Small Business Week Is a Call to Build Black Wealth in Dayton

National Small Business Week is more than a celebration, it is a call to action, especially here in Dayton.

Black-owned businesses have long been pillars in our community — creating jobs, stabilizing neighborhoods, and building pathways to generational wealth. From West Dayton to growing corridors across the region, entrepreneurs continue to push forward despite ongoing challenges.

Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers. That's where organizations like the Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) are making a real difference locally. Through its Dayton presence, ECDI provides free business counseling, training, and access to responsible lending — helping entrepreneurs move from idea to sustainability and growth.

But building a stronger Black business ecosystem in Dayton requires all of us.

We must be intentional about supporting local businesses, connecting entrepreneurs to opportunities, and ensuring they have access to contracts, capital, and mentorship. Whether it's choosing to shop locally, referring a business, or advocating for equitable opportunities, every action matters. If we don't support where we live, work, worship, and play, how can we expect anyone else to do it. We have to be responsible for our city's success.

Small Business Week reminds us of the strength and potential within our community. There is no better time like right now to invest – right here at home.

Because when Black businesses in Dayton grow, our entire city moves forward together.

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Donerik Black is the Owner and Publisher of the Dayton Weekly News. Donerik is also the Director of the Contractor Resource Center (CRC) at the Economic & Community Development Institute (ECDI).

For more information about ECDI please visit the website: www.ecdi.org or feel free to contact Donerik directly at dblack@ecdi.org