Sharonda Sammons, founder of Sammons Safety Services LLC, has dedicated nearly two decades to building her safety management company. Her business, which now encompasses dump truck services, holds contracts in Cleveland and Akron. Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, Sammons has observed a significant disparity affecting Black-owned businesses and contractors, particularly the limited access to opportunities for crucial services like restaurant and building safety compliance checks. She articulates this challenge by stating, "We always get the scraps, bits and bottom of the barrel." Sammons is hopeful that an upcoming economic impact report, a collaborative effort between the Black Chamber of Commerce – Summit County and the University of Akron, will effectively quantify the substantial contributions of Black businesses to the regional economy.
The foundational step in compiling this vital economic impact report is a comprehensive survey designed to capture data directly from Black business owners. Robert DeJournett, President and CEO of the Black Chamber of Commerce – Summit County, believes this survey is unprecedented in the Akron area, aiming to encompass Black businesses irrespective of their size, industry sector, or revenue generation. DeJournett emphasized the objective: "We know that they contribute a lot to the economy and we’re really trying to capture that data." This initiative seeks to provide a clear, data-driven understanding of the economic footprint of Black entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights for community development and economic planning.
Summit County Black Business Economic Impact Survey
The survey, designed to be completed in approximately seven minutes, prioritizes the confidentiality of all participating business owners. Responses are due by June 30th. DeJournett reports that as of the current progress, around 150 business owners have already submitted their responses. The ambitious goal is to gather input from 500 Black business owners, a cohort that includes a wide spectrum of enterprises, from solopreneurs such as plumbers, electricians, and beauticians to faith-based organizations and non-profit entities. The data collected will illuminate critical statistics, detailing metrics like the number of Summit County residents employed by Black-owned businesses and their overall percentage contribution to the local economy.
Objective and Scope of the Survey
The primary objective of this survey is to systematically collect and analyze data that accurately reflects the economic influence of Black-owned businesses within Summit County. By gathering information on employment figures, revenue generation, and investment within the community, the Black Chamber of Commerce aims to build a robust case for the economic vitality and importance of these enterprises. This detailed data will serve not only the Chamber and its constituents but also a broader audience, including policymakers, economic development agencies, and community stakeholders, enabling more informed decision-making and resource allocation.
DeJournett further elaborated on the broad applicability of the collected data, stating, "It’s not just for us to use — it’s for all of those who will find this data useful." The intention is to create a public resource that fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the economic landscape shaped by Black entrepreneurs. The findings are expected to highlight the interconnectedness of these businesses within the wider economic ecosystem of Summit County, underscoring their role in job creation, wealth generation, and community support. The data promises to be a valuable asset for future economic strategies and initiatives.
The Importance of Participation
The success of this economic impact report hinges on the active participation of Black business owners across Summit County. Completing the survey is a crucial step that allows these businesses to be recognized and accounted for in a quantifiable manner. By sharing their data, owners contribute to a collective narrative that can influence public policy, attract investment, and foster new opportunities. The anonymity and confidentiality assurances are designed to encourage candid responses, ensuring the data's integrity and reliability.
The Black Chamber of Commerce – Summit County, in partnership with the University of Akron, is making a concerted effort to reach a diverse range of businesses. This initiative transcends traditional business metrics by also including faith-based organizations and non-profits, acknowledging their significant role in community development and economic stability. Sammons' initial observation about limited opportunities underscores the systemic need for such data to advocate for equitable access and fair competition within the business landscape of the region. The survey serves as a direct mechanism to address these disparities through evidence-based advocacy.
Impact Analysis
The forthcoming economic impact report, fueled by the data gathered from this survey, is poised to have significant implications for Summit County. By providing concrete evidence of the financial contributions of Black-owned businesses, the report can serve as a powerful tool for advocacy. This data can inform policy decisions, attract targeted investment, and support initiatives aimed at fostering economic inclusion and equity. Furthermore, it can help dismantle stereotypes and misconceptions about the economic capacity and influence of minority-owned enterprises, paving the way for greater opportunities and partnerships within the broader business community.
The utilization of this data by various stakeholders, including economic development organizations, financial institutions, and local government, could lead to the implementation of more effective support programs and policies. It allows for a data-driven approach to addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs, potentially leading to increased access to capital, enhanced mentorship opportunities, and expanded market reach. Ultimately, the report and the underlying survey data have the potential to catalyze tangible economic growth and create a more equitable business environment in Summit County.
