I have been using AI a lot lately. Which comes with a mixed bag of feelings. As someone who has had to work freelance to pay bills and currently works in a competitive, creative niche….AI is quickly making my skills feel unnecessary in this competitive job market.
But as a small business owner who can not afford to outsource certain things and doesn’t have the time to create everything from scratch, I find AI to be an amazing (and horrifying tool). Most of my usage has been for generating images that I can manipulate later when I can’t find a good stock image. But I have also used it to help with SEO product descriptions (the jury is still out on the success of that one).
So I wanted to see if a blog post could be created that didn’t sound like it was full of shit. With one try and the prompt of “SEO Blog Post About the Importance of Shopping Black Owned Businesses during August,” AI generated the following (including the title):
Title: The Significance of Supporting Black-Owned Businesses this August and Beyond: A Guide to Empowering Change
Introduction:
In a world where economic empowerment holds the key to social progress, supporting Black-owned businesses has emerged as a powerful means of fostering equity and inclusion. This August, as we celebrate Black Business Month, there’s no better time to delve into the importance of shopping from Black-owned businesses and explore the transformative impact it can have on communities and the economy.
1. Celebrating Black Business Month:
August is not only a time of summer fun but also an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments and contributions of Black entrepreneurs. Black Business Month encourages us to recognize the resilience, creativity, and innovation of these business owners, whose enterprises span various industries, from fashion to technology.
2. Economic Empowerment and Wealth Redistribution:
Supporting Black-owned businesses is more than just a consumer choice; it’s an active commitment to reshaping economic landscapes. By diverting our purchasing power towards these businesses, we help to redistribute wealth within historically marginalized communities. This redistribution of resources fosters economic independence and reduces the racial wealth gap, ultimately creating a more equitable society.
3. Fostering Local Community Growth:
Black-owned businesses are often deeply connected to their local communities. These businesses create jobs, provide goods and services, and contribute to the overall vitality of neighborhoods. When we choose to spend our dollars at Black-owned establishments, we invest in the growth of these communities and contribute to their sustainability.
4. Promoting Diversity and Representation:
Representation matters. Supporting Black-owned businesses sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity and inclusion within the business world. When consumers see diverse entrepreneurs succeeding, it not only challenges stereotypes but also inspires future generations to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams regardless of their background.
5. Driving Innovation and Creativity:
Black-owned businesses bring unique perspectives and innovative ideas to the market. By supporting these businesses, we encourage the development of new products, services, and solutions that can benefit society as a whole. A diverse business landscape enhances competition and pushes industries forward through creative disruption.
6. Creating Lasting Change:
The act of shopping at Black-owned businesses is not limited to a single month. It’s a commitment that should extend throughout the year. By consistently supporting these businesses, we contribute to sustainable change and empower entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
7. Tips for Supporting Black-Owned Businesses:
a. Research and Discover: Use online directories and platforms that highlight Black-owned businesses in various industries.
b. Word of Mouth: Spread the word about your positive experiences with Black-owned businesses to encourage others to support them.
c. Engage on Social Media: Follow, like, and share posts from Black-owned businesses to amplify their reach.
d. Attend Events: Participate in local markets, workshops, and events organized by Black entrepreneurs.
e. Collaborate: If you’re a business owner yourself, consider collaborating with Black-owned businesses to foster mutually beneficial partnerships.
Conclusion:
The month of August serves as a reminder to consciously choose where we spend our money. By supporting Black-owned businesses, we contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and thriving economy. This August, let’s celebrate Black Business Month not just as a time of reflection, but as a catalyst for long-term change that ripples through communities and generations, uplifting all of us in the process.
Is that not crazy? I spent hours trying to generate content for clients that this program did in seconds. While AI is not perfect (I can’t tell you how many pictures I have generated with multi-armed people or ones missing limbs), it is a fascinating tool and a game changer. But every day, I wonder if that game changer will be for good. Something tells me the end result will be like the Aliens. We won’t even be surprised. But instead of being smart about it, we are distracted with other things.
In the meantime, here are several black-owned businesses that I think you should check out, not just for August:
Solar Candle Company
J. Antoinette 1927
Azur Scrubs
The Burning Wic Candle and Gift Shop
Dear Life Chat
DyCan Cosmetics
As I explore more black-owned businesses, I want to try and build a directory. But for now, I hope you will check out these amazing businesses.
Any thoughts on AI? Any black-owned shops you recommend I should try?
The Office Black Girl 