

Visibility is currency. And for many brands, your word-of-mouth is more powerful than any paid ad.

Final Word: You’re Not Just a Buyer. You’re the Bridge

If you leave thinking your one‑time purchase “did the job,” - Umm, not really.

So here’s your mission, should you choose to:
Do one more thing.
Tag a founder. Leave a review. Share this post. Nominate a brand to be featured.

Then come back tomorrow — and do it again.

Shop Intentionally: Explore MBG’s 200+ Global Brands

Stay In The Loop: Subscribe to our Bi-Weekly Dispatch

Shine A Light: Nominate a Brand You Love

Because when Black-owned brands rise, so do we all.

Edwan Abang https://www.myblackgallery.com
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