From Collaboration to Exploitation: A Black Woman’s Fight for Fairness

Why Nikki Porcher Ended Her Partnership with H&M—and What It Means for DEI in Business

Nikki Porcher, the founder of Buy From a Black Woman (BFABW), has long been a champion for Black women entrepreneurs, dedicating her career to amplifying their voices and ensuring their businesses thrive in a competitive marketplace. What started as a grassroots movement in 2016 quickly evolved into a nationally recognized nonprofit, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to empowering Black women in business. When BFABW secured a partnership with retail giant H&M in 2021, it appeared to be a significant milestone—one that promised not just visibility but also tangible support for Black women-owned businesses across the country. However, in early 2025, the partnership came to an abrupt and contentious end, raising questions about corporate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the current climate.