Black Entrepreneur Speakers
Black entrepreneurs are vital to the economy, yet they face persistent financial barriers that hinder business growth. While 44% apply for loans, only 32% receive full funding, and 37% report predatory loan terms. Access to capital remains a top concern for 86% of Black small business owners. Despite these challenges, their resilience shines through, with 81% remaining optimistic about the future. By hiring a Black entrepreneur to speak at your event, you bring fresh, authentic perspectives shaped by resilience, innovation, and lived experience, offering invaluable insights into overcoming adversity, driving inclusive growth, and inspiring the next generation of diverse leaders.
Hugh Woozencroft
Board Member of the Black Collective of Media in Sport, Broadcast Journalist for the BBC & ITVFunmi Onamusi
Chief People Officer of the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust & Former Director of DEI at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation TrustSandra Johnson
Founder & Certified CMI Coach at Sandra Johnson UK, Former Head of OGD Engagement & Growth at HM Revenue & CustomsJo-Ann Rolle
Former Economist & Operations Research Analyst for the US Federal Government & Retired Dean of the School of Business at Medgar Evers CollegeSizakele Marutlulle
Founder & CEO of Marutlulle & Co, Former Chief Marketing Officer for BarclaysWhat Obstacles Do Black Entrepreneurs Face?
Black entrepreneurs face significant obstacles, particularly around access to finance and systemic bias. Only 13% seek support from banks, with many relying on family loans instead, reflecting a lack of trust – only 43% believe financial providers have their best interests at heart. Societal racism remains a major barrier, with 53% of Black business owners reporting direct experiences of it. These challenges create additional hurdles to growth, funding, and long-term sustainability for Black-owned businesses in the UK.
Source: Lloyds Banking Group
Why is it Important to Support Black-Owned Business?
Supporting Black-owned business is vital for a stronger, more inclusive economy. These businesses employ around 3 million people, contribute an estimated £5 billion in taxes annually, and are more likely to innovate than non-ethnic minority firms. Despite this, they face persistent barriers to finance and support. Many are small or micro-enterprises, yet they play a crucial role in local communities. With the right backing, Black-led businesses have the potential to grow even further and boost the UK economy significantly.
Source: Social Market Foundation
How Can I Support Black-Owned Business?
You can support Black-owned business by buying their products, amplifying their visibility, and investing in their growth. Supporting Black-led enterprises not only helps address economic disparities but also drives inclusive growth and strengthens communities across the UK. Furthermore, our range of Black entrepreneurial speakers including Steven Bartlett, Piers Linney, and Levi Roots are available for you to book for events, offering powerful insights into resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity to enrich audiences while promoting representation.
Discover our top Black business leaders to hire by reading our official guide: The UK’s 10 Black Business Leaders Inspiring Britain
To hire a Black entrepreneur to speak at your event, contact The BAME Speakers Agency today! Call 0203 9317 392 or complete our online contact form, and one of our agents will be in touch to assist.
