WeLoveUs Shop: Empowering Black Brands

In a world that’s constantly changing, the power of community has always been a guiding force for Black people. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to harness that collective strength, especially for Black women navigating the entrepreneurial and creative landscapes. Given the tough economic climate, particularly the concerning statistic of over 300,000 Black women leaving the workforce recently, a new initiative is stepping up to make a real difference.

Introducing WeLoveUs: A Movement, Not Just a Marketplace

Sundial Media & Technology Group, in partnership with ESSENCE, is launching WeLoveUs Powered by ESSENCE. This isn’t just another online store; it’s a vibrant destination designed to uplift, invest in, and celebrate Black creators and business owners. It’s a bold response to a challenging year, built on the core belief that when we support each other, we build a more sustainable future for Black women, Black businesses, and Black culture.

With Black Americans’ buying power growing significantly over the past two decades, reaching $2.1 trillion, the potential for economic influence is undeniable. WeLoveUs aims to channel this power intentionally, offering a fresh way to discover and support the Black brands and makers who are shaping culture today.

Addressing Real Challenges for Black Founders

This year has been particularly heavy for Black women, facing workforce losses, industry layoffs, and DEI rollbacks that impact visibility. Many founders and freelancers are grappling with delayed payments, unsold inventory, and a lack of institutional support. WeLoveUs was created to tackle these exact problems head-on.

The platform is launching on Cyber Monday, December 1st, 2025, with a focus on ESSENCE’s core values: intentionality, community, and a deep commitment to the women who are the backbone of our creative and economic ecosystems. It’s more than just a shopping experience; it’s a commitment to Black brilliance.

Key Benefits for Creators and Consumers

• **Faster Cash Flow:** Receive bi-weekly payments with a transparent 30-35% commission structure, eliminating hidden fees.
• **Operational Support:** Benefit from Shopify Collective integration, centralized customer service, and unified policies, freeing up founders to focus on creation.
• **Visibility Without the Paywall:** Guaranteed amplification across the entire ESSENCE and Sundial ecosystem, including websites, newsletters, and social platforms, with no ad spend required.
• **Community and Capacity Building:** Access coaching, webinars, AMAs, cohort support, and networking through the New Voices Foundation, fostering growth and resilience.

WeLoveUs will also feature limited-edition curated drops tied to important cultural moments like Black History Month, Mother’s Day, and ESSENCE Festival of Culture. This initiative joins a robust ecosystem aimed at building a holistic economic infrastructure for Black women, offering a supportive environment for both intentional shoppers and vendors seeking visibility.

By championing entrepreneurship as a catalyst for resilience and prosperity, WeLoveUs Powered by ESSENCE reminds us that Black commerce has always been powerful. When we channel that power intentionally, everyone benefits. It’s a powerful reminder: WeLoveUs. We shop us.