Photo via Aggüdo Coffee Roasters
Black History Month may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean we can’t support Black-owned businesses in Calgary year-round.
A 2023 study shows that only 2.1% of businesses in Canada are owned by Black people. This could be because Black entrepreneurs challenges such as limited access to resources, prejudice, and other systemic barriers.
Supporting Black-owned businesses can help close the racial wealth gap, strengthen local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture and communities.
In that spirit, here are five Black-owned businesses in Calgary that you should check out.
Aggüdo means “harmony” in Tigrinya, and is the core principle of this Kensington coffee shop. Founded by an Eritrean immigrant with a deep love for the traditions surrounding coffee, Aggüdo sources sustainably grown beans from Ethiopian farmers and roasts in-house. The result is a cup of coffee that embodies the heart and soul of Ethiopia — AKA, the birthplace of coffee. You’ll taste the difference.
Where: 338 10 St. N.W.
Instagram: @aggudo_coffee
Ellie Bianca owner Evelyne Nyairo is many things: An environmental scientist, an African-Canadian woman, and a proud mother, to name a few. It was these identities, combined with her love of natural beauty, that inspired her to start a company specializing in non-GMO, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced skincare. Ellie Bianca goes deeper than the aesthetic because everyone deserves to love the skin they’re in.
Where: Retail locations here
Instagram: @elliebiancabeauty
This local restaurant is known for its mouth-watering authentic West African meals. Feast on specialties like roasted plantain and fish, jollof rice and chicken, sausage rolls, and meat pies. The family-friendly menu can also be customized for preferences, and there are gluten-free options as well.
Where: 4129 4 St. N.W.
Instagram: @flavoursrestaurant
If you haven’t dined at this award-winning barbeque spot, you’re missing out. Owner Jenny Burthwright worked in the food industry in Toronto before moving to Calgary and opening her barbeque brand. What started as a food truck is now a full-blown restaurant brand and catering company. Jenny also took the national stage, competing as a finalist on Food Network’s Fire Masters.
Where: 321 723 46 Ave. S.E.
Instagram: @janebondbbq
Meet Sade Babatunde, the fashion icon behind Knit Me Up. As a personal stylist and shopper, Sade can cleanse your closet, do your shopping for you, and work with you to find a personal style that you love. She also works with all body types, striking a perfect balance of pushing comfort zones and ensuring confidence. Her website is full of free articles with fashion advice, for anyone who wants to glimpse her expertise.
Where: Schedule a free consultation online
Instagram: @knitmeup.style
These are just a sample of the Black-owned businesses that are thriving in Calgary, but they’re a great place to start when it comes to supporting the people and communities who contribute to making this city a vibrant and wonderful place to live.
Related Posts:
Shop local at these 6 independent bookstores in Calgary
Sustainable & stylish vintage clothing stores to check out in Calgary
With cafes and bookstores all across the city!
As Halloween approaches, there's no better time to queue up a few scary movies, and…
Before the snow transforms the golden hillsides of Kimberley, B.C., the striking region offers visitors…
A new festival is making its debut in Calgary this weekend, and the focus is…
Check these spots out before winter hits!
Science World is officially getting a Halloween makeover, and it couldn't come at a better…