About Sokoni
Empowering Black entrepreneurs across Ontario since 2017
Our Story
Sokoni—meaning “marketplace” in Swahili—was born from a simple yet powerful vision: to create a thriving economic ecosystem where Black entrepreneurs can flourish.
Founded in Windsor in 2017 with a $3,000 Multicultural grant, Sokoni started as a grassroots initiative to address the unique challenges faced by Black business owners in accessing markets and customers.
In 2021, we received BEP (Black Entrepreneurship Program) grant funding from FedDev Ontario, enabling us to expand our reach and impact. Today, Sokoni serves entrepreneurs across five major Ontario cities: Windsor, London, Kitchener, Hamilton, and Toronto.
Delivered by NCCEEP (National Council for Community Economic and Enterprise Partners), Sokoni continues to grow as a bridge between Black-owned businesses and customers who value quality, authenticity, and community support.
135+
Products Listed
59
Active Vendors
5
Cities Served
2017
Year Founded
Where Ontario’s Creators
Grow Together
We believe every idea deserves a stage and every hardworking business deserves visibility.
Here’s how we help you succeed:
01
Digital Marketplace
Sell online and access customers across Ontario — from Windsor to Toronto and everywhere in between.
Business Address
Establish trust with a professional brand identity and a credible business presence your customers can rely on.
02
03
Marketing & Promotion
Gain exposure through targeted social media campaigns, digital marketing, and curated features that put your brand in front of the right audience.
Mentorship & Business Support
Receive expert guidance, one-on-one mentorship, and hands-on business support designed to help you scale confidently and sustainably.
04
05
Workshops & Training
Build essential marketing, financial literacy, and digital skills through hands-on workshops tailored to small business owners and creators.
Year-Round Visibility
Keep your brand active and engaging all year long — not just during pop-up season. Consistent presence means consistent growth.
06
07
Community Network
Collaborate, connect, and grow alongside fellow entrepreneurs and creators who share your drive. Together, we go further.
For Our Community
Discover the Unique
Find one-of-a-kind products you won’t see in big-box stores — from handcrafted goods to authentic cuisine, every item carries a story and cultural richness.
Fuel Local Economies
Every purchase directly supports Black entrepreneurs and their families, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment that strengthens entire communities across Ontario.
Build Real Connections
Meet the makers behind the products. Sokoni fosters authentic relationships between customers and creators, building a community rooted in shared values and cultural pride.
Get Started
How It Works
For Buyers
1
Search for Items
Use the search panel and filters to find exactly what you’re looking for.
2
Contact the Seller
Chat on Sokoni or call via phone. Discuss details and negotiate price.
3
Meet & Pay Safely
Meet seller in a public place. Pay only after collecting your item.
4
Leave Feedback
Your feedback helps other buyers and builds our community.
For Sellers
1
Register for Free
Sign up using your email and phone number. It’s completely free!
2
Take Great Photos
Use your smartphone to capture your items in the best light.
3
Create Your Listing
Add title, description, price and category. Submit for review.
4
Start Selling
Your ad goes live within hours. Answer messages and make sales!