Business and Finance
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Business and Finance
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"New Exhibit Celebrates Black Entrepreneurship"

By Anya Sharma, Staff Writer

WASHINGTON (April 4th, 2026) - A new exhibit at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, "Making a Change: The Stories of Black Businesses," isn't just a historical recounting; it's a powerful testament to ingenuity, resilience, and the critical role Black entrepreneurship has played - and continues to play - in shaping American society. Opening this weekend, the exhibit moves beyond simple recognition of Black-owned businesses, delving into the complex history and ongoing challenges faced by these vital community cornerstones.

For generations, Black businesses have functioned as far more than simply purveyors of goods and services. They have been essential economic drivers in communities often overlooked and underserved. While the exhibit highlights iconic businesses like barbershops, beauty salons, pharmacies, and funeral homes - spaces deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of many Black communities - it also emphasizes the broader spectrum of entrepreneurial ventures undertaken by African Americans throughout history. These weren't just businesses; they were safe havens, gathering places, and crucial sources of employment and opportunity during periods of intense segregation and systemic oppression.

Curator Shiola Backo explains that the exhibit aims to illuminate the sheer determination of Black entrepreneurs who navigated, and often defied, incredible odds. "These individuals didn't just start businesses," Backo states. "They built institutions in the face of actively hostile environments. They created opportunities where none existed." The exhibit meticulously showcases this history through over 100 artifacts, including a poignant 1930s cookbook from a Black catering company in Richmond, Virginia, revealing the culinary artistry and business acumen of the time. A barber's well-worn shears from Atlanta serve as a tangible link to a profession that historically provided not just grooming services, but also a space for community dialogue and connection. Intimate letters between a funeral home owner and his family highlight the deeply personal and compassionate nature of many Black-owned businesses, acting as anchors for communities grappling with loss and grief.

However, "Making a Change" doesn't shy away from acknowledging the systemic barriers that have historically hampered Black entrepreneurship. The exhibit directly addresses the persistent difficulties in accessing capital, a problem that continues to plague Black-owned businesses today. This isn't simply a historical issue. A 2022 McKinsey report, cited within the exhibit, demonstrates a stark reality: Black-owned businesses are demonstrably less likely to receive funding from traditional lending institutions, and consequently, have a significantly higher failure rate within their initial years. The report's findings underscore the need for targeted initiatives to address these inequities and create a more level playing field.

The exhibit expands on this point by illustrating the lasting impact of discriminatory policies like redlining and the historical denial of access to credit. These practices haven't disappeared; their legacy continues to shape economic disparities, limiting opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to thrive. The exhibit features interactive displays outlining the history of discriminatory lending practices and connects them to modern-day challenges, allowing visitors to understand the deep roots of these issues.

Beyond documenting the past, the exhibit consciously seeks to inspire future generations. It showcases contemporary Black entrepreneurs making waves in various industries - from tech startups to sustainable agriculture - and emphasizes the importance of supporting these businesses in the present. The Smithsonian is partnering with several organizations to provide resources and mentorship opportunities for aspiring Black entrepreneurs in the Washington D.C. area.

"We want people to leave this exhibit not only with a greater understanding of the historical context but also with a renewed sense of responsibility to actively support Black-owned businesses in their own communities," Backo emphasized. "This isn't just about economic empowerment; it's about fostering a more equitable and inclusive society."

"Making a Change: The Stories of Black Businesses" runs through July 28th at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It is a critical and timely exhibit, offering a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of Black entrepreneurship and the urgent need to dismantle the systemic barriers that continue to impede its full potential. The exhibit website (https://nmaahc.si.edu/exhibitions/making-change) provides further information, including a virtual tour and a schedule of related events.


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