At @blkcreatives and @theculturelp, we believe in community over clout and honoring those who are doing the inner and external work. It has been far from smooth sailing since the COVID-19 pandemic began, however entrepreneurs all over the country have been able to use Square to navigate change and keep their businesses moving. Square believes in a more inclusive future, and that Black businesses are not only crucial for that goal, they are also helping to pave the path. So, over the past couple of months we have worked together to shine a light on some Black Chicago entrepreneurs as well as movers and shakers in Atlanta who are working towards that future, and paying tribute to the importance and influence of Black entrepreneurs all over the country.

As a part of our program, we hosted themed twitter chats knowledge and resources specific to the cities of Atlanta and Chicago. Some of our favorite gems are below.

• "All the planning in the world won't save you if you're not open to change." - Danni

• "A starting point w/ keeping the dollar in the community is by having a collective presence not only w/ the local businesses but w/ one another. Get to know ur neighbors + share resources w/ each other. Capital isn’t always green, it's also info that helps others up the ladder." - Adrian

• "We need to be mindful that we aren’t perpetuating harmful work practices that are rooted in White Supremacy. What’s the point if we back on another plantation?" - Lisa B.

• "I strongly recommend revisiting the methods for bolstering our communities used by those that came before us like S.B. Fuller. The Black mass exodus of the ‘40’s mirrors what’s happening now. He had the keys back then." - Dometi

Atlanta was the first city we showed love to, hosting two twitter chats, packed with insight on how to support the local community as well as tips on relocating responsibly when it comes to the A.

• “Doing business with Black companies shouldn’t be a trend. It shouldn’t be an afterthought. It must be intentional and part of our daily lives,” Kia Smith tweeted. “If you sit at a table that makes decisions about business 2 business partnerships or hires consultants, make sure Black businesses and professionals are being considered. Or even better, if you’re a consumer, make sure the products you purchase most often are from Black-owned companies. Everything from my whiskey to my makeup to my feminine products are from Black-owned companies.”

• “Start in your Atlanta neighborhood, and go beyond,” advised Mike Jordan. “Visit that Mom/Pop restaurant. Buy art from Atlanta artists. Shop and hire local. Give back. Be a true ATLien. Charity AND investment begin at home. Show love.”

• “The biggest growth opportunities for black businesses will be along the lines of commercial real estate, technology: software based startups, fintech, and agtech,” shared King. “Restaurants, political lobbyists, and education are immediate growth industries for Black people in ATL.”

• “Make sure to really learn about the history and current politics here and what’s going in terms of government regulations etc,” Junae tweeted. “If you’re from ‘up north’ do remember that this is still the SOUTH; If you’re moving and not familiar with the city utilize platforms like promove to help find the perfect place & area to live in (it’s free!).”

Alongside our virtual discussions on how to support and push the future of these legendary cities, our teams brought a sample of what they had to offer through our curated care packages, and custom illustrations. Some of our favorite community members in Atlanta and Chicago received:

• cozy apparel from Honor Roll and Sir and Madame

• skin care essentials by Pear and Nova and Iwi Fresh

• organic tea samplers from Just Add Honey

• reading materials from Semi Colon

All of which were featured on Square’s website, and on billboards throughout the city.

Learn more about Square’s The Future is Built initiative and Shop Black Owned today.