TALK OF GREENWOOD
Dr. Jerry Goodwin
Ron Busby Sr. is president and CEO of the U. S. Black Chambers Inc. Photo Provided
Greenwood Women’s Business Center Representative Attended
The U. S. Black Chambers Inc. (USBC) and over 75 national leaders from the organization visited the White House for a “State of Black Business” briefing. The event was a highlight of the USBC National Conference and 15th Anniversary Celebration, July 17-20.
The White House Office of Public Engagement hosted the meeting. Donna Jackson, program director of the Greenwood Women’s Business Center, attended the meeting.
“We met with White House officials from various federal agencies. The Biden Administration representatives shared their unwavering commitment to advancing racial equity and supporting the Black business community,” said Jackson.
Key topics covered during the briefing included the following:
Advancing Racial Equity: Senior officials outlined the Administration’s ongoing efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote inclusivity within the economic landscape.
Support for Black Businesses: The discussion emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where Black-owned businesses can thrive, highlighting initiatives aimed at providing increased access to capital, resources, and opportunities.
Policy Updates: Attendees were briefed on the latest policies and programs designed to support minority-owned enterprises, ensuring they are equipped to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.
Ron Busby Sr., president and CEO of the U. S. Black Chambers Inc., said the briefing underscored the vital role Black businesses play in the economy and the importance of government collaborations in driving meaningful change.
“We are encouraged by the Administration’s dedication to fostering an inclusive economic environment where Black businesses can flourish,” said Busby.
White House officials and other government representatives attending the meeting were Taylor Wright, senior advisor for Public Engagement; Steve Benjamin, assistant to the President, senior advisor to the President and director of Public Engagement; Neera Tanden, advisor to Domestic Policy to the President; Kylie Patterson, deputy assistant to the President; Jared Bernstein, chair of the Council of Economic Advisers; Jackie Robinson-Burnette, associate administrator, Office of Government Contracting & Business Development, U.S. Small Business Administration; Janis Bowdler, counselor to the Secretary (Racial Equity), U.S. Department of Treasury; and Eric Morrissette, acting undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce.
Greenwood Women’s Business Center
The Greenwood Women’s Business Center supports diverse women entrepreneurs in their journey across all business life cycles – from start-up to maturity – with information, tools, and resources designed to escalate their visions. GBC provides technical assistance, shared services, and counseling services (in person and virtually) to help women business owners navigate the myriad of opportunities available that enable their firms to grow, hire employees, and be leaders in their communities. This center is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. For more information, see https://usblackchambers.org/greenwoodwbc/.
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership, and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at https://usblackchambers.org/.
