WHEREAS, Black Business Month, observed each August, celebrates the achievements, resilience, and lasting contributions of Black-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators whose leadership strengthens the economies of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Nation while encouraging continued support for the growth and success of Black-owned businesses throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Black-owned businesses have long served as engines of economic opportunity and community development, creating jobs, driving innovation, generating wealth, and expanding access to goods and services while overcoming historic barriers to investment and economic advancement; and

WHEREAS, Black-owned businesses remain an essential part of Virginia's economy, benefiting all Virginians by fostering entrepreneurship, strengthening local communities, and contributing to the Commonwealth's continued prosperity; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth is home to more than 140,000 Black or African American-owned small businesses, with the cities of Richmond and Virginia Beach ranking among the top ten cities in the United States for Black-owned businesses; and

WHEREAS, through the tireless efforts and visionary leadership of Black entrepreneurs, Black-owned businesses have helped uplift countless individuals and families while fostering a deep sense of pride in the communities they serve;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize August 2026 as BLACK BUSINESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.