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PHOENIX — June 21, 2026 — The Black Chamber of Arizona capped a week of Juneteenth programming across the state with events spanning executive convenings, cultural celebrations, and new community partnerships, reinforcing the Chamber’s role as a connector across business, culture, and civic life. “Juneteenth calls us to remember the past while building the future,” said Dr. Velma Trayham, President and CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona. “This year’s programming demonstrated what is possible when culture, commerce, and community come together with intention. From Phoenix to Tempe to Tucson, we celebrated Black excellence while advancing visibility, opportunity, and economic momentum for entrepreneurs and the communities they serve.” The week began June 18 with the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Vision Forward: Leadership & Economic Impact Convening in Phoenix, drawing a full house of business, civic, and community leaders. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego delivered remarks, joined by Rob Taylor, Associate General Manager and Chief Public Affairs & Corporate Services Executive at SRP, and Tracy Lopes, Deputy Chief of Staff for Outreach and Engagement in the Office of Governor Katie Hobbs. Emceed by Daja Lee, founder of Finance Therapy Group and a former Chamber board member, the evening featured testimony from four Chamber member businesses on how the Chamber has supported their growth through contracting opportunities and capital connections. In her remarks, Dr. Trayham highlighted the growth of Black buying power in Arizona, from $6.6 billion in 2010 to $14.9 billion by 2021, according to the Selig Center for Economic Growth’s Multicultural Economy report. The convening was sponsored by SRP, Cox, and the Arizona Diamondbacks, with catering by Mrs. Martha’s Caribbean Kitchen, a Chamber member business. On June 19, the Chamber’s D-backs Black Excellence Night at Chase Field, presented with the Arizona Diamondbacks, put Black excellence on a major-league stage. The Diamondbacks recognized the Black Chamber of Arizona as Arizona’s premier organization advancing small business growth since 1995, and honored Dr. Trayham’s leadership in mentoring thousands of entrepreneurs and supporting the growth of more than 1,200 Arizona businesses. Dr. Trayham was invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch. In Tempe, the Chamber partnered with the City of Tempe for a Juneteenth Block Party Market & Info Booth at Centerpoint Plaza on Mill Avenue, and Dr. Trayham joined a panel moderated by Tempe Mayor Corey Woods on systems change and inclusive economic growth. In Tucson, the Chamber marked the public launch of a new partnership with The Dunbar Pavilion, a historic center for African American history and culture, bringing business resources, mentorship, and capital connections to one of Southern Arizona’s most concentrated small business communities. Executive Director Freda Marshall joined Dr. Trayham and Chamber board members Tondra Richardson and Christine Abdulla in marking the occasion. Together, this year’s programming reflected a broader strategy: using Juneteenth as both a moment of remembrance and a platform for business growth, regional engagement, and long-term economic opportunity. Get Involved None of this happens without partners willing to invest in Arizona’s small business community. The Black Chamber of Arizona is calling on public agencies, corporations, and individual supporters to join this work — through sponsorship, contracting opportunities, mentorship, board service, or membership. Dr. Trayham has personally mentored more than 8,000 entrepreneurs nationally, work that reflects the Chamber’s core pillars: access to capital, contracting readiness, and building a stronger pipeline of businesses that drive Arizona’s economy forward. Public and private partners interested in getting involved are invited to learn more at blackchamberaz.org. About the Black Chamber of Arizona The Black Chamber of Arizona is a statewide organization advancing inclusive economic opportunity through advocacy, connectivity, and strategic partnerships. Through business programming, public-private partnerships, and initiatives supporting underserved and underrepresented founders and professionals, the Chamber works to strengthen Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Media Contact: Black Chamber Press Department Info@blackchamberaz.com

Governor Katie Hobbs, Dr. Velma Trayham & Black Chamber of Arizona Members Held on December 17, 2025 at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Conference Center, the ‘Pinnacle Pathways Gala’ is the Black Chamber of Arizona’s signature annual fundraiser, supporting initiatives in youth development, small business growth, workforce readiness, and justice-impacted entrepreneurship. Honorary Co-Chairs: Dr. Sharon Smith & Tony Bell Honorees: Pinky Cole Hayes – Lifetime Achievement Award | Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Chad Mavkovsky – Innovation & Regional Impact Award | Bank of America Scott Vanderpool & Christine Abdullah Community Impact Award | Copper State Riding Club – Rising Star Honoree | 1st Step To Greatness, Arizona Filmmakers, Holy Hands Painters, Italian Smiles, Latha Restaurant & Bar and Look Better Naked Spa – Small Business Honorees Presenting Sponsors: Arizona Public Service & Arizona State University Emcees: Christel Bell, ABC15 & Ryan Garlington Entertainment: National Anthem performed by Tina Estes, Poetry Reading by Ryan Garlington, Keynote Address by Dr. Ken Harris, Live music performed by Ear Candy Band, programmatic musical selections from DJ Biz International, Pink Sky Photobooth & Simply Srtsy Luxury Art Experiences. Notable Moments: More than 500 guests celebrated the sold-out 27th Annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala. The event drew a national audience of elected officials, executives, and business leaders traveled from cities including Chicago, Detroit, as well as destinations across Nevada, California, Texas, and South Carolina, underscoring Arizona’s growing reputation as a center for inclusive economic development. The evening’s program featured high-profile voices, civic recognition, and a dynamic agenda that blended inspiration, insight, and celebration. The program highlighted the Chamber’s expanding influence as well as a broader perspective on entrepreneurship and economic empowerment throughout the state of Arizona. A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Arizona Impact Center, set to open in Spring 2026. The Center is a 5,400-square-foot collaborative hub located in a historic Frank Lloyd Wright–designed building in downtown Phoenix. The state-of-the-art space will bring together entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and community leaders to foster innovation, strengthen networks, and support long-term wealth creation. Entertainment was a key part of the evening, beginning with a stirring rendition of the national anthem and continuing with a live musical performance that energized the audience and elevated the celebratory atmosphere. The combination of programming and entertainment created a memorable experience for attendees. Photos courtesy of the Black Chamber of Arizona Co-chairs Dr. Sharon Smith & Tony Bell Ryan Garlington, Honoree Pinky Coles Hayes & Brittany Erin Bachus Honoree TJ Stevenson Ryan Garlington, Brittany Erin Bachus with Honorees Scott Vanderpool (Bank of America President) & Christine Abdullah pose for a picture after Scott received the Community Impact Award Honoree Chad Makovsky, City of Phoenix Aviation Dr. Ken L. Harris Jerry Weiers Marchelle Franklin & Dr. Velma Trayham Matt Mills Christel Bell

Weekly, In-Person Series Spotlights Employer Firms Driving Job Creation, Growth and Legacy Across Arizona Source: Black Chamber of Arizona   |  Tue, 03 Feb 2026, 08:00:41 EST   𝕏   PHOENIX, Ariz., Feb. 3, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Black Chamber of Arizona announced today the launch of Black History in Business: Fireside Chats Across Arizona, a four-part, in-person Black History Month business series held every Thursday in February from 7–9 p.m. The weekly events will spotlight Black-owned businesses and employer firms, highlighting their role in job creation, economic growth and community legacy across the state. Image caption: Black Chamber of Arizona Launches Black History Month Business Series. Designed for entrepreneurs, executives, creatives and professionals, the series convenes at Black-owned businesses and focuses on candid dialogue around growth, resilience, collaboration and legacy. Each session features business leaders sharing real-world insights, relationship-driven networking opportunities and practical takeaways for attendees looking to start, grow or scale their ventures. “Black history is not just something we honor, it’s something we are actively building,” said Dr. Velma Trayham, President and CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona. “This series is about celebrating excellence in real time, learning directly from leaders who are doing the work and ensuring that our businesses are not only surviving, but scaling, collaborating and leaving a lasting legacy.” Each session is organized around a distinct theme and includes a new lineup of business leaders and innovators: FEBRUARY 5 – LEADERSHIP, PREPAREDNESS AND VISION (WEEK 1) A candid discussion on leadership, preparation and building businesses with longevity in mind. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-history-month-business-series-week-1-tickets-1981952335789 FEBRUARY 12 – SCALING WITH INTENTION: GROWTH, BRAND AND INFLUENCE (WEEK 2) A “Content Lab”–style evening focused on how Black-owned businesses scale with purpose while maintaining brand integrity, visibility and operational excellence. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-history-month-business-series-week-2-tickets-1981949290681 FEBRUARY 19 – COMMUNITY, CAPITAL AND COLLABORATION (WEEK 3) A focus on relationships, access to capital and shared economic impact, exploring how collaboration and ecosystem-building fuel sustainable growth. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-history-month-business-series-week-3-tickets-1981950102108 FEBRUARY 26 – LEGACY, LEADERSHIP AND THE FUTURE OF BLACK BUSINESS (WEEK 4) A forward-looking conversation centered on legacy, leadership and the future of Black enterprise in Arizona and beyond, examining how today’s decisions shape opportunity for the next generation. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-history-month-business-series-week-4-tickets-1981954538377 Events are free for Black Chamber of Arizona members, with non-members encouraged to attend and consider membership as a pathway to greater connection, visibility and support within Arizona’s small business ecosystem. In addition to the Black History Month series, the Black Chamber of Arizona offers year-round sponsorship opportunities for corporations, institutions and philanthropic partners seeking to align with diverse business growth, supplier diversity and inclusive economic development. Sponsorships provide brand visibility, access to a growing network of small businesses and opportunities to support programs that drive measurable business impact. To reserve a seat, learn more about sponsorship or explore partnership opportunities, visit blackchamberaz.org/events/ or email info@blackchamberaz.com. ABOUT THE BLACK CHAMBER OF ARIZONA Founded in 1995, the Black Chamber of Arizona advocates for economic growth and entrepreneurship across the state. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy and innovative programming, the Chamber supports small and underserved businesses in driving wealth creation, job growth and community advancement. The organization serves as a hub for connection between entrepreneurs, corporate partners and community stakeholders committed to building a more inclusive and prosperous Arizona. For more information, visit https://blackchamberaz.org/.

The Black Chamber Gala recently celebrated its 27th annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala, held at the Renaissance Hotel — announcing the Arizona Impact Center. (The Black Chamber of Arizona/Submitted) Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Copy article link Save The Black Chamber of Arizona recently announced the Arizona Impact Center — a 5,400 square-foot hub for business innovation and economic empowerment, scheduled to open in the spring of 2026. The organization unveiled the plan at its 27th Anniversary Pinnacle Pathways Gala, held at the Renaissance Hotel. “These businesses exemplify innovation, perseverance and community impact,” Black Chamber President and CEO Dr. Velma Trayham said in a statement. “Their success stories reflect the Chamber’s mission to create pathways for generational wealth and inclusive growth across Arizona.” The Arizona Impact Center will be located in Downtown Phoenix, housed in a historic building, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and owned by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The space will serve as a collaborative space for entrepreneurs, corporate partners and community leaders with the purpose of generating generational wealth. The major project was unveiled along with various rewards, recognitions and accomplishments of the Black Chamber’s partners, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Bank of America. Aviation Director Chad Makovsky accepted the Innovation & Regional Impact Award and Bank of America President Scott Vanderpool received the Community Impact Award. The Black Chamber of Arizona recognized both organizations for supporting small business and fostering inclusive economic development across the state. Other awardees included TJ Stevenson and Copperstate Riding Club as recipients of the Rising Star award, as well as various Small Business Impact Honorees — Latha Restaurant and Bar, Look Better Naked Spa, First Step to Greatness, Arizona Filmmakers, Italian Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry and Holy Hands Painter. Governor Katie Hobbs was among over 500 attendees at the gala — which included other elected officials, such as Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers. (The Black Chamber of Arizona/Submitted) The purpose of the Pinnacle Pathways Gala, according to the chamber’s website, is to celebrate impact and excellence. As the organization’s signature fundraiser, the event also supports youth development programs, small business expansion, workforce readiness, and justice-impacted entrepreneurship — individuals with past involvement in the criminal justice system looking to start and grow their own businesses. The event brings together hundreds of guests annually, with this year’s gala seeing 500 attendees — including Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. Weiers and Hobbs presented official proclamations to the Black Chamber and the governor additionally headlined the program and delivered the featured address alongside remarks from Trayham and the mayor. In addition to Arizona’s local leaders, the gala welcomed elected officials and business leaders from Chicago, Detroit, Nevada, California, Texas and South Carolina. The evening’s program was emceed by The Bachus Firm, LLC Managing Attorney Brittany Erin Bachus and Ryan Garlington — senior manager of customer success at Rapidscale and Cox Communications. Other voices included keynote speaker National Business League President and CEO Ken L. Harris, who spoke about economic empowerment from a national perspective. Honorary Co-Chairs Dr. Sharon Smith of ASU and Tony Bell of SRP, as well as Slutty Vegan founder “Pinky” Cole Hays also spoke. Governor Katie Hobbs was among over 500 attendees at the gala — which included other elected officials, such as Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers. (The Black Chamber of Arizona/Submitted) The evening of entertainment was accompanied by local artist Tina Estes performing the national anthem, followed by a performance by Ear Candy — a band based in Phoenix that plays original songs and covers across r&b, jazz, neo soul, reggae, pop and blues. As announced at the event, the next Pinnacle Pathways Gala will be hosted by the city of Chandler on Dec. 12, 2026 — keeping the chamber’s tradition of celebrating resilience, regional impact and entrepreneurial excellence for the following year.

The Black Chamber of Arizona (BCAZ) is not just experiencing growth in Arizona but also helping to shape the future of business nationwide. BCAZ has become a model for inclusive growth as it has begun to assist companies in other states. Dr. Velma Trayham, President and CEO of the Black Chamber of Arizona, joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss the report in more detail and what it means for Arizona’s future economy. The Chamber’s first-ever Impact Report highlights why its approach is gaining national traction, as evidenced by $5 million in capital secured for entrepreneurs, a $1.5 million aggregate increase in member sales, the launch or scaling of over 1,200 businesses, the creation of over 500 jobs, 15,000+ hours of mentorship and technical assistance delivered. Dr. Trayham said BCAZ has seen businesses pop up in various states including but not limited to Oklahoma, Arkansas and California. Dr. Trayham went on to emphasize why Arizona is such an attractive place to do business. “It is December, and the weather is absolutely beautiful,” Dr. Trayham said, adding Arizona is also a hub for growth in many industries including banking, technology, manufacturing and health care. She said Arizona has a booming economy and people are moving here at a fast pace. “The question is though, are we retaining people here?” Dr. Trayham asked. While she is not a native Arizonan, Dr. Trayham has learned through her five years living here that “people come and they go when they don’t feel like there is community.” So part of her initiative is developing the culture and resources for businesses to stay in our state. Additionally, on December 13, 2025, BCAZ will celebrate this legacy of impact at its 27th Annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala in Glendale, Arizona. This year’s theme, “Resilience and Regional Impact,” reflects the Chamber’s commitment to statewide growth and its expanding national footprint. This marks the first economic Impact Report in the 27-year history of the Black Chamber of Arizona. Dr. Trayham emphasized the importance of understanding the problems we are addressing to effectively solve them, adding Arizona’s business sector is experiencing rapid growth, encompassing not only Black-owned businesses but also diverse businesses across the state. IN THIS SEGMENT: Dr. Velma Trayham, President and CEO, Black Chamber of Arizona ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: Arizona medical practice offers new approach to aid Alzheimer’s patients Prop 123: Mismanagement of funds leads to Arizona losing billions SPOTLIGHT HOPES FOR AMERICA’S FUTURE: ARIZONA PBS STAFF REFLECT ON AMERICA’S NEXT 250 YEARS MY FAVORITE HERO AIRS JULY 8 The American Southwest VIEW THE LATEST ‘CANDIDATES IN CONVERSATION’

Topic: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / January 18, 2024 / Presented by title sponsor JPMorgan Chase & Co., ImpactAZ 2025, a multi-year supplier-diversity accelerator that provides minority entrepreneurs with technical assistance, mentoring, public and private business exchange opportunities, and access to capital to increase readiness for contracting opportunities, celebrated the graduates of its class of 2023 on January 16, 2024. With its fundamental objective to decrease the racial wealth gap, using entrepreneurship as an engine, the significance of the ImpactAZ graduation occurring the day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, particularly in Arizona, is a testament to his dream being realized. Hosted at the Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) main facility, participants of the Millionaire Mastermind Academy ImpactAZ program received certificates commemorating the successful completion of the groundbreaking 9-month cohort. Emceed by CDE® DEI Transformation Doctor Jacque Starks, the inaugural commencement ceremony, celebrating African American entrepreneurs representing 35 businesses, was an inspiring culmination of Arizona’s largest supplier-diversity accelerator. Guests were honored to be supported and joined by Jeff Guldner, CEO, [Arizona Public Service Co. (APS)], Vaughn Lucas, National Executive Director, [JPMorgan Chase & Co.], Monica Villalobos, President & CEO, [Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce], Robin Reed, CEO, [Black Chamber of Arizona], Scott Vanderpool, President, [Bank of America Pheonix], Shamia Lodge, Director of Community Engagement, [Aventiv], David Teitelbaum, District Sales Manager, [Office Depot], Catherine Arvizu, Vice President, [Commercial Lending Commerce Bank of Arizona], Ashley Kelly, Vice President [JPMorgan Chase & Co.], Kristen Stephenson, SVP, Research & Analytics, [GPEC], Josh Utterback, Economic Development Program Director, [City of Scottsdale], Jackie Johnson, Diversity Director, [City of Scottsdale], Christine Abdullah, SVP, Market Leader, [Bank of America] and numerous others. Representatives from esteemed corporations, municipalities, and community collaborators enjoyed inspiring presentations by ImpactAZ 2025 Creator and Millionaire Mastermind Academy CEO Dr. Velma Trayham, JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s Vaughn Lucas, CEO of the State of Black Arizona; Teniqua Broughton, Jeff Guldner, Shamia Lodge, Robin Reed, and Christine Abdullah. Vocalist Tina Estes performed a touching rendition of “This Girl/Boy is On Fire” to honor the graduates. As part of its Elevate Together® initiative, Office Depot presented $30,000 in grants to ImpactAZ standouts. Additionally, community leaders of the momentous occasion were privy to key announcements, including: ImpactAZ’s commitment to expand its service to the justice-impacted community. Formally opening the application process for its 2024 cohort. Notable year-one success metrics: $2M in Secured Contracts 40% Expanded Business Operations $300,000 Capital Funded 22 Public and Private Partnerships 80% of Cohort Participants Registered as Diverse Suppliers 22% Hired New Staff To sponsor or support IMPACTAZ 2025, visit www.impactaz2025.com/donate. To become a participant in the highly lauded supplier-diversity accelerator, visit www.impactaz2025.com to apply. MORE ABOUT IMPACTAZ 2025 The solutions-driven accelerator is a program of the non-profit Millionaire Mastermind Academy, which provides technical assistance for the initiative. Collaborators include the Black Chamber of Arizona and the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The accelerator enjoys broad corporate and community support led by JPMorgan Chase & Co. Bank of America, Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Via West Group, American Landmark Apartments, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the City of Scottsdale, Commerce Bank AZ, SCORE, and the AIANNH Project NABEDC, operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, are additional sponsors.