Reconstructing a New Vision for Business Success

The National Black Chamber of Commerce® (NBCC) embodies more than a century of organized advocacy for Black-owned businesses in America. Tracing its origins to Booker T. Washington’s National Negro Business League (1900) and formally incorporated in 1992, NBCC stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, leadership, and progress.

OUR JOURNEY ROOTED IN HISTORY: In 1900, with support from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, Booker T. Washington founded the National Negro Business League—uniting 40 towns to strengthen and promote Black-owned enterprises during the height of segregation. Though national momentum slowed in the 1920s, the League laid a powerful foundation for future economic advocacy and empowerment.

Building on that legacy, the National Black Chamber of Commerce® (NBCC) was founded in 1993 by Harry Alford and Kay DeBow. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., NBCC became the first national federation of Black chambers of commerce, committed to advancing economic mobility through entrepreneurship and free enterprise. For over 30 years, NBCC has expanded its reach—now uniting more than 200 chambers across 40 states and 50 countries—empowering Black business communities across the globe. For over 30 years, NBCC has expanded its reach—now uniting more than 200 chambers across 40 states and 50 countries—empowering Black business communities across the globe.

Leading the Way in a Digital Economy:

• Empowering Smart Digital Infrastructure
• Accelerating Access to Capital and Procurement Opportunities
• Building Workforce Pipelines Through Digital Job Hubs
• Fueling Visibility with Media, Marketing & Commerce Tools
• Activating Data-Driven Insights for Smarter Growth
• Connecting Global Diaspora through a Unified Ecosystem