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Black History Month: Achievements in Business

Last Updated: February 6, 2024

We must never forget that Black History is American History. The achievements of African Americans have contributed to our nation’s greatness.

Yvette Clarke

Black History Month

Black History Month, observed annually in February in the United States is a dedicated period for recognizing and celebrating the achievements, contributions, and history of African Americans. The month-long observance serves as a time to honor the rich heritage and the significant impact of Black individuals on various aspects of society. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing challenges faced by the Black community. Black History Month encourages education, awareness, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion, fostering a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural narratives that shape the world. Throughout the month, various events, activities, and educational initiatives take place to highlight the achievements of Black leaders, pioneers, and everyday heroes who have played pivotal roles in shaping the course of history.

A Rich Legacy

Black history is rich with achievements, contributions, and milestones in the business world. These are just a few examples of the many Black entrepreneurs and business leaders who have made significant contributions throughout history. Their achievements have not only shaped the business landscape but also paved the way for future generations of Black entrepreneurs.

David Steward (1951 – present):

David Steward is the billionaire founder and chairman of World Wide Technology (WWT), a leading technology solution provider. WWT is a global technology integrator that provides innovative IT solutions and services to large public and private organizations.

Madam C.J. Walker (1867–1919):

Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was an African American entrepreneur and the first female self-made millionaire in the United States. She achieved success by creating and marketing a line of beauty and hair care products for Black women.

Robert L. Johnson (1946–present):

Robert L. Johnson is an American entrepreneur who founded Black Entertainment Television (BET), the first cable television network aimed at African American audiences. He is the first African American billionaire.

Oprah Winfrey (1954–present):

Oprah Winfrey is a media mogul, television host, and philanthropist. She is the founder of Harpo Productions and OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network), and she has made significant contributions to the media and entertainment industry.

Daymond John (1969–present):

Daymond John is an entrepreneur and investor best known as the founder of the fashion brand FUBU. He is also a well-known investor on the reality TV show “Shark Tank.”

Maggie Lena Walker (1864–1934):

Maggie Lena Walker was the first African American woman to charter a bank in the United States. She founded St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in 1903, which later merged with two other banks to become the Consolidated Bank and Trust Company.

Reginald F. Lewis (1942–1993):

Reginald F. Lewis was a lawyer and entrepreneur who became the first African American to build a billion-dollar company, TLC Beatrice International Holdings.

Ursula Burns (1958–present):

Ursula Burns is a businesswoman who made history as the first Black woman to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Xerox Corporation.

Tyler Perry (1969–present):

Tyler Perry is a highly successful filmmaker, playwright, and actor. He is the founder of Tyler Perry Studios and is known for creating and producing numerous successful films and television shows.

Janice Bryant Howroyd (1952–present):

Janice Bryant Howroyd is the founder and CEO of The ActOne Group, one of the largest woman-minority-owned employment agencies in the United States.

Robert F. Smith (1962 – present):

Robert F. Smith is an American billionaire businessman and investor. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners. Vista Equity Partners is a private equity firm that focuses on investing in software, data, and technology-enabled businesses.

Mellody Hobson (1969 – present):

Mellody Hobson, an American businesswoman, is the co-CEO and president of Ariel Investments. She also serves as the chairwoman of Starbucks Corporation, becoming the first black woman to serve as the chair of a S&P 500 company.