Washington, D.C. — Last week, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) proudly announced the historic acquisition of the former Black Entertainment Television (BET) Campus, a 7.88-acre landmark once home to Robert L. Johnson’s groundbreaking media empire. With an investment of more than $38 million, USBC will transform this iconic site into the USBC Innovation Campus — The Epicenter of Business and Commerce.

This monumental achievement marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the future of Black enterprise. The new campus will serve as a national engine for business growth, innovation, and community impact rooted in Washington, D.C., extending its influence nationwide.

More than a milestone for USBC, the acquisition represents a transformational investment in the city’s economic future. It strengthens Washington, D.C.’s position as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural advancement, driving job creation, small business expansion, and generational wealth for years to come.

For over 16 years, USBC has been the national voice of Black businesses. With this milestone, USBC enters a new era as the global voice of Black enterprise.

Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., stated: “When I reflect on the journey of the U.S. Black Chambers over the past 16 years, I see a story of resilience, vision, and progress. This campus is the next chapter of that story — not just a building, but a living symbol of what happens when we claim our space, own our future, and build institutions that outlast us. The USBC Innovation Campus is about more than today’s entrepreneurs; it’s about ensuring that generations to come inherit a place where their ideas, voices, and businesses can thrive.”

Leadership & Vision

The successful acquisition of the historic BET Campus was guided by the strategic leadership of Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO; Antwanye Ford, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors; Necole Parker, CEO of The ELOCEN Group and USBC Board Member; Rashad Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer of The ELOCEN Group; and Alisa Joseph, Chief Operating Officer of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Their collective vision and steadfast commitment united public and private partners to bring this once-in-a-generation investment in Black enterprise to fruition.

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. extends its deepest gratitude to its Board of Directors for their steadfast leadership and unwavering support in bringing this historic vision to life. Their guidance and commitment were instrumental in securing the future home of Black business excellence.

More Than a Building. It’s a Movement.

The USBC Innovation Campus will act as a community staple designed for creators, entrepreneurs, chamber leaders, and innovators alike. Whether through virtual office options, co-working spaces, business incubators, or content creation studios, the campus will serve as a one-stop destination for the future of small businesses.

As part of this historic moment, USBC has launched its “Power the Legacy” Capital Campaign, a multi-year fundraising initiative inviting individuals, corporations, and foundations to partner in building this future. Contributions will fund the development of training centers, technology infrastructure, and community spaces that directly impact thousands of businesses nationwide.

For more information about the USBC Innovation Campus and to support the “Power the Legacy” Campaign, visit https://usblackchambers.org/usbc-campus/.

Media and Press Contact:
Corporate Communications
Tiffany Murphy
Head of Media and Marketing
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
tiffany@usbcnetwork.com

The post The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Acquires Historic Former BET Campus, Launching a New Era of Black Business, Innovation, and Economic Power first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

The post Famous Amos Recognizes Three Emerging Black-Owned Enterprises with $50,000 Business Awards first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

By Eden Harris · Updated March 28, 2025

The United States Black Chamber Inc. (USBC), on Thursday, March 27th, hosted its annual “Power 50 Women of Influence” event honoring a diverse group of women from various industries.

This honor, for Ingrid Best, the founder and CEO of IBest Wines, a South African-sourced product, was “surreal.” While Best is known as a spirit and wine marketing force, having worked with Moët Hennessy, Bacardi and Diageo, she said getting this honor feels good when fundraising has proven to be a challenge as a Black woman.

“Raising capital for IBest Wines has been a struggle.” And not because I’m not a great founder, not because it’s not a great brand, but because historically Black women have a really hard time raising capital for wonderful businesses,” she told ESSENCE. And that’s tough, right? But my faith is so much stronger than my fear or a momentary challenge. Or some folks that just haven’t gotten it right and invested in us yet, right? Faith over fear.”

Research from a Harvard Business Review article shows that while 17% of Black women in the United States start or manage new ventures, a mere three percent achieve sustained success.

Best continues to prove her marketing prowess when she offered her wine to all 50 tables with a guest list surpassing 300 people at the event. In 2024, Best was accepted into American Airlines Global First-Class Wine Program, which will feature her wine in their first class section.

With President Donald Trump’s latest executive order “Continuing the Reduction of The Federal Bureaucracy,” aiming to cut the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) chairwoman and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, D-NY., addressed this at the event, highlighting the gumption of Black business owners amid funding challenges.

Clarke told the audience that despite “turmoil and uncertainty in our national politics, our spirit and tenacity remains strong. Even in hard times, we continue fighting to make our community, our country, a better place.”

Senior vice president of basketball operations and team development at the New Orleans Pelicans, Swin Cash-Canal said this recognition in the nation’s capital made her feel “seen.”

“I felt so much power, and I felt like our ancestors [are] in this room. That’s why I think it’s a little bit overwhelming for me because a lot of times in sports, I’m in male-dominated spaces. When I get into these spaces, I just really feel my cup,” the two-time Olympic gold medalist said.

The luncheon celebrated Nigerian-American Luvvie Ajayi Jones, a four-time, New York Times best-selling author and CEO of The Book Academy.

Asked what was her I didn’t come to play moment that made people sit up and take notice of her, she told ESSENCE: “When I started writing Scandal recaps, a lot of people started paying attention to my words because they would watch the show on Thursday nights and on Friday mornings they’ll come on my blog and from that point on I feel like my career has taken off in different ways.”

Angela Yee, former radio personality of The Breakfast Club and host of Way Up with Angela Yee  said getting together to celebrate women meant a lot to her because sometimes women can feel discouraged and feel divided. Yee added but when people come together in these settings, it shows how much power Black women truly have.

Regarding power, Yee just purchased a 30-unit building in Mid-town Detroit, a power move she made that she said she was surprised by. Ten of her units will go to formerly incarcerated women.

“Finally getting this building done in Detroit [was a power move that surprised me]. We bought this 30-unit building in Midtown Detroit. It took us two years to get this rehab, and finally, people start moving in on April 18, [2025],” she told ESSENCE, adding: “I did not think it was going to happen, and I’m just happy that we got to the finish line.”

Helping people to the finish line is a task Wendy Osefo takes on as an assistant professor of Education at John Hopkins University. The Nigerian-American was honored alongside other women and she leaves a message of hope to women by encouraging them to keep going despite challenges.

“It doesn’t matter what anyone says; it matters what you think and how you believe in yourself, and it may not happen tomorrow. It may not happen next month, but your dreams will be [a] reality, so just keep on going forward,” she said.

Osefo is also known for her participation in the Real Housewives of Potomac; however, she focuses on being a citizen of the world through her other roles.

USBC president, founder and CEO Ron Busby Sr., in his speech, told the audience that from boardrooms to the ballot box, Black women continue to move mountains and his chamber will continue to support their businesses, voices and wins.

Egypt Sherrod, the former V-103 radio personality, was among the honorees. Sherrod carved a lane out for herself in TV after leaving radio to start an HGTV show called “Married to Real Estate” with her husband, DJ Mike Jackson. The show is in its fourth year. However, for Sherrod, before her TV show’s success, she tried to align with an image that others projected on her.

“I was often auditioning for roles and positions and jobs of how people saw me. The power move I made was by saying, ‘I’m tired of begging for a seat at the table or auditioning for a seat at the table.’ I’m going to go over here to build my own table. I’m going to go over here and create my own show, build my own company, develop my own furniture line [Indigo Road by Egypt Sherrod] and do it my way,” she said.

For women looking for a blueprint to success, Sherrod says “Walk your own path,” adding: “You can use my journey and how I found my courage to continue to stand and rise … but you have to carve your own path because in you doing so, now you’re encouraging the next generation.”

Sherrod touted the success of her businesses, noting, “We have 110 employees. Designers, realtors, administrators, creatives, videographers, everyone in our production company, in our real estate brokerage, in our design firm. We created 110 opportunities, and that’s just in one year. I’m walking in my purpose.”

For women wondering how to win in business Sherrod told ESSENCE: “When we make a choice about what we want the narrative to be. The universe aligns in support of us.”

The post Power And Purpose: U.S. Black Chamber Inc. Honors 50 Women Shaping The Future first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

(CHICAGO – MARCH 12, 2025) – Ferrero North America launched the 2025 Famous Amos Ingredients for Success (IFS) Entrepreneurs Initiative today, in partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Now in its fifth year, the IFS program creates pathways for early-stage Black business owners to thrive by providing a total of $150,000 in awards each year. IFS awards three recipients $50,000 in addition to mentorship and access to networking and educational resources. Created to honor the brand founder Wally Amos’ legacy, IFS celebrates the qualities that make business owners unique and fosters long-term success for their companies.

“Wally Amos was boldly original, and his vision and impact are still part of Famous Amos to this day,” said Rachna Patel, Vice President of Marketing for Famous Amos. “Ingredients for Success pays tribute to the brand’s roots by helping early-stage Black business owners work toward their dreams – ultimately helping fuel a community where individuality and innovation can thrive long-term.”

Eligible businesses must be: at minimum 90% Black-owned, in operation for five years or less, headquartered in the United States, and owned by individuals 21 years or older. Applications can be submitted at FamousAmosIngredientsForSuccess.com now through April 23, 2025. All qualified submissions are judged by a panel that includes renowned Black entrepreneurs. This year’s panel of judges include:

• Shawn Amos – Entrepreneur, author, and son of the late brand founder, Wally Amos
• Steve Canal – Founder of ONE Venture Group, best-selling author, and branding expert
• Brittany Rhodes – Founder of Math Equals Me and previous IFS winner

The post Famous Amos Kicks Off 2025 Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative and Launches “Famously You” Campaign in its 50th Anniversary first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

As an outgrowth of the call by Dr. Jamal Bryant, Pastor, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, for a 40-Day fast of Target, USBC President & CEO Ron Busby, Sr. highlighted ByBlack as a solution to shop directly with Black firms. The 40-Day Target Fast, beginning March 5, was launched to encourage consumers to refrain from purchasing from Target and similar corporations that have publicly dismantled or removed DEI programs and initiatives.

“Our mission with this fast is accountability, justice, and transformation,” said Ron Busby, Sr., President & CEO of USBC. “We are standing together to ensure corporations prioritize diversity, equity, and economic inclusion—not just in words, but in actions. ByBlack’s Product Search is our answer to those asking, ‘Where can I shop instead?’ We are providing the tools for an economic shift—one that keeps dollars circulating within our own communities.”

Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic and the George Floyd social justice movement, the ByBlack Platform is the nation’s largest no-cost Black business directory and certification program, featuring over 60,000 businesses, including 2,000+ ByBlack Certified enterprises. The launch of ByBlack’s Product Search marks a major expansion, making it easier than ever for consumers to discover and shop Black-owned products. Previously, consumers could only access a directory of Black-owned businesses, but as of today, they can now search for individual products offered by these businesses through ByBlack’s enhanced search experience.

ByBlack’s Product Search features an initial 120 Black brands and over 500 products across various categories, including home goods, health and beauty, cleaning supplies, electronics, stationery, and more. The businesses showcased include popular brands that are currently sold at major retailers, alongside emerging ByBlack Certified brands and small businesses that consumers may not yet know about.

“Our approach is rooted in accessibility and impact,” said Braxton Gunter, Head of ByBlack Engineering. “We are building intuitive, user-friendly solutions that connect consumers directly to Black-owned brands and businesses, reinforcing the importance of community-driven commerce.”

Consumers can participate in the 40-Day Target Fast by redirecting their spending to Black-owned businesses, utilizing ByBlack’s Product Search to find alternatives. “This fast is about economic empowerment,” said Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant. “It is about demonstrating the strength of our collective buying power and ensuring that corporations understand our demands for justice and inclusion. We invite everyone to join us by visiting www.targetfast.org to learn more and take action.”

To support the movement and explore Black-owned products and services, visit www.byblack.us today. Black entrepreneurs can also onboard their business to the platform and get certified at no-cost at www.byblack.us/signup.

Media Contact:
Alicea Gay, VP of External Affairs & Certification, email alicea@usblackchambers.org

###

About U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.:
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.

The post U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. & ByBlack Unveil Product Search Feature to Empower Consumers Engaging in National Fasts and Corporate Boycotts Over DEI Rollbacks first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

Washington, DC, July 25, 2023 – The 2023 U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) National Conference, held from July 19th to 21st at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., concluded with resounding success, gathering over 600 entrepreneurial enthusiasts from across the nation. The event was an unprecedented celebration of Black entrepreneurship, leadership, advocacy, and economic empowerment.

Kicking off the conference on Wednesday, July 19th, USBC President & CEO, Ron Busby Sr. delivered the State of Black Business Address and joined the dynamic and renowned Ed Gordon for the much-anticipated armchair conversation. The two leaders engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue on entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and fostering a supportive environment for Black businesses to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

The conference featured a diverse lineup of distinguished speakers who lent their invaluable insights. During the event, Ron Busby, Sr. joined the stage with National Action Network President & Founder Rev. Al Sharpton, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) President & CEO Derrick Johnson, and National Black Business Month Founder John Templeton to discuss the state of Black America while highlighting the importance of unity and collaboration in driving economic growth within the Black community.

This year’s national convening also received exciting addresses and remarks from esteemed public officials, including the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Deputy Secretary Adewale “Wally” Adeyemo, U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency’s Under Secretary Donald Cravins Jr., Washington, D.C.’s Mayor Muriel Bowser, U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Rep. Glen Ivey (D-MD), Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX), and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), among others, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to advancing Black entrepreneurship.

Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) took the main stage during the conference to express his unwavering support for the USBC’s mission to uplift Black commerce and drive forward the Black wealth agenda. His pledge to collaborate with the USBC marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of economic prosperity for Black-owned businesses.

Thursday, July 20th, was marked by a captivating keynote address from the newly appointed President of Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Reverend Dr. Frederick Haynes III. His empowering message resonated with attendees, inspiring them to strive for greatness and overcome obstacles in their entrepreneurial journey. As Rainbow PUSH and USBC look to join forces, we are committed to bridging the gap between Black businesses and Black faith-based institutions with a shared vision of designing a prosperous future for both the Black business community and the communities they serve.

During the USBC 2023 National Conference, outstanding individuals and organizations were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the Black business community. Rep. Al Green (D-TX) was honored with the prestigious Advocate of the Year award, acknowledging his relentless efforts in advancing Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Google received the Corporation of the Year award for the company’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the business landscape. The Upper State New York Black Chamber received the coveted Chamber of the Year award, celebrating its outstanding leadership and impactful initiatives within the Black business community.

“The USBC National Conference served as an extraordinary gathering of visionaries, trailblazers, and change-makers. As we conclude this year’s conference, we leave with renewed inspiration to drive transformative economic change and foster a future where Black businesses can thrive, uplifting our communities and making a lasting impact on the Black wealth agenda. The remarkable energy and enthusiasm displayed by the over 600 Black chamber leaders and business owners reaffirmed the resilience of Black businesses. This event underscored our unwavering commitment to empowering Black chambers and entrepreneurs, who remain the driving force behind our communities and the nation. I’d also like to highlight that meeting with President Biden and senior administration officials on Bidenomics has been a tremendous honor, perfectly aligning with our mission to close the three-day event.” stated Ron Busby, President & CEO, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.

Walmart Business, one of the event’s title sponsors, facilitated informative mainstage sessions, offering valuable insights on how Black businesses can transition from e-commerce to traditional retail, expanding their reach to the aisles of brick-and-mortar stores. Wells Fargo, another title sponsor, demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and diversity within the business landscape.

This year’s National Conference also witnessed groundbreaking moments with the signing of historical Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These significant agreements included an MOU with the MBDA, signifying a strong partnership in advancing opportunities for Black businesses through support and resources. Additionally, the MOUs with the Botoga Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Trade highlighted a commitment to driving global commerce and opening doors for Black entrepreneurs on an international scale. Another pivotal partnership was solidified through an agreement with Lendistry, which aims to enhance access to capital and financial resources for Black businesses. These historic MOUs underscore the USBC’s dedication to fostering growth and prosperity within the Black business community, propelling it towards new heights of success and impact.

As the USBC National Conference drew to a successful close, a momentous event marked its conclusion. The White House Office of Public Engagement and National Economic Council hosted a briefing with the USBC to delve into the transformative vision of Bidenomics—the President’s strategic plan to foster economic growth from the middle out and the bottom up, with a dedicated focus on expanding economic access and opportunity for Black communities. The meeting brought together over 80 influential leaders, and to their pleasant surprise, President Biden himself made an unexpected appearance to express his heartfelt appreciation for their ongoing partnership. During his address, President Biden celebrated the historic advancements in the nation’s economic direction, including record-breaking job creation, the lowest Black unemployment rate ever recorded, and the highest Black labor force participation rate since August 2008. This extraordinary gathering marked a pivotal moment in the relentless pursuit of economic prosperity and inclusivity for all Americans, especially within the Black community.

The 2023 USBC National Conference embodied empowerment and unity, creating a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among attendees. The event’s success was a testament to the resilience and innovation of Black businesses and their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic future.

For more information about the USBC National Conference visit https://www.usbcconference.com/.

###

About USBC

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership, and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.

The post USBC 2023 National Conference Soars to New Heights with Rev. Dr. Frederick Haynes, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Rev. Al Sharpton, Derrick Johnson, Congressman Steven Horsford, and a Surprise Visit from President Biden first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

It is with profound sorrow that we mourn the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Her legacy as an influential and forceful voice in Washington spans thirteen terms in the United States House of Representatives, where she tirelessly represented the 18th Congressional District of Texas in Houston.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee was not only a dedicated public servant but also a steadfast advocate for the rights and empowerment of Black America. Her impact on our community cannot be overstated; she championed causes that uplifted and protected marginalized communities, consistently advocating for justice, equality, and civil liberties for all.

Often regarded as the “Voice of Reason,” Congresswoman Jackson Lee stood firm in upholding the Constitutional rights of all people, embodying a spirit of resilience and determination that inspired countless individuals across the nation. Her leadership and unwavering commitment to public service leave an indelible mark on our nation’s history.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, and constituents during this difficult time. May her legacy continue to guide and inspire us in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

The post USBC Statement on the Passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

Emphasizing the significance of data transparency, it highlights its role in fostering equitable opportunities and addressing systemic biases. Lacking access to such data, minority-owned enterprises struggle to compete for contracts and access resources. The article underscores the importance of policy measures and corporate accountability in mitigating these disparities and promoting diversity and inclusion in the contracting process.

Offering valuable perspectives, it warrants consideration in our ongoing efforts to defend, amend, protect, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage you to read the full article for a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by minority-owned businesses and potential solutions to help bridge the equity gap.

The post USBC President & Bibi Hidalgo Author “Companies aren’t disclosing contracting data. It’s hurting minority-owned businesses” published by The Brookings Institution first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

 Ron Busby Sr., President and CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., released the following statement in addition to his testimony:

“The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship committee hearing at Bowie State University serves as a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to combat systemic racism in business. By shining a spotlight on the barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs, we propel vital conversations and demand actionable solutions to level the playing field and continue to march towards closing the black wealth gap.”

 At the hearing, Black business owners underscored the tangible impacts of discriminatory practices on their ventures, amplifying the imperative for legislative and policy interventions.

 Bowie State University, renowned as the oldest Historically Black College University in Maryland, served as the fitting backdrop for this consequential discussion. Recognizing its historical significance and commitment to fostering excellence within the Black community, the university provided a poignant setting to confront the challenges hindering Black entrepreneurs’ success.

###

About the U.S. Black Chambers 

The U.S. Black Chambers (USBC) is the voice of Black business owners and a top advocate for resources and policies that impact Black business owners.
To learn more, visit: usblackchambers.org

The post U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) Elevates the Voice of Black Business at Critical Senate Hearing on Racial Discrimination first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..

Ron Busby Sr., a renowned leader and authoritative voice in the realm of Black business and economic development, highlighted the significant contributions of Black entrepreneurs to the national economy and the critical need for supportive policies that ensure their success. “In order for there to be a great America, we have to have a great Black America, and in order to have a great Black America, we must have great Black businesses,” Busby stated, encapsulating the essence of his message to the gathered audience.

Under Busby’s leadership, the USBC has been at the forefront of advocating for economic policies that favor equitable business opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. His speech also tackled the substantial obstacles that DEI efforts are currently facing, stressing the importance of maintaining momentum in these initiatives to achieve true economic equality.

“The work of the USBC and the support of policymakers are pivotal in constructing a business environment where Black entrepreneurs can thrive and thereby reduce the wealth gap,” Busby added. “Every step we take toward economic equity is a step toward fulfilling America’s promise of prosperity for all its citizens.”

As a sought-after thought leader, Ron Busby Sr.’s insights are crucial in guiding the conversation on economic advancement for Black businesses, particularly in today’s socio-economic climate. His presence and participation in the Economic Opportunity Tour underscore the urgency and significance of supporting the Black business community as a fundamental component of the nation’s economic framework.

The post U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. President Ron Busby Sr. Champions Black Economic Progress at VP Harris’s Economic Opportunity Tour in Detroit first appeared on U.S. Black Chambers, Inc..