Influential & Forward-moving Business Organization Championing Economic Empowerment and Small Development

Photo: In 2019 the Metro District Office of the United States Small Business Administration named the President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.'s President Phil Andrews as its 2019 Small Business Champion for 14 Counties Downstate, New York and Surrounding Area

New York, New York — November 24th 2025 — Over the past fifteen years, the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. has emerged as one of the most influential and forward-moving business organizations in the region, championing economic empowerment, small business development, and equitable access to opportunities. Since its founding in 2010, the Chamber has steadily expanded its footprint, strengthened its partnerships, and advanced its mission to support diverse entrepreneurs across industries and counties.

As the Chamber closes out 2025, it proudly reflects on a dynamic timeline of impact — marking major milestones, achievements, and expansions that have shaped the organization into a leading force for minority-owned businesses, small enterprises, and community-based economic development.

2010–2025 Major Milestones

2010–2013: Founding Years & Early Momentum

• 2010: Chamber officially launches with a mission to increase economic opportunities for minority-owned and small businesses.
• Established foundational governance structure and early membership base.
• Began hosting introductory networking mixers, small business resource sessions, and community engagement events.
• Initiated the organization’s first partnerships with local civic groups, community organizations, and small business advocates.

2014–2016: Expansion, Recognition & Community Presence

• Chamber experiences significant membership growth, expanding reach within Nassau and Suffolk counties.
• Launched quarterly educational programs focused on procurement, contracting, certification, and capacity building.
• Introduced an annual membership drive that became a signature event in the region.
• Recognized by several community institutions for leadership, economic vision, and entrepreneurial support.

2017–2019: Strengthening Regional Impact

• Expanded collaborations with major regional partners, including local municipalities, economic development agencies, libraries, and corporate sponsors.
• Hosted its first large-scale regional business summit, drawing professionals, government officials, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
• Chamber leaders received accolades from regional chambers, business councils, and community groups for outstanding service.
• Organization began formalizing its advocacy work in access to capital, business certification, and small business equity.

2020–2021: Resilience & Innovation During Challenging Times

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber played a vital role in helping businesses navigate relief programs, small business grants, and emergency resources.
• Provided virtual workshops, online networking, and digital capacity-building tools to ensure continuity of service.
• Strengthened relationships with regional small business agencies and became a key connector for technical assistance providers.
• Accelerated digital transformation, launching new online communication tools and expanding its virtual reach.

2022–2023: Regional Leadership & Multi-County Expansion

• Expanded footprint across additional counties, strengthening its regional identity and influence.
• Hosted new signature events highlighting supplier diversity, small business finance, and entrepreneurship pathways.
• Launched partnerships with major organizations such as Empire State Development, regional Small Business Development Centers, and university-based entrepreneurial programs.
• Recognized regionally and nationally for promoting small business growth, diversity, and economic inclusion.
• Chamber leadership invited to participate in policy discussions, national minority business forums, and statewide initiatives.

2024: Strengthening Capacity, Partnerships & Visibility

• Rolled out enhanced membership benefits including access to training, mentorship, and speaker series with industry leaders.
• Introduced multi-platform branding, expanding visibility across digital channels including LinkedIn, Eventbrite, and Google Business Profile.
• Developed collaborations with organizations such as 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. and local foundations to advance the economic power of underserved communities.
• Hosted high-impact networking events, procurement workshops, and collaborative civic-business roundtables.
• Chamber’s national and regional reputation continued to rise, with leaders highlighted for their long-standing commitment to economic empowerment.

2025: A Transformative Year of Expansion & New Initiatives

• Positioned for major growth entering 2026, with new chapters, expanded member services, and enhanced community-based initiatives.
• Successfully hosted Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Month programming, business forums, and partnership-driven events in collaboration with municipalities and corporate entities.
• Launched Pre–Small Business Saturday Brunch aimed at preparing small businesses for holiday-season success.
• Celebrated 15 years of service with major recognitions, community tributes, and milestone reflections.
• Strengthened the Chamber’s digital transformation with upgraded media kits, brand identity assets, and expanded press visibility.
• Continued building partnerships across New York City, Long Island, and regional markets — establishing the Chamber as a powerful leader for minority and small business economic advancement.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

The Chamber enters its next chapter with focus, momentum, and renewed commitment to championing economic equity. Plans include:

• Expanded membership across multiple counties
• New corporate partnerships
• Increased access to capital initiatives
• Advanced training programs
• Enhanced advocacy for small and minority businesses
• Continued expansion of business development services

The Chamber’s fifteen-year legacy is a testament to collaboration, leadership, and unwavering dedication to uplifting entrepreneurs and strengthening communities.

About the Chamber - The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., the largest African American Chamber of Commerce in New York State and a leading regional advocate for economic development, provides services, training, resources, and opportunities for businesses throughout Long Island and New York State. LIAACC’s mission is to advance and promote economic development, advocate for equitable access to opportunities, and support the growth of small and minority-owned businesses.

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