Unity as Key

ALIBI—The only way Black businesses can survive and thrive is when they work in cooperation instead of competition, said organizers of the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce Annual State Convention held recently.

Under the leadership of Larry Ivory, the Chamber’s president and CEO, the organization celebrated 25 years of empowering Black businesses in Illinois and beyond with a variety of workshops, one-on-one corporate matchmaking sessions, and informative panels. This year’s gathering was held in conjunction with the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

“The only way from poverty to prosperity is normally through entrepreneurship. If we strengthen Black businesses, we strengthen Black communities. We want to empower our people,” said Mr. Ivory.

Black businesses do much more than possibly create generational wealth for themselves. In many cases, Black-owned businesses address problems with systemic oppression and lack of access, such as the restaurant or coffee shop in a struggling neighborhood or convenience store showcasing Black-owned products.

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Additionally, Black businesses provide goods and services that reflect everyday needs and interests of Black consumers. They employ Black people and help the dollar circulate within the community before it trickles out.

The Chamber plays an important role in helping Black businesses in Illinois succeed through developing strategies to assist them in increasing their competitive ability and capacity. 

Roughly 400 businesses attended the three-day convention held in a hotel right off the Illinois River in Peoria, Ill. The convention’s first day included a one-on-one matchmaker session where businesses could pitch to various major corporations followed by panel discussions about operating globally during a pandemic.

Some 50 corporations showed up as matchmakers and sponsors including Comcast, People’s Gas, ComEd, Verizon, United, JPMorgan Chase, several major airlines and many more.

Fiserv, a multinational, financial technology service company awarded three $10,000 grants to deserving Black businesses that along with the money, included technical support and mentorship as well.


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