Black History Month
Celebrating the people in the communities that we serve, not just one month, but all year long.
What Does Black History Mean to You?
Learn from M&T employees what makes Black History Month so important to them.
Evelyn Kessler
Sustainability Communications Manager
“Black History Month holds profound significance for me as a second-generation immigrant. It offers a powerful connection to shared struggles and triumphs, fostering unity, and understanding among diverse cultures.”
Renee Lewis-Mance
National Product Manager
“Black History Month holds immense significance as a dedicated time to reflect on the rich contributions, struggles, and triumphs of Black individuals throughout history. It serves as a reminder to honor the resilience, creativity, and cultural impact of the Black community. By acknowledging this heritage, we foster a collective understanding that transcends racial boundaries, promoting unity, equality, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experience.”
Supporting Black Owned Businesses
The M&T Bank Spotlight Shop highlights businesses from our very own communities, featuring everything from restaurants to retail. Check out which ones are featured near you.
Shea Radiance
FEATURED BLACK OWNED BUSINESS
Shea Radiance is an inclusive beauty brand based in Baltimore, MD that supports and promotes financial independence for woman globally. Every product – from hair conditioner to body wash – is made from simple, wholesome ingredients sourced from women-led supply chains in Benin, Ghana and Nigeria.
Empowering Our Communities
Multicultural Small Business Labs
The M&T Bank Multicultural Small Business Lab is an intensive, weeks-long program designed to develop racially and ethnically diverse owners of businesses. The Lab promotes business and financial inclusion through empowerment, providing owners with much-needed access to information, tools, resources, and connections they need to grow and thrive. Participants are presented with tools and opportunities to increase their visibility, accelerate their business, and achieve success.
CELLFUL, LLC
Harlem, NY Small Business Lab
Chief Juicing Officer, Alton Weekes, founded Cellfull Organics, a cold-pressed juice company that helps customers detox, cleanse, and restore body systems by liquefying fruits and vegetables for efficient bodily absorption. Cellful Organics hopes to improve the focus, mental clarity, energy, and immune systems within the Black community. After the program, Alton’s business was announced as the second-place winner in the pitch competition, landing his business $12,000 prize.
Pawsome Pet Products
Bridgeport, CT Small Business Lab
Our first place winner Pawsome Pet Products, founded by Brandon Ross, earned the top prize of $6,000. This business specializes in a multifunctional, multipurpose pet carriers, including a "2 in 1 Pawsome Pet Carrier n'car seat".
Ari Parson PR
Buffalo, NY Small Business Lab
Our first place winner Ari Parson PR, led by Porsha Ari Parson, earned the $10,000 top prize. This business is a marketing and public relations agency that develops communication strategies for professional brands and organizations. Ari Parson PR's vision is to ensure growth and influence for the brands it serves through creative publicity and target marketing campaigns.
Celebrate Your Cultural Identity
CUSTOM DEBIT AND CREDIT CARDS
We are proud to release new card image options that enable you to celebrate your cultural identity. Show off what's important to you by choosing an image from our library or uploading one of your own. No matter which option you choose, you'll be getting a card that allows you to access your funds in person, online and over the phone to avoid paying with cash or checks.
