The app pinpoints the closest black-owned businesses in a five-mile radius of the user. The application shows the location on a map, allowing users to get step-by-step directions, call the business directly or visit the company’s website from the business profile. Users also have the option to share a business’ information on Facebook, Twitter or via email. A customizable favorites list can be created so users don’t have to search again for their preferred shops.
Around the Way is constantly building its database and collaborating with local agencies such as the New York African American Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce and National Black Chamber of Commerce. Users have the option to “view all” of the 17,000 black-owned businesses in all 50 states, or search per one of the nine-different categories. They include: Auto, ATM/Bank, Bakery/Cafe, Beauty/Barber, Club/Lounge, Laundry/Cleaners, Lodging, Restaurant and Shopping.
Businesses looking to be included within the database should add themselves via the app or website.
According to Pew Research findings, 51% of African-American mobile users do most of their online browsing on their phone, double the amount for their white counterparts (24%). Not to mention, there was a 60% increase in black-owned firms from 2002 to 2007, bringing the total to 1.9 million establishments in ’07, according to the US Census Bureau Survey of Black-Owned Business: 2007. That report was released in February of last year.
