Best Black-Owned Businesses 2026 – Forbes Vetted

“Whenever there’s something special to celebrate, I bring out my favorite Estelle Colored Glass Champagne Flutes and pop open a bottle of bubbly. The beloved brand, created by Stephanie Summerson Hall, is known for crafting stunning handblown glass cake stands and stemware in sweet pastels and rich gemstone hues. Pick up this multicolored set of six champagne glasses for a housewarming gift or as a festive way to upgrade your next celebration.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Albany Park’s top-rated, beautifully designed furniture is featured on our lists of the most comfortable couches, most comfortable chairs and best reading chairs. Its modular couches and arm chairs stand out for their spaciousness, timeless design, feather-wrapped foam cushioning, rich colors and wide range of fabrics (including pet-friendly and family-friendly options).” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“Ghanaian-born Nana Quagraine founded this online home decor retailer in 2018 to bring African design traditions to the global market. It now stocks a range of handmade home goods from more than 50 different designers representing every corner of the continent. What I find fascinating about the website is that you can shop not only by category (pillows, furniture, rugs, etc.), but also by region. The cross-category offerings showcase an array of styles, from playful to chic to avant-garde to boho, so whatever your aesthetic, there’s likely something for you. I’m personally waiting for a high-ceilinged apartment to splurge on one of the magnificent chandeliers.” —Luke Fater, associate branded content editor

“One platform I genuinely respect and recommend is Goodee. I like it because the curation is thoughtful and the products feel considered and well-made, especially for home and kitchen pieces. Nothing feels disposable or overly trend-driven, which matters to me when I’m advising clients on what will actually last in a real home.” —Jan Odesanya, principal interior designer at Mondän & Co Interiors (and frequent expert source for Forbes Vetted furniture and textiles stories)

“Jackie Aina co-founded this luxury candle and fragrance business at the start of the pandemic, and I’m glad she did. Her and her partner’s mission is luxury self-care for a reasonable price, and her candles are the epitome of that. I love the Champagne Showers candle that’s (sadly) currently out of stock. The Late Checkout scent is a worthy alternative, though, with its luxurious notes vanilla, cream, florals and warm woods. The candles, all vegan, use a cotton wick and have up to 65 hours of burn time. Plus, you can wear these delicious scents, too, thanks to the brand’s perfumes.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“These laundry products are not only innovative—they smell amazing.” —Nicole-Natassha Goulding, founder and wedding planner of Chic by Nicole, says of Le Luxe’s perfume-infused laundry care products

“These wallpapers by Chicago-based Mitchell Black take your space from drab to fab. From the premium craftsmanship to the modern art vibe, they’re innovative and beautiful.” —Nicole-Natassha Goulding, founder and wedding planner of Chic by Nicole

“There are so many puzzle brands out there, and a lot of them are great. Apostrophe is a Black-owned, women-led brand that goes beyond making calming puzzles by highlighting contemporary artwork by women of color. They also partner with nonprofits in communities of color and donate a portion of proceeds toward art accessibility and the empowerment of emerging artists. Better yet, the museum-quality puzzles are printed on 100% recycled chipboard and with eco-friendly, nontoxic ink.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“One of Forbes Vetted’s picks for the best dog food delivery services, PetPlate ships fresh, human-grade food for your pup to your doorstep. You can choose from a variety of flavors and plans, and I appreciate how easy it is to store and seal the lidded containers if I don’t use everything in them at once. It’s also simple to swap in a new recipe and add treats or supplements with each order if you’d like to try something different.” —Emmy Favilla, managing editor

“Husband-and-wife duo Giuseppe Morisani and Skyler Mapes decided in 2016 to combine a great love for the fertile lands of Calabria and an even greater obsession with time-honored tradition and craftsmanship. EXAU was born from a desire to create fully transparent, premium-quality extra-virgin olive oil in the rich landscape of Southern Italy and bring it abroad for all to enjoy. With two distinct varietals (grassy Turi and bitter-bold Lina) suitable for both cooking and finishing, there’s something for everyone here; each of them is complex enough to stand out on its own but doesn’t overpower the dish it’s featured in.” —Brinda Ayer, editorial director

“Portrait Coffee is based in Atlanta, where I live, and it’s one of my favorite roasters in town. I love sipping its roasts at a local coffee shop, like Finca to Filter, or picking up a bag of beans at my corner grocery so I know I’ll have great coffee all week long. I’m partial to the Founders blend. Portrait Coffee also has a mission to boost Black and Brown representation and entrepreneurship in specialty coffee, and in Atlanta’s historic West End neighborhood as the area becomes revitalized.” —Anna Perling, senior reviews editor

“With flavors like Cran-Apple and Noms Berry Delight, this delicious loose leaf tea stored in luxurious tins is my go-to for chilly winter mornings. You can choose from three trios: black tea, herbal tea or an immune system-boosting bundle with citrus-flavored green teas. Founded in 2018 by former gymnast Taylor Lindsay-Noel, Cup Of Té also donates $1 from each tea starter kit to mental health awareness.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Made in small batches in the heart of Baltimore, the ice cream from Taharka Brothers is a cult favorite around the city for good reason: The brand’s bold, inventive, totally delicious flavors—like Matcha Mochi, Key Lime Pie, Power Of The People (coffee ice cream with a doughnut-glaze swirl) and Keep Ya Head Up (blackberry crumble with oat streusel)—are just part of the story. The organization’s majority-Black, worker-owned business model and its social impact–focused mission are the other huge selling points. Who can say no to a truly great product with a truly great connection to community? Now, thanks to nationwide shipping, folks outside of Baltimore can partake in the good stuff too.” —Brinda Ayer, editorial director

“Founded by Trinity Mouzon Wofford, superfoods brand Golde helps brighten your day (and your skin!) with its food-based skincare products and tasty turmeric and matcha latte blends. For anyone new to making matcha or turmeric lattes at home, I recommend picking up one of the brand’s accessories, which include matcha whisks to rechargeable frothers.” —Cory Baldwin, executive director of content and strategy

“My husband loves these Mason Dixie waffles, which are delicious and super easy to prepare. We also appreciate that the ingredients are relatively simple, which is a huge consideration in our household. Plus, the waffles are so tasty you don’t even need syrup on them.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor

“These baked desserts are an oldie but a goodie for me as a long-time fan and former vegan (now vegetarian). When I see Partake’s cookies in the grocery store (even if cookies aren’t on my list), I always grab a box. My current favorite flavor is the soft-baked Snickerdoodle, but I love the Chocolate Chip, too (which also comes soft-baked). They’re also a foolproof gift: certified gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan and free from the top nine allergens, most folks can enjoy them.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“The Pattern Hair Steamer has become an invaluable tool in my haircare routine. It’s easy to use and leaves my curls bouncy, with a noticeable lift that’s hard for me to achieve otherwise. My parched, high-porosity strands can’t get enough of its hydration, and while some of its attachments are more useful than others, I still get plenty of value out of the device overall.” —Whitney Bruno, editorial assistant

“If you’re looking for makeup that is disrupting the industry in the best way possible, look no further than Danessa Myricks. Every product I’ve tried so far has a unique formula that is effective, bold and long-lasting—you simply can’t go wrong with any of them. A few items from the brand have become staples in my makeup routine, but the one that constantly impresses me is the Yummy Skin Blurring line. These balms initially have a solid consistency, which turns into a powder finish that feels lightweight on the skin and gives you a smooth, oil-controlled look. Universal balms can be used as a primer (I apply it to my T-zones), and the flushed blushes are beautifully pigmented and can be built up for day and night looks.” —Bianca Alvarez, deals writer

“Dedicated fans of Rihanna’s beauty brand Fenty swear by the Luminous Longwear Foundation, which comes in 50 shades with a range of undertones to allow truly anyone to find their perfect skin tone match. Fenty makes several award-winning, inclusive products, but I especially like the Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick, a highlighter/blush stick that comes in nine shimmery, buildable colors (my favorite is Starstruck).” —Cory Baldwin, executive director of content and strategy

“I stumbled upon Undefined at a time when I was looking for truly clean skincare—vegan, sustainable, cruelty-free—but also sensitive skin–friendly and accessibly priced. I got lucky at an event when someone handed me a couple of their hero products, including the R&R Gel-Crème. It felt so good and soothing on my face, which gets easily irritated and inflamed in the winter. Better yet, it was moisturizing but not heavy. It also has some of my favorite plant ingredients in a face cream or mask: prickly pear and tremella mushroom.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“I’ve tried over 20 lip balms, and as a self-proclaimed lip balm connoisseur, I’m always reaching for and recommending Eadem’s Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm. It makes applying a lip balm feel luxe with its metal applicator and thick, glossy formula. Whenever I apply it, it gives my lips a protective layer of moisture (almost like a lip mask) and helps keep them soft by gently exfoliating. Plus, each of these tinted options looks complementary on all skin tones (zero exaggeration here), which is something I value and take into account when recommending them to my friends and family.” —Bianca Alvaez, deals writer

“Founded by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath, Pat McGrath Labs is my go-to brand for glam makeup must-haves that are long-lasting and beautifully packaged. I regularly use its pretty eye shadow palettes for evening looks, but I especially love the brand’s wide range of lip products. The SatinAllure lipstick comes in 18 moisturizing shades and is the perfect gift under $30 for your mom, sister or beauty-loving friend.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Thirteen Lune is a wonderful beauty destination (similar to Sephora and Ulta) and I highly recommend buying beauty and skincare gifts here if you want to support Black- and Brown-owned brands and find out more about the creators’ back stories. It helps that the platform’s co-founder is Nyakio Grieco, the Black founder of clean beauty brand Relevant, who has 20 years of industry experience under her belt.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“I currently use Mielle’s hair oil and conditioner. The Rosemary Mint collection is amazing! The mint in both formulas leaves my scalp feeling clean and refreshed. I love using the oil throughout the week when my hair needs a bit of a hydration pick-me-up, and using the products in conjunction always makes my curls extra defined and more manageable.” —Whitney Bruno, editorial assistant 

[Editor’s note: Mielle is owned by Procter & Gamble Beauty, but founder Monique Rodriguez is still the CEO.]

“Packed with nourishing ingredients like carrot and sunflower seed oils, this lightweight sunscreen is great for moisturizing and leaving skin glowy, which is why we named it the best value pick of all the top sunscreens we tested. Plus, it doesn’t leave any streaks of white cast, making it ideal for a wide range of skin tones.” —Jane Sung, deputy editor

“Of all the protective style-oriented haircare lines I’ve tried in the past, Cécred’s Protection Collection is the most dedicated to all aspects of protective styles. The nourishing ingredients in each formula deliver a level of moisture and care I can’t get enough of. Rotating each product regularly leaves my scalp feeling refreshed and my braids soft and moisturized.” —Whitney Bruno, editorial assistant

“Lemlem’s easy, breezy dresses are the one constant in my vacation wardrobe. Supermodel Liya Kebede started the resort brand in 2007 after noticing that many of the traditional weavers in her native country of Ethiopia were losing their livelihoods due to a lack of local demand. Since then, Lemlem has partnered with artisans across Africa to preserve the local art of weaving, inspire economic growth and produce beautiful, eco-friendly clothing and accessories that spans swimwear, loungewear and home decor. Even better? Five percent of all sales go toward the Lemlem Foundation, which provides access to healthcare and job opportunities for women artisans in Africa.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Oma The Label features 18k gold-plated baubles that make a statement and look high-end, but at a value price. After receiving two of the brand’s bracelets, I recommend Oma’s offerings if you’re trying trendier styles or gift-giving; you can’t go wrong with its chunky gold chains or outfit-elevating earrings.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor

“I love a good pair of sunglasses—they’re truly an underrated accessory. You can go bold or understated and, like a good shoe or bag, they can completely change the energy of an outfit. I’ve been eyeing this Kimeze pair as a daily driver. They’re chic, simple and have a timeless shape. (At least that’s what I keep telling myself, because I simply cannot pull off the trendy rectangular shades I see everyone in.) Now I just have to figure out what color I want.” —Jordan Thomas, assistant deals editor

“Founded by Aurora James in 2013, luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies is known for pairing traditional African design practices with modern, of-the-moment styling. It has cool-girl flats, western-inspired boots and feather-adorned handbags, but perhaps my favorite thing that it makes are these cotton Cloud Socks. Launched in April 2020 at the start of the pandemic, the cozy, slightly slouchy style made them the perfect stay-at-home socks, but they also look great with sneakers and loafers. Pick up a single pair in a loved one’s favorite color, or grab this bundle of soothing blue shades for a thoughtful yet practical gift that will get a ton of use.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Brooklyn-based leather goods company Ashya is run by two extremely chic women, Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece, who have their fingers on the pulse of what’s next. Founded in 2017, Ashya basically reinvented the luxury belt bag, creating interesting, unisex, travel-friendly shapes in gorgeous colors and textures that can be worn multiple ways (and look absolutely nothing like a fanny pack). The brand’s signature Bolo bags, which include card slots and hidden zippers and can fit your passport, are at one of the most accessible price points for owning an Ashya piece. But my favorite style is the structured Slingback Mini, which can be worn as a cross-body or detached from the included belt and carried by the O-ring top handle.” —Cory Baldwin, executive director of content and strategy

“Telfar, well known for its cool bags, collaborated with Eastpak to create this large shopper, which I absolutely had to buy in khaki. It’s perfect for anyone starting or going back to school. The exterior is durable and can withstand any weather, and I especially love the double straps, so you can use it as a backpack rather than a typical shoulder bag. The inside is extremely spacious with a zip pocket, netting pockets and, of course, a laptop slip to keep things organized. I highly recommend this bag, and I even ended up buying two more for friends in school. It’s too perfect not to.” —Dawlat Chebly, SEO content strategist

“Since 2021, cool vegan sneaker brand LØCI has become a fast favorite of celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck—and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the retailer use recycled plastic bottles to hand-make its canvas shoes, but it donates 10% of all online profits to protect wildlife and support biodiversity efforts. If you’re on the hunt for a pair of new white sneakers, look no further than the LØCI Origin, a classic and comfy vegan leather tennis shoe that comes in more than 15 colors.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Originally from Montego Bay, Jamaica, the New York City–based designer Matthew Harris created fine jewelry brand Mateo New York in 2009. Drawing inspiration from modern art, Harris marries simplicity and minimalism in every single piece, offering sleek, high-end designs with precious metals, diamonds and gemstones at an approachable price point for fine jewelry. I love Mateo’s delicate 14k gold and diamond initial necklaces for everyday wear and its stunning selection of pearl earrings for special occasions.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor

“Silver & Riley was founded by Lola Banjo, a world traveler who wanted to create travel staples that are equally beautiful and functional. The brand has a line of designer-worthy handbags, as well as duffels, carry-ons and belt bags, all made in Italy from premium full-grain leather. I was fortunate to get my hands on the Convertible Executive Leather Bag, which is roomy enough to stash air travel essentials but portable enough to use as a work or everyday tote. The bag also comes with a long strap that can be detached or reattached, transforming it from a doctor’s bag to a cross-body to a backpack. While the bag is an investment, its versatility gives you plenty for the price.” —Karen Tietjen, senior updates editor

“Finding quiet moments to rest and decompress has been at the top of Venus Williams’ to-do list ever since she was diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue and joint pain, in 2011. In between, she’s taken on business ventures as part owner and chief brand officer of the women-owned and -operated wellness company, Asutra. Tools like the weighted Silk Eye Pillow, Melt Pain Away Butter and Dream The Night Away Lotion have helped Williams solidify her nighttime ritual and maintain a higher quality of sleep.” —Jennifer Ferrise, special projects editor, for our Sleep Like column

“Sprinkling one of Homebody’s CBD-infused bath soaks into the tub is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day. In addition to CBD, the brand’s formulas also include soothing ingredients like magnesium and chamomile for an extra-relaxing effect. My favorite pick—the Full Spectrum of Possibilities soak—turns your bathwater into a pretty kaleidoscope of colors.” —Kara Cuzzone, senior deals editor

“Founded by a successful marketing executive turned Reiki Master and energy healer Donnie Soddu, High Light Rituals’ struck me with its focus on creating ‘energy work you can wear.’ As someone who values the benefits of both therapy and energy work in my own mental wellness, I admired that Soddu’s creations bridge the gap between fine jewelry and spiritual practice. Pieces like the Mini Blessings & Protection Amulet stand out for their intentional construction; they also all undergo Soddu’s shamanic ‘light charging’ ceremony. This particular amulet, for example, is made with a lab-grown diamond and an ancient protective rosette cast in recycled 14K gold. Her jewelry is a sophisticated choice for people like me who value conscious shopping and prefer pieces that offer both high-end craftsmanship and a sense of spiritual grounding. (I also highly recommend experiencing her energy in person and booking a reading, if you can.” —Fran Sales, updates writer

“Written by Black author and mother Angela Joy and illustrated by award-winning Black artist Ekua Holmes, Black Is a Rainbow Color is a beautiful children’s book that follows a young girl as she describes what the word ‘Black’ means to her. It’s a powerful and colorful celebration of Black culture and history.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor

“Yelitsa Jean-Charles’ Healthy Roots Dolls come in a range of diverse skin tones and hair textures that let kids actually wash and style the dolls’ hair. The dolls represent a celebration of Black hair with the aim of empowering young girls of color. The company also sells companion haircare books. Jean-Charles founded her toy company while still a college student, and now you can find her dolls at Target and Macy’s.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor

“I’ve tested Alaffia’s kids shampoo, conditioner and bubble bath and love them. They smell so good, and I love the way the conditioner—which is formulated with shea leaf extract and fair-trade unrefined raw shea butter—makes my daughter’s hair feel.” —Alicia Betz, kids and parenting writer

“Founded by a Black mom, Kemi Tignor, in Washington, D.C., this toy company makes really smart puzzles, flash cards and games aimed at children 6 and under. All of its items, including this Splash Park puzzle, feature Black families and multicultural scenes with the aim of fostering a sense of belonging and representation for young kids. The company celebrates cultural and ethnic differences with the families and lively activities depicted on the toys. We have the puzzle at home, and my daughter absolutely loves it.” —Rose Gordon Sala, deputy editor