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
For Entrepreneurs
How Sokoni Helps
More than a marketplace — a comprehensive ecosystem designed to help Black entrepreneurs succeed at every stage of their journey.
Your Storefront, Zero Cost
List your products and services on a professional digital marketplace at no cost. Sokoni puts your brand in front of customers across Ontario who are actively looking to support Black-owned businesses — giving you visibility without the overhead of building your own platform.
Pop-Up Markets That Build Brands
Go beyond the screen. Sokoni’s curated pop-up events across five Ontario cities give you the chance to connect face-to-face with customers, test new products in real time, and build the kind of brand presence that creates loyal, returning buyers.
Resources to Sharpen Your Edge
From digital marketing workshops to financial management webinars, Sokoni equips you with practical business knowledge. These aren’t generic sessions — they’re tailored to the real challenges and opportunities facing Black entrepreneurs in Ontario today.
A Network That Has Your Back
Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be isolating. Sokoni connects you with a community of fellow business owners who share experiences, form partnerships, and lift each other up. The relationships you build here become one of your greatest business assets.
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.
Our Mission
Building Economic Equity, One Business at a Time
Remove Barriers
Eliminate obstacles to market access so Black entrepreneurs can reach customers freely.
Create Sustainability
Build lasting economic opportunities, not temporary fixes, within Black communities.
Foster a Thriving Ecosystem
Create supportive infrastructure where Black-owned businesses don’t just survive — they thrive.
Connect Quality With Purpose
Bridge the gap between exceptional products and customers who value supporting diverse businesses.