4 Black-Owned Businesses Ushering A New Wave Of Entrepreneurship

Innovations shaped the world as we know it, and now, in the 21st century, Black entrepreneurs continue to transform our lives with new gadgets. Here are four Black-owned businesses that are changing the world - one invention at a time.

Featured in Oprah’s 2023 Favorite Things List, ROQ Innovation’s 2017 invention, Headlightz, is a rechargeable LED beanie perfect for any adventure. Whether you are going for a run outside, walking a pet, or maybe shoveling snow, this stylish accessory will not only light up your style, but Headlightz, created by Founder Raquel Graham, will also light up your surroundings during any nighttime activity. The accessories vary from a beanie, with multiple color options, to headbands and baseball caps. A full charge of the LED light will take an hour and a half but will give you up to eight hours of usable activity. The business also offers matching glove sets along with adult and children sets. Prices for these items range from $24.99 to $36 and can be purchased online.

Whether you are working, running last-minute errands, or out of town, it might be easy to forget to water your plants at home, in the office, or your garden. But these eco-friendly self-watering planters make remembering to water plants a thing of the past. Posie Pots —founded by Kay Wells — creates an easier and effortless experience. The signature water reservoir will keep your flowers watered for a full month and the company offers a plethora of seasonal designs. For example, the fall floral, which ranges from $90 to $180, are lightweight holders offered in gold and silver. Plus, the general pots, including twisted pots of various sizes, square holders, and botanical washboard designs, make a statement with their unique designs. The items range from $25 for a small wave plant to $180 for a super washboard planter. The luxurious planters are available in various colors, including black, white, ruby, sapphire, and much more.

The Cut Buddy has an edge in the grooming industry as the brand helps perfect the barbershop look. This at-home gadget makes haircutting and grooming simple, avoiding the hassle of accidental mistakes. The business — founded by Joshua Esnard — continues to grow with premium tools emerging, such as Bald Buddy, the Cut Buddy shaping tool, and a beginner clipper set. All products provide a guide to reduce any errors by helping line up any beard, mustache, and hairline. Suitable for all users and updated designs, the Cut Buddy continues to evolve to perfect home haircuts. The products range from $20 to $60, with individual items, such as attachments and creams, sold as well. Discount programs are offered for Veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and students. The items can be bought online and Walmart, Meijer, and Target nationwide.

The Twist It Up comb is the newest alternative to a traditional comb to make it easier and cleaner to twist Afrocentric hair. The stainless steel design, resembling a tennis racquet, allows one to rotate by gently coiling and twisting your hair from the roots up. This technique is drastically different from traditional models and includes detachable twists for all hair lengths. Durable and convenient, the comb fits perfectly in your pocket and can last for several years, according to its website. The portable product, created by Noel Durityis washable, allows one to easily clean it with a brush and warm water after every use. Priding itself on hygiene, the product is designed to not absorb any hair products in one's hair. The products from the combs to shampoo and conditioner, range from $25 to $50, and can be purchased in black, red, and blue.