The Florida Association of Black Chambers of Commerce leaders came together from across the state to network and solidify relationships that will enabling underserved communities to thrive. It also provided an important opportunity for small businesses and their needs.

The two day event was sponsored by the Minority and Small Business, Entrepreneurship & Capital (MSBEC) division of Enterprise Florida and featured a kick-off welcome reception and a press conference on the steps of the old Capitol followed by meetings with key legislators and State of Florida staff.

 

“By supporting small, black businesses, we can create jobs and a stronger Florida economy for all Floridians,” said Coordinator Shaheewa Jarret, Esq., (President Broward County Black Chamber of Commerce). Two bills presented at the capitol was SB 1530 which will require $500k appropriation for any vendor awarded a competitively solicited contract for commodities or contractual services to use certified minority, woman-owned, or veteran-owned business enterprises as subcontractors and HB 1385 are critical to ensure that small, black businesses can contract with the state.  This bill would provide a goal for participation as well as an appropriation for a disparity to study.  During the meetings, chamber reps we were able to get additional bill sponsors and support to increase the chances of the bills passing.  “I’m excited to join these esteemed chamber presidents across the state, together we can build a machine that can churn out opportunities and funding for minority chambers, said, Dr. Valecia Brooks Dunbar,  President, Greater First Coast Chamber of Commerce.

Shown l-r is Grasford Smith, Esq. (President, Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach), Tarnish Claitt (- President, Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce), Katrina Tuggerson (President, Capital City Chamber of Commerce), Eric Knowles (President, Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce), Shaheewa Jarrett Gelin, Esq. (- Founder, Florida Association of Black Chambers of Commerce & Broward County Black Chamber), Tanisha Nunn Gary, Esq. (President, African-American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida), Brian Wyer (President, Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce), Chauncelor Howell – President, (Treasure Coast Black Chamber of Commerce), Antonio Jefferson (President, Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce of Florida), Oliver Brown (South Florida Black Chamber of Commerce), Dr. Valecia Brooks Dunbar – President, (Greater First Coast Chamber of Commerce).