Black Brands and Businesses
Innovators and Trailblazers
Government and Economic Policy
Culture
Misc.
100


This Black-owned haircare brand, founded by Richelieu Dennis, was inspired by his grandmother's homemade beauty recipes from Sierra Leone.



What is SheaMoisture?

100

The first self-made Black woman millionaire. She built a haircare empire tailored to Black women. As one of the most successful Black entrepreneurs in U.S. history, she developed a range of products, including hair care, cosmetics, and beauty tools.

Who is Madam C.J. Walker? (a.k.a. Sarah Breedlove)

100

This U.S. law, passed in 1964, outlawed discrimination in employment and public accommodations, helping to expand economic opportunities for Black Americans.

What is the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

100

This popular rap artist's real name is Nayvadius Wilburn.

Who is Future?

100

This was the first Black woman to win an EGOT?

Who is Whoopi Goldberg?

200


This billionaire and former music producer co-founded the headphone company that changed the audio industry, later selling it to Apple for $3 billion.



Who is Dr. Dre (Beats by Dre)?

200

Founded in 1900 by Maggie Lena Walker, this is the first national organization aimed at supporting Black-owned businesses in the United States, advocating for economic opportunities and minority business advocacy.

What is the National Business League (NBL)?

200

This government agency, created in 1953, provides loans and resources to support small businesses, including many Black-owned businesses.

What is the Small Business Administration (SBA)?

200

This was the first historically black college (HBCU) in America



What is Cheyney University?

200

This was the first black millionaire?

Who is Madame CJ Walker?

300


This luxury fashion brand, founded by designer Kerby Jean-Raymond, is known for blending high fashion with activism and Black culture



What is Pyer Moss?

300

This groundbreaking TV producer became the first African American woman to sign a major deal with Netflix, securing a $150 million partnership to create exclusive content under her media company, Shondaland. Her storytelling empire includes hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and Bridgerton.

Who is Shonda Rhimes?

300

In 1865, this government-backed institution was established to help newly freed African Americans build wealth, though it collapsed due to mismanagement and fraud.

What is the Freedman’s Bank?

300

The evolution of Jazz music started here.



What is Harlem, NY?

300

This professional association, established in 1969, was the first to support the career advancement of African Americans in accounting and finance, offering resources for growth, networking, and scholarships.

What is the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA)

400


This Black-owned ice cream brand, co-founded by sisters, made history as the first African American-owned ice cream brand to be sold at Walmart.



What is Creamalicious?

400

This business mogul made history as the first Black female billionaire.After co-founding BET, she built a luxury hospitality empire and became a leader in sports ownership, holding stakes in multiple WNBA teams. She continues to uplift minority entrepreneurs through business, media, and the arts.

Who is Sheila Johnson?

400

Signed into law in 1987, this policy created a framework for increasing the number of federal contracts awarded to minority-owned businesses.

What is the Minority Business Development Act?

400

She is the first African American model to be featured on the cover of GQ magazine?



Who is Tyra Banks?

400

This trailblazer made history as the first woman to own a bank in the United States.

Who is Maggie Lena Walker?

500


Launched in 1945, this company became the first Black-owned business to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.



What is Johnson

Products Company?

500

Known for his groundbreaking success in business as the first Black American to build a billion-dollar company. He made his fortune through leveraged buyouts, most notably acquiring TLC Beatrice International, a global food company. Beyond business, he was a dedicated philanthropist, supporting educational initiatives and providing opportunities for underserved communities.

Who is Reginald F. Lewis?

500

This federal program, launched in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, provided funding for minority entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses

What is the Office of Minority Business Enterprise (now the Minority Business Development Agency, MBDA)?

500

Soul Train was created and hosted by this TV presenter.

Who is Don Cornelius?

500

This is the biggest Black-owned brand

What is World Wide Technology?