An Interview with Nikki Porcher
Founder of BUY FROM A BLACK WOMAN
𝑵𝑰𝑲𝑲𝑰 𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑪𝑯𝑬𝑹 is a true powerhouse, full of energy and strength to motivate and propel an entire community. She has such an inspiring journey, from teaching in the public school system and serving in the Air Force to founding Buy from a Black Woman (BFABW). She is a passionate and generous champion for black women everywhere.
Nikki Porcher in front of the Buy From A Black Woman billboard.
Buy from a Black Woman is an NGO that educates, empowers, and inspires Black Women Business Owners by offering many different resources, including educational programming and funding.
BFABW created an online directory of black women entrepreneurs to highlight and bring awareness to black female founders and their businesses. Through BFABW, Nikki created the Black Woman Business Grant for black women who have an idea for a business but lack funding. Since 2016 BFABW has awarded 10 Black Woman Business Grants directly to Black Women Business Owners.
When did you first get the idea to start your BFABW?
Buy From a Black Woman started after I went to an event filled with makers and crafters and I was the only Black Woman in the building. I was already on a journey of wondering what it is I was supposed to be doing with my life but being at this event solidified it.
What were your first steps to make it a reality?
I left that event wondering what I could do to help spread the word about Black Women Businesses. I wanted to use my gifts and talents to help other Black Women. I wanted people to Buy From Black Women the way they were buying from the women in this marketplace. I remember leaving the spot and saying "𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯!" and so, Buy From a Black Woman was born.
How would you like to see Buy from a Black Woman evolve?
If you would have told me four years ago that Buy From a Black Woman would be what it is now, I would have asked "how?" and that would have taken the fun away. I trust the Universe to guide me. That reminds me that this isn't about me. My gifts and talents are being used to fulfill this purpose. Buy From a Black Woman was a gift. I get to do this for a living! So, I have to remember that it isn't about what I want, it is about the needs of the community. While I do have some dreams and desires for Buy From A Black Woman, the reason why it has evolved the way it has is because I listen to Black Women. They show me what is needed and I move Buy From a Black Woman in that direction. I evolve with and for the community.
Buy From A Black Woman billboard.
What advice do you have for fellow entrepreneurs?
Your ideas aren't crazy. They came to you because you're the only person who can make them real. The world is waiting for you. We are waiting for your ideas to come alive.
Check out the Buy From A Black Woman Website.