Why 70% of Black-Owned Businesses in Houston Could Disappear Without a Plan

Houston’s Black-owned businesses are a driving force in the city’s economy, accounting for up to 4.7% of all local businesses—well above the national average and one of the highest rates in Texas. Yet, behind this growth lies a silent crisis: over 70% of Black-owned businesses in Houston have no formal succession or legacy plan. This means that when an owner passes away or becomes incapacitated, their business is at immediate risk of closure, costly legal battles, or being lost altogether—erasing years of hard work and generational progress.

This vulnerability is compounded by other alarming trends. Only 1 in 5 Black families in Houston pre-plan for funerals or final expenses, leaving loved ones to face both emotional and financial burdens. Nationally, Black-owned businesses make up just 3% of all U.S. firms, despite Black Americans representing 14% of the population. In Houston, Black entrepreneurs are making significant strides, but systemic barriers—like limited access to capital, social networks, and generational wealth—continue to threaten the sustainability of these businesses.

A recent city disparity study found that Black-owned businesses in Houston still face significant disadvantages in every major contracting category, especially professional services. While programs exist to support minority businesses, changes and legal challenges threaten their future, making it even more critical for Black entrepreneurs to take control of their own legacy planning now.

That’s why Doing Far More LLC, led by Mrs. Donna Marshall-Payne, is hosting the Spring Formal—a pivotal event designed to empower Houston’s Black entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to secure their business legacy. The event, part of the Black Entrepreneur Tour, will be held at 23161 Morton Ranch Rd, Katy, TX 77449 and features powerhouse speakers including Marcus Bowers (CEO of She’s Happy Hair and Cinema Anywhere Houston), Brittany Hall (owner of La Lutte Empire and La Lutte Bartending), Martel Matthews (co-owner of Black Wall Street) and event sponsor YetundeO (founder and creative director of The UpperRoomEvents).

Attendees will also enjoy special experiences, with Flume TV and Eyeconic Television covering the evening, Bolanle Media capturing the energy, Chef Shay presenting an elegant charcuterie table, and La Lutte Bartending offering a signature mimosa bar drink crafted especially for Doing Far More.

If you’re an entrepreneur in Houston, this is the conversation you can’t afford to miss. Don’t let your hard work become a statistic. Secure your spot at the Spring Formal and join a community committed to building generational wealth and lasting legacies. For more information or to RSVP, contact Mrs. Donna Marshall-Payne at 832.745.1114 or email info@doingfarmore.com.

Let’s ensure our stories—and our businesses—live on. Join us for the Spring Formal and let’s do far more, together.