CINCINNATI : The Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce, the largest African American chamber in Ohio, held its annual meeting, Jan. 21, to highlight the many successes of 2019. The event was held at Cincinnati’s COPA Lounge on Sycamore Street.

“As we celebrate the successes, growth and expanding influence of the African American Chamber of Commerce, there is tremendous reason for optimism and excitement in 2020,” said Eric Kearney, president and CEO of the African American Chamber. “Working on behalf of our members is a privilege and responsibility we cherish as we enter a new decade, together.”

“The African American Chamber is working purposefully to create long-lasting and thoughtful partnerships that are beneficial to all. We will re-energize our efforts to elevate the power and influence of our members, our African American businesses and our community of consumers. Additionally, we will position this Chamber as the thought leader for all African American business endeavors,” added Jason Dunn, Board Chair of the African American Chamber.

2019 African American Chamber Achievements:

• The African American Chamber helped infuse over a half-million dollars in capital, more than double the 2019 Chamber goal, into the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky African American business community.
• The African American Chamber successfully advocated for the inclusion of race when filing for an LLC or corporation in Ohio. This is significant because it will allow Ohio to track, for the first time ever, the number of African American businesses created.
• The African American Chamber was chosen by the Ohio Development Services Agency as one of just seven partners to operate Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC) to help minority and disadvantaged businesses get off the ground, grow and sustain success.
• The African American Chamber introduced a new podcast and radio show, “Rise to Shine” on Soul 101.5 FM &1230 AM radio. The platforms, hosted by Chamber president Eric Kearney, allow member businesses to spread the word about their missions – and to address critical issues affecting minority business and the African American community.
• The African American Chamber moved its headquarters to 2303 Gilbert Avenue, bringing the Chamber closer to its member businesses. The new headquarters are strategically located closer to the Central Business District and within miles of Cincinnati’s innovation district, high-tech businesses, and the region’s entrepreneurial hub.
• The African American Chamber worked to become a complete 360-degree chamber, offering programming, advocacy, services, and networking. This positions the Chamber for growth as it serves members and the community like never before.
• Nearly 4,000 individuals attended programs hosted by the African American Chamber. The Chamber offers over 120 program activities throughout the year to meet the many needs of small, emerging, and large businesses.