Black Chamber of Arizona releases first impact report

      “This impact report is a path forward,” said Velma Trayham, president of the Black Chamber of Arizona. (Submitted Photos/DigitalFreePress)

Staff reports | Business & Commerce

The Black Chamber of Arizona has released its first impact report, highlighting expanded programming and measurable outcomes in its efforts to support Black-owned businesses and close the racial wealth gap in Arizona, according to a press release.

Key milestones from the report include:

•$5 million in capital secured for entrepreneurs

•$1.5 million aggregate increase in member sales

•More than 1,200 businesses launched or scaled

•Over 500 jobs created

More than 15,000 hours of mentorship and technical assistance delivered

“This impact report is a path forward,” said Velma Trayham, president of the Black Chamber of Arizona. “We’re focused on building, closing the racial wealth gap, creating more employer firms and helping small businessesreach the finish line.”

The report also outlines the chamber’s flagship programs:

•Impact AZ: The state’s largest Black business accelerator, focused on training for high-value contracts and procurement

•Capital Connect: A direct pipeline to banking, grants and investment for new and existing businesses

•Justice Impacted Entrepreneurs: Year-round mentorship and support for returning citizens

•Youth Career & Leadership Summit: Career, entrepreneurship and leadership training for young people

The full impact report is available through the Black Chamber of Arizona’s website.

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