New chamber of commerce focuses on minority businesses

The newly formed group focuses on helping minority businesses succeed and grow.

The newly formed Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce (DBCC) will provide resources for minority owned small businesses designed to help them grow.

Chairman of the DBCC Clayton Hammond says the chamber is especially focused on helping minority businesses apply for state and federal contracts.  “If you’ve seen the statistics from a couple years ago, Delaware’s supplier diversity was virtually nonexistent.”  The group hosts a series of monthly conference calls focused on how members can successfully receive federal contracts.

The chamber is also working with Lt. Governor Matt Denn’s office to help minority businesses apply for stimulus funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  “We’re working within the public sector, private sector and non-profit sector to really increase the opportunities for that,” Hammond says.

The chamber will also hold networking events, training sessions, and specialized education seminars for member businesses.  Despite the name, Hammond says the Black Chamber is not only for black owned businesses.  “Our membership is open to any individual who is interested in growing their business, and any organization who’s interested in supporting black economic development and empowerment.”