New, free smartphone app highlights Black-owned businesses in Milwaukee County

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A new smartphone app is helping users find black-owned businesses in Milwaukee County.

It's called "MKE Black." 

Already, the free app features nearly 250 restaurants, shops, health and beauty services and more.

It also has calendars for local events and jobs fairs. The creators, both from Milwaukee, say their goal is all about bridging gaps.

"Often when you see tourist sites for Milwaukee there's the East Side, Bay View, Downtown," co-founder Rick Banks said. "And so we sought to fill that gap of promoting not just those areas but also the rest of Milwaukee as well."

"There also is a map view so you can see what's close to your location and you can call the business or visit the website," added co-founder Paul Wellington.

You can download the "MKE Black" app on android devices, but the creators say an i-Phone version is coming soon.

Banks and Wellington are also hosting a launch party Monday night at six p.m. at Skybox Sports Bar in Milwaukee.