ABOUT THE BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SUMMIT COUNTY (BCCSC) Our Mission "The Black Chamber of Commerce Summit County develops, empowers, promotes and supports Black-owned businesses by providing resources and a unified voice advocating for the interest of Black-owned businesses to thrive, achieve success, and amplify their contributions to the broader community." Our Purpose We unify our resources, knowledge, and connections to empower Black-owned businesses to thrive and be sustainable. Our Vision "Fostering a thriving, equitable, and inclusive business ecosystem where Black-owned businesses excel, drive sustainable economic growth, and enrich the prosperity of Summit County’s community for generations to come." Founding LeadersThe BCCSC was co-founded by visionary leaders Robert E. DeJournett (President & CEO) and Misty E. Beasley (Vice President & COO). With over 30 years of combined experience in minority business development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), they launched BCCSC with a clear vision: closing economic disparities and fueling inclusive economic growth in Akron and Summit County. Why It MattersAkron’s Black population represents nearly one-third of the region, yet a 2017 Elevate Greater Akron report highlighted systemic exclusion from economic growth. Left unaddressed, this gap threatens local innovation and prosperity. BCCSC exists to reverse that trend, enabling Black business owners to take their rightful place in the economic ecosystem. We are committed to being a catalyst for sustainable growth and to inspire similar efforts nationwide. Brand Pillars & Principles Advocacy & Influence: Championing Black‑owned businesses through policy engagement and strategic partnerships. Empowerment & Growth: Mentorship, workshops, capital access, and development programming. Integrity & Impact: Building trust, long‑term capacity, and community leadership. Programs & Services Education & Training: Workshops, Small Business Academy, webinars, GrowthWheel planning, and coaching. Resource Access: Funding opportunities, capital connections, B2B initiatives, and member directory. Networking & Visibility: Business mixers, expos, media features, and spotlight programs like Business Crawl. Impact Measurement: Economic impact study and empowerment workshops geared to community outcomes. We invite individuals, business leaders, and stakeholders to join our movement. Your partnership helps amplify impact through funding, volunteering, or spreading the word. Together, we build inclusive economic opportunities for all. |