Celebrating Black-Owned Businesses During National Black Business Month
In recognition of August as National Black Business Month, we welcome Dr. Chauné Fitzgerald, founder of the Washington African American Chamber of Commerce, as our guest blogger. Dr. Fitzgerald shares how Black-owned businesses enrich the Tri-Cities’ tourism landscape through cultural events, culinary experiences, and innovative services that bring diversity, authenticity, and vitality to our community.
August is National Black Business Month, a time to honor the achievements of Black entrepreneurs and the vital role they play in our local economy. In the Tri-Cities, Black-owned businesses are not only serving our community but also enhancing the visitor experience in meaningful ways. From one-of-a-kind dining and retail to cultural events and innovative services, these businesses add depth, diversity, and authenticity to the region’s tourism landscape. Supporting them strengthens our economy, tells richer stories about who we are, and invites visitors to connect more deeply with our community.
The Washington African American Chamber of Commerce (WAACOC) is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth within our community. Founded by Dr. Chauné Fitzgerald in 2019 and achieving 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2021, WAACOC’s mission is rooted in three core pursuits: empowering underserved businesses, advocating for economic equity, and building vibrant community connections. We support businesses statewide, providing resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to help them grow and thrive. Our belief is simple: a thriving, inclusive local economy benefits everyone, residents and visitors alike.
Since its inception, WAACOC has grown to include more than 200 businesses in its membership directory. A cornerstone of our work is the annual WAACOC Business EXPO, which unites local entrepreneurs, community members, and leaders. Recognized by leaders such as Governor Bob Ferguson and State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, the event features legislative and local government speakers who share culturally relevant updates on policies affecting small businesses and economic development. At our third annual EXPO, Black-owned businesses had the opportunity to showcase their products and services, connect with the community, hear from industry experts, and build partnerships to help fuel economic growth.
In the Tri-Cities, tourism is powered by a diverse array of local businesses, restaurants, hotels, recreation providers, arts venues, and retail shops, and our WAACOC members are at the heart of that experience. They bring innovation, culture, and authenticity that make the region truly special.
Many members are first-time business owners making a big impact. Ann’s Best Creole Soul Food has become a beloved spot for authentic cuisine. The Mike Way Wellness offers fitness and health services, along with the first Black-owned esthetician school in the area, Northwest Esthetics Academy. This summer, WAACOC hosted a ribbon-cutting for The Wash Laundromat, the first Black veteran-owned laundromat in the region, offering essential services with a community-focused approach. And WOW’s EV Carshare Program is the first Black-owned electric vehicle and EV charging solutions sharing service, promoting sustainable transportation options.
WAACOC also celebrates long-standing community leaders, including the Tri-Cities WA Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, which has served the region for more than 40 years.
Our members add unique value to the visitor experience. Frichette Winery offers exceptional wine tasting experiences in the Heart of Washington Wine Country®. Others host cultural events and support arts and crafts markets through organizations like Tri-Cities Diversity & Inclusion Council (TCD&IC). Celebrating both beauty and talent, our members organize events like the Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, which awards thousands in scholarships annually, and programs like the Annual Senior Awards Night hosted by African American Community, Cultural, and Educational Society (AACCES)—awarding $100,000 in scholarships and launching the Youth Academic Achievement Program. We also proudly support members such as the NAACP and its Annual Freedom Conference. These initiatives enrich the region’s cultural fabric and create authentic tourism experiences for visitors.
Our members aren’t just business owners. They are ambassadors of culture, community, and progress. Their work enhances the visitor experience, attracts new guests, and contributes significantly to the economic growth of the Tri-Cities. Supporting and celebrating these Black-owned businesses is essential to building a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving regional tourism scene.
Why Inclusive Tourism Matters
Inclusive tourism isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart economic strategy. By highlighting and supporting diverse businesses, we create richer, more authentic visitor experiences that encourage longer stays and repeat visits. Inclusive tourism promotes economic equity, helps underserved communities thrive, and ensures the benefits of tourism are shared broadly.
Get Involved
We invite community members, visitors, and fellow business owners to explore and support Black-owned businesses in our region. Together, we can foster a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity and drives economic success for all.