Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Expands in Summer 2022  Chamber Builds Member Community and External Economic Partnerships  

The Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (NVBCC) announced exciting projects and partnerships  in summer 2022. A significant project recently launched is the Chamber’s new digital magazine, THRIVE. This  publication is dedicated to bringing the Chamber network timely and valuable business information that positions its  members for success. THRIVE empowers black-owned businesses with data, insights, and trends to support new ideas and  guide decisions. The magazine highlights member businesses; promotes networking opportunities; and gives members a  platform to showcase events, resources, and expertise. The first issue of THRIVE can be accessed here.  

Secondly, the NVBCC workshop series, Empowering Your GovCon Footprint, kicked off July 1 and creates an  educational foundation and support network for members and their businesses to enter the world of government  contracting. The workshops focused on how to find government contracting opportunities, matching your skillset to  available contracts, and utilizing tools at your disposal through the Freedom of Information Act. These workshops will be  offered again in person and virtually on August 5, September 9, October 7, November 4, and December 2, each at 1:00 a.m. Times subject to change. Information  and registration are available on the NVBCC website.  

Finally, the Chamber has participated in numerous economic development events in Northern Virginia during the  summer months. The NVBCC collaborated with the Arlington and Alexandria Chambers of Commerce to host Virginia  Governor Glenn Youngkin and Caren Merrick, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, for an open economic  discussion. Many Chamber members shared their economic experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically  building and developing their workforces and adjusting their practices to meet clients’ unique economic needs. NVBCC  also partnered with Fairfax and Arlington County Economic Development events, particularly in Fairfax County  supporting the opening of Ms. Jo’s Petite Sweets. This Arlington business is woman-owned, black-owned, and veteran owned, specializing in small-batch Southern inspired desserts with a French influence and hors d’oeuvres for private and  corporate catering. Upcoming black-owned businesses also drew attention at the Arlington County event as the region  continues to expand economically and the NVBCC grows its membership and influence.  

NVBCC Executive Director Sheila Dixon also attended the ceremonial signing of Virginia bills HB 884 and SB  195. Governor Glenn Youngkin signed into law these measures to expand access and lower the cost of health coverage for  small businesses in Virginia. Small businesses account for more than 90% of employers in the state. These laws went into  effect on July 1. Following the ceremony, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce announced the formation of the Virginia  Small Business Health Alliance. This alliance will bring together thousands of small businesses under one umbrella to  spread claims risk and lower administrative costs, resulting in savings for Virginia employees and their families.    

An important July event will kick off August’s Black Business Month with Summer Vibes at Jirani Coffee  House in Manassas, showcasing The Charles Cannon Group. The concert of jazz, soul, and R&B music begins at 7:30pm  on Saturday, July 30. Tickets can be purchased online through the NVBCC.

Media Contact: Tonya White- The Write Touch, LLC
Phone: 703.442.4472

‍