August is National Black Business Month. A month dedicated to recognizing Black business owners across the country. The month was founded in 2004 by Historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr. to highlight and uplift Black-owned business.

According to Census data, 20.3 percent of businesses in Genesee County are Black- or African American-owned. That is roughly 82,380 businesses in the area.

Individuals can support National Black Business Month by supporting local businesses in Flint & Genesee during the month of August.

Here are a few that you can support today:

Bedrock Apparel

The local boutique apparel featuring t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more. Designs can be customized with colors and style. Bedrock is a local favorite and is known for its comfort and style.

Paints, Chalices & Hues

This local business specializes in paint and sip fun. Currently, offerings include a Paint and Sip at Home Kit, a Virtual Paint Session and an Adult Party session. Paints, Chalices & Hues is located on the corner of E. Atherton and Saginaw in Flint.

The Poke Bowl

Located in Flint’s University Corridor, the Poke Bowl specializes in Hawaiian inspired cuisine, Poke. Although the restaurant has not officially opened, patrons can still get delicious meals to-go or at local businesses including Oliver T’s Market in Grand Blanc and The Local Grocer in Flint.

SheDope Curvy Boutique

With the tagline “Helping the Curvy Queens Look the Best!” SheDope Boutique specializes in plus-sized women’s clothing. The boutique located on N. Balinger Hwy is open Thursday – Saturday or by appointment and also sells clothing on its online store.

Hidden Holistics LLC

This local health and beauty store specializes in providing all-natural and organic skin and hair care, as well as holistic remedies for alignments and illnesses. Located on Beecher Road, Hidden Holistics carries organic tea, shea butter, organic oils, incense, organic soap and more.

Drinks of Essence

This local bartending school located in Burton offers hands-on bartender training, ServSafe Alcohol Certification and fun mixology classes. Mixology classes can be used for team building, corporate events, private groups, or birthday and bachelorette parties.

Eight Ten Nail Bar

Located downtown Flint, Eight Ten Nail Bar is a full-service nail salon featuring gel, acrylic and regular pedicures and manicures.