The recent invitation in July, extended to the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (SCBCC) Board of Directors to the White House was a significant event, highlighting the importance of black businesses in America. Alongside other black chamber leaders from across the nation, the SCBCC representatives were welcomed by White House staff. The event commenced with opening remarks by Steve Benjamin, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. Additionally, Ron Busby Sr., Founder, President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chamber, Inc. (USBC), provided a comprehensive overview of the collaborative efforts between the USBC and the White House administration to support black-owned businesses.

 

Despite a delay in flights, which necessitated a virtual address, Neera Tanden, Assistant to the President and Domestic Policy Advisor, underscored the progress and achievements of black-owned businesses across America. Her remarks highlighted the ongoing commitment of the current administration to fostering an inclusive economic environment where black businesses can thrive.

 

Victoria Jones, the Founder, President & CEO of the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to attend and actively participate in the discussion at the White House. She noted that bringing her Chamber’s leadership to such a pivotal conversation was not only an honor but also a source of inspiration. Jones is enthusiastic about continuing her work with the USBC and the White House on various initiatives aimed at advancing black business, demonstrating a committed and forward-thinking approach to ensuring the growth and success of black-owned enterprises.

 

Additional remarks included from:

• Kylie Patterson, Deputy Assistant to the President for Racial Justice and Equity, White House Domestic Policy Council

• Jared Bernstein, Chair, U.S. Council of Economic Advisors

• Jackie Robinson-Burnette, Associate Administrator, Office of Government Contracting and Business Development, U.S. Small Business Administration

• Janis Bowdler, Counselor for Racial Equity, U.S. Department of Treasury

• Eric Morrissette, Acting Under Secretary, Minority Business Development Agency

• Charles O’Neal, Board Chair, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.

 

Last year, the SCBCC collaborated with the White House Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD) to facilitate connections with multiple Black Chambers nationwide. ONCD  aimed to organize regional workshops focusing on uniting operational teams within the space industry. These workshops served as a forum for industry professionals to exchange perspectives on the utilization of existing space-related policies in their daily practices and to identify potential challenges in their implementation.

 

The Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (SCBCC) serves as the principal advocate and preeminent leader in fostering economic success for businesses and organizations on the Space Coast through collaboration.