National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise, the Washington Wizards, will promote the Black-Owned DMV initiative presented by financial institution, Capital One.
The campaign, which is in its third year, will advertise several black-owned businesses across industries, including arts, fitness, hospitality and education.
Each month until the end of the season, one business will be showcased on social media, marketing programs and in-game advertising.
For October, the spotlight will be on Harambee Books and Artwork, while specialty foods manufacturer Capital City Mambo Sauce will be November’s business.
Showing their full support of the partnership, Monumental Sports – owners of the wizards – chief commercial officer, Jim Van Stone, said: “These black-owned small businesses were hand-picked by our Wizards players and staff not only because of their excellence in their trade, but more importantly, they build the same sense of community that our team strives to build across this region.”
“We are so proud to support and highlight the dreams of these pillars across our neighbourhoods who showcase what it means to put DC Above All,” he said.
Alongside the rest of the NBA, the Wizards also contribute US$1 million (AU$1.56 million) per year to support greater economic empowerment in black communities.