In today’s digital shopping landscape, Amazon dominates as the go-to platform for consumers worldwide. However, as more people seek to support small businesses and minority entrepreneurs, the demand for ethnically owned alternatives has grown. While there isn’t a single giant that rivals Amazon, several online marketplaces highlight and uplift businesses owned by Black, Latino, and other underrepresented entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to spend your dollars in a way that directly supports these communities, here are some standout platforms to explore.
Black-Owned Marketplaces
HellaBlack
HellaBlack is a community-driven marketplace that features a diverse range of products from Black-owned businesses. From fashion to electronics, HellaBlack offers a seamless shopping experience that allows consumers to support Black entrepreneurs while finding unique, high-quality items. (hellablack.com)
WeBuyBlack
Touted as “the Black Amazon,” WeBuyBlack is more than just an e-commerce site—it’s a movement. The platform connects consumers with thousands of Black-owned businesses and advocates for economic empowerment within the Black community. Whether you’re looking for household goods, fashion, or health products, WeBuyBlack provides an excellent alternative. (afrotech.com)
Black Owned Everything
What started as an Instagram movement has grown into a full-fledged e-commerce site, offering a curated collection of Black-owned brands. Black Owned Everything aims to create long-term participation for Black entrepreneurs in the e-commerce space, making it easier for consumers to find and support these businesses.
Latina/Latino-Owned Marketplaces
The Mujerista Marketplace
This vibrant platform is dedicated to supporting Latina entrepreneurs by showcasing products ranging from fashion and home decor to wellness and beauty. The Mujerista Marketplace creates a space where consumers can shop for culturally inspired goods while helping to uplift Latina-owned brands. (themujerista.com)
JZD
Founded in Texas, JZD is a Latina-owned brand known for its empowering and culturally relevant designs, including graphic tees and accessories that celebrate Latinx heritage. Their online store has gained popularity for its vibrant messaging and strong advocacy for community representation. (designbybrianna.com)
Inclusive Beauty Platforms
Thirteen Lune
Thirteen Lune is an inclusive beauty platform that highlights skincare, makeup, hair care, and wellness brands founded by Black and Brown entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional beauty retailers, Thirteen Lune’s mission is to amplify diverse voices in the beauty industry while offering high-quality, innovative products. (en.wikipedia.org)
Why Supporting Ethnically Owned Marketplaces Matters
Shopping from these platforms not only diversifies your purchasing habits but also helps build economic equity in communities that have historically faced barriers to business success. By choosing to buy from Black-owned, Latino-owned, and minority-owned businesses, you contribute to job creation, generational wealth, and cultural preservation.
While Amazon remains a retail juggernaut, these ethnically owned alternatives provide consumers with a way to make their shopping more intentional and impactful. So the next time you shop online, consider where your money is going and how it can support businesses that reflect the rich diversity of our world.