Long Island African American Chamber Highlights 15 Years Of Business Support Across LI

LONG ISLAND, NY — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce is marking 15 years of service in 2025, highlighting more than a decade of work supporting minority-owned, small and emerging businesses across Long Island and the greater New York region.

Founded in 2010, the Chamber was created to help address long-standing barriers faced by minority entrepreneurs by connecting them with access to capital, contracts, education and advocacy. Since its launch, the organization has worked with more than 1,500 businesses, facilitated millions of dollars in business opportunities, and reached thousands of entrepreneurs through programming and outreach.

The Chamber reports hosting hundreds of educational workshops, forums and business clinics over the past 15 years, while also building partnerships with corporations, municipalities and state agencies aimed at expanding procurement and economic development opportunities for minority- and small-business owners.

In addition to business education, the organization serves as an advocate for minority businesses at the local, county, and state levels, engaging in policy discussions related to MWBE participation, procurement equity, and inclusive economic growth. The Chamber also assists businesses with access to lenders, grants, supplier diversity programs, and MWBE certification.

Community impact has remained a central focus of the Chamber’s work, including initiatives tied to job creation, youth and workforce development, and next-generation entrepreneurship designed to strengthen local economies.

Signature initiatives over the years have included Minority Enterprise Development Month programming, Small Business Saturday and buy-local campaigns, corporate and government matchmaking forums, entrepreneur training series, business expos, and philanthropic partnerships with aligned nonprofit organizations.

Under the leadership of President Phil Andrews, the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce has grown into a regional business advocacy organization focused on economic empowerment and opportunity creation.

Looking ahead, Chamber officials said priorities include expanding digital and regional business support, increasing access to capital and contracting pipelines, strengthening corporate and public-sector partnerships, and preparing local businesses to compete in broader markets.

More information about the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce and membership opportunities is available at liaacc.org.