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For many Black entrepreneurs, the support of family is crucial for success. From providing funding and encouragement to being the inspiration to start a business or partnering to transform an idea into reality, the role families can play in business success is truly special, and often essential.

This is especially true the past few years, when the pandemic has made owning a business even more challenging. And while all small businesses have been impacted, our recent Global State of Small Business Report revealed it has disproportionately affected Black-owned small businesses the most. In fact, 51% of Black-led small businesses reported lower sales performance compared to the U.S. average of 36%.

Now more than ever, Black business owners have leaned on the support of family to persevere, and thankfully, with the support of both younger and older generations, many Black entrepreneurs are not just surviving but thriving.

Here are some stories about real Black entrepreneurs about how their families propelled their business success.

Irene Walker, Program Director, Meta Elevate

Writing since February 2022 · 1 story contributed