Summit County survey aims to measure Black businesses’ economic power

June 1, 2026 - 05:13

A new partnership between the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County and the University of Akron is working to put a hard number on the economic influence of Black-owned businesses in the region. The two organizations have launched a survey targeting local Black entrepreneurs, with the goal of collecting data on revenue, employment, and spending patterns.

Organizers say the effort is long overdue. While small businesses are often discussed in broad terms, there is little specific data on how Black-owned firms contribute to the local economy. The survey hopes to fill that gap by asking owners about their annual sales, number of employees, and the types of goods and services they purchase from other local vendors.

The information gathered will be used to create a detailed economic impact report. That report is expected to help business owners, policymakers, and lenders understand the true scale of Black entrepreneurship in the county. It could also support arguments for better access to capital and contracts.

The survey is open now and will run for several weeks. Results are expected to be released later this year. Organizers are encouraging all Black business owners in Summit County to participate, regardless of the size or age of their company.