Frequently Asked Questions
Listing your business or organization with the VA Black Business Directory (VABBD) is simple. Click the “Get Listed” link from our home page and follow the steps outlined on the page. The membership fee is $50 per year, payable upon registration.
The VA Black Business Directory (VABBD) is committed to increasing the visibility and economic support of black-owned businesses throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV). We are a member based non-profit organization that provides networking, marketing, and educational opportunities for its members. The long-term goal is to have all black-owned businesses throughout the DMV listed in the directory.
We cover the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV). Your business does not have to be geographically located within the DMV to get listed. Businesses located out of the area benefit just like any other member by developing professional contacts within the directory. In additional to, their products and services are promoted to fellow members and residents of the DMV.
As of July 2021, the VABBD has over 1200 members with 1400 business/organizations listed.
Businesses ranging from small to large corporations, LLC’s, religious organizations and non-profit organizations list with the VABBD.
As a non-profit organization raising funds for our events and programs, we do not solicit our members on behalf of other organizations. All members benefit from being listed and can promote their fundraising events through a multitude of VABBD communication platforms including our social media pages, events calendar, and e-newsletter.
Yes, we encourage you to post your deals, promotions, and events in our exclusive Facebook Networking Group and on our website. All you need to do is log into your account to submit your information.
The VABBD works together to promote the economic development of all listed members. It is a non-profit organization financed entirely by membership dues, sponsorships, advertising, and grants. Funds are allocated to our events and programs that support our members. As a non-profit organization we raise funds for our events, programs and advertising which prevents us from contributing monetarily to other organizations.
The VABBD is an advocate for black-owned businesses. We proudly serve as the catalyst of business growth within the DMV and continue to seek new ways to market and advertise supporting black businesses. Please note: We are not a marketing company; however, we act as a voice for businesses with the belief that together we are stronger.
Memberships vary in price based on membership tier. To learn more about our membership prices and benefits click here.
You can connect with other members through our Members Only Facebook Networking Group, our online directory and our members virtual and in-person networking events.
The VABBD has a variety of networking events you can attend in person and virtually. Information regarding events are sent via e-Blast, added to the event calendar on the website, and shared in the exclusive Facebook Networking Group. The VABBD schedules four quarterly networking events and an annual formal cocktail party (The Great Blacksby).
The VABBD sells advertising in multiple of ways. We offer free promotional opportunities in our members only Facebook networking group and on our social media stories time line. There are opportunities to enhance your business exposure with paid advertising in the annual printed directory. Specific marketing opportunities are:
- Social Media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
- E-Newsletter (published monthly on the first Monday of the month).
- Sponsorships at VABBD events
- Print advertisement in the annual printed directory
Marketing benefits include business referrals and paid advertisements in publications that are distributed to businesses and residents of the DMV.
The VABBD is made up of small businesses and is financed in large part by membership dues, sponsorships, advertising, networking events, and grants.
We offer quarterly virtual membership meetings via Zoom. An email reminder is sent to all listed members.
There are many opportunities to have your suggestions heard. Contact our Membership Committee via email at info@vabbd.com to discuss opportunities.
Absolutely! The VABBD website houses a public calendar with the ability to list events exclusive to our members. All VABBD members are encouraged to promote their events, community involvements, participation in events, business celebrations, conferences, expos and pop-up shops. Please note: All posted events are subject to approval.
A VABBD membership opens the doors to endless advertising opportunities that will make your business more visible and successful. The VABBD also offers many networking opportunities, business referrals, connections to educational and mentorship opportunities, leadership development, and much more!