The African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE is a membership-based nonprofit organization that provides Black business owners and entrepreneurs in the Delaware Valley with the resources they need to build thriving businesses.
Historically, African-American businesses have faced challenges to access resources to successfully launch and sustain their businesses. Although there have been major improvements locally and nationally, Black business owners still lack access to both financial and social capital. We aim to overcome these barriers in three ways: through educational programming, premier networking opportunities, and advocacy.
We host events throughout the year to educate our members on the issues they face daily as well as provide a safe space for them to network with like-minded entrepreneurs interested in establishing a strong network. Members and non-members alike attend our events and leave with more information and contacts than they arrived with. One of our most anticipated events of the year includes our Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony. Each year we attract more than 700 business leaders from across the region to highlight the work of members, partners, supporters, and our accomplishments as well.
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We also work with our corporate members to level the playing field and increase the number of diverse suppliers who receive contracting opportunities. With Philadelphia being a majority-minority city, it is imperative that diverse business owners participate in local government and corporate contracting opportunities. This is often a great way for business owners to raise the capital they need and further develop their portfolio of work.
As a 21st century Chamber of Commerce, we continuously seek innovative ways to serve our members and build the next generation of business leaders. This includes the launch of our Young Professional Advisory Council which is tasked with bridging the divide between younger entrepreneurs and business resources. This also includes hosting events aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in addition to ensuring that they are represented through various platforms, and being a champion for a business community that reflects the diversity of the region.
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