TAMPA, Fla. — Small Black-owned businesses are getting a boost to attract more buyers thanks to a new seasonal market in Ybor City this Sunday.
The Indie Noir Market is launching its spring market at the 1920 event space in Ybor City.
What You Need To Know
The Indie Noir Market is launching its spring event in Ybor City
Founded by Camille Washington, it aims to give more opportunities to Black entrepreneurs
The event supports community programs through proceeds and encourages buying from Black-owned businesses
The vendor-focused event will feature artists, small business owners and activities.
The founder of the market, Camille Washington, said she started two years ago with a large annual festival. But she said Black creatives and entrepreneurs still need more opportunities to sell their goods and services. So, she’s now going to host the market in the spring, summer, fall and winter.
“Very often we only support during those times: Black History Month, Juneteenth, and sometimes you’ll get an occasional Black Friday,” she said. “But outside of that, there isn’t a system to truly support our community and those businesses.”
U.S. census data released last year shows Black-owned small businesses brought in almost $130 billion. Hispanic and Asian-owned companies brought in hundreds of billions, and white-owned small companies brought in more than a trillion dollars.
Washington said she’s hoping this empowers Black business owners and inspires others to support them.
The founder for the market, Camille Washington, said she started two years ago with a large annual festival. But she said Black creatives and entrepreneurs still need more opportunities to sell their goods and services. So, she’s now going to host the market in the spring, summer, fall and winter. (Spectrum News/Saundra Weathers)
“Our message is simple,” she said. “Shop small, buy Black, support community, and what we mean by support community is that every dollar you spend here, whether or not it’s upgrading your ticket, enjoying our brunch paint and sip, it always goes back into our community. Whether it’s through small business, artist scholarships, free wellness programs or giving back to nonprofit partners.”
Washington said all the proceeds that she makes organizing the event will be donated right back into the community.
“Whether it’s through small business grants, artist scholarships, free wellness programs, or giving back to our nonprofit programs,” said Washington.
The Indie Noir Spring Market is this Sunday at 10 a.m. at 1920 East 7th Avenue in Ybor City. Yoga, brunch and painting are being offered along with the items and services small business owners are selling.