HEADLINE: BLACK BUSINES MONTH: ACTIVELY BLACK CO-FOUNDER LANNY SMITH

Company Overview - Actively Black is an athleisure and athletic apparel brand that celebrates black culture and history, and gives back to the black community [4] - The brand aims to be the "black Nike," offering premium quality products comparable to brands like Nike, Lululemon, and Puma [6][7] - Actively Black launched on Black Friday 2020 and has experienced rapid growth since [5] Product & Supply Chain - Actively Black launched a 100% cotton line sourced from black farmers, paying above-market prices for the cotton and labor [14][17] - The company emphasizes a 100% black-owned supply chain for its cotton line, from "seed to stitch" [19] - Tariffs on goods from Asia, particularly China, have significantly impacted Actively Black's business, leading to the exploration of American-made options [20][21] Business Strategy & Challenges - The founder advises against entering the retail clothing business due to its saturation and the challenges of creating a lasting impact [23][24][25] - Actively Black achieved its first three-month period of profitability after four years in business [27] - The company has a 70% return customer rate, which is high for e-commerce apparel brands, because customers see the brand as a representation of themselves [31] Community & Purpose - The brand is purpose-driven, aiming to give back to the black community in a meaningful way, beyond just profiting from black talent and consumerism [9] - Actively Black aims to reclaim ownership of cotton production, creating wealth for the black community and healing from the trauma associated with slavery [18] - The company outfitted Team Nigeria in the summer Olympics [11] Market & Financial Insights - Black Americans spend $30 billion annually on apparel and shoes [17] - High tariffs, such as 145% or 150%, could potentially put small, black-owned businesses like Actively Black out of business [21]