There's a surge in minority-owned businesses across the U.S. According to the Annual Business Survey (ABS), approximately 1.1 million businesspeople in the U.S. operated minority-owned firms in 2019. After many years facing major roadblocks in acquiring funds, minority-owned businesses are now receiving support from corporations and governments to help them grow.

If you want to position yourself for more opportunities, you need proper  . You must promote your business and establish strong connections in your community. Here's how you can market your minority-owned business. 

1.   Connect with Your Customers Directly on Social Media

Social media has become the top marketing medium for businesses. Platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram have different features minority business owners can leverage to reach their potential clients.

While some businesses have a strong presence on all social media platforms, experts say it's better to focus on one or two relevant platforms where your business will enjoy the most visibility. For instance, fashion and beauty businesses that are all about visual appeal should utilize platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Rihanna promotes her Fenty Beauty brand using catchy captions on Instagram that cut across all backgrounds.

2.   Use Targeted Ads

One great benefit of using ads for marketing is you have the freedom to choose your target audience. A customized Facebook ad that shows up on your potential customer's feeds can elicit a quick response and make prospects respond to your call to action.

Facebook and Instagram give you the option to market to a community that follows your brand. You can customize ads based on location, gender, age, and search patterns. You have more control over who sees your adverts and can focus on those who are likely to buy your products or services. 

3.   Share Your Experiences as a Minority Business Owner

Minority business owners face a lot of challenges before they make it in the business world. More than 70% say lending firms charge them high loan interest rates. I Need Cash Now, a popular online lender, reports that minority business owners have to visit many title loan places to find affordable loans, which can be very discouraging.

The company says that these entrepreneurs must create deeper connections by sharing their experiences and struggles with their communities. This will foster inclusivity, helping them push the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) agenda in the corporate world.

4.   Request Customers to Leave Reviews Online

Online reviews can increase your brand's visibility in an instant. They can help establish your brand's credibility and build its reputation. 54.7% percent of consumers read at least four reviews before buying a product, so request your happy customers to leave reviews. When potential customers see many positive reviews about your product or services, they're more likely to buy from you.

Winning in business requires confidence, and lots of it. You must be psychologically prepared for rejection, because you'll encounter it. Believe in yourself and your business and work hard to make it succeed. Marketing a minority-owned business is not easy, but it's doable.