African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, and DE

Member Spotlight: Gray Space Interiors

Our Member Spotlight shines on Gray Space Interiors, the award-winning, certified Minority Business Enterprise that has transformed over 250 homes and commercial spaces since 2016! Named Best Design Firm of Montgomery County and featured on HGTV and in Architectural Digest, Gray Space Interiors is not your average design firm.

From Philadelphia to LA, their team delivers stunning, client-centered environments that balance beauty, function, and individuality. As an alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program and a proud AACC member, Gray Space Interiors continues to raise the bar in design and in business. Explore their work at grayspaceinteriors.com!

WANT TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS FROM THEFT? START WITH THESE THREE CORE STEPS.

Running a business is hard enough. Do not let internal fraud or scams take you out. The truth is, financial theft is one of the biggest threats to small business growth. But with the right systems in place, you can stop it before it starts.

Here are three core steps to get started:
• Separate financial duties
• Require vacations for financial staff
• Review your statements every month

source: Philadelphia Inquirer https://www.inquirer.com/business/small-business/small-business-theft-employees-fraud-20250722.html

The State of the AACC: Philadelphia Stop | July 30, 2025

Philadelphia, it’s your turn! Join the African American Chamber of Commerce for the next stop in our Economic Outlook Tour on July 30th, featuring Tiffanie Stanard, CEO and Founder of Stimulus, Inc. As an award-winning entrepreneur, Tiffanie leads a nationally recognized, venture-backed AI platform that's transforming B2B relationships and accelerating supplier inclusion. Hear directly from this game-changer at the intersection of tech, equity, and procurement about how she's reshaping supplier ecosystems and what it means for our region's business growth.

Register now at aachamber.com for this vital conversation at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia! https://aachamber.com/2025-state-of-the-aacc/

Our Member Spotlight shines on Romona Mercer, the founder and heart behind Aunt Verlea's Pound Cake Experience !

What began in her family kitchen has blossomed into a delicious success story, recently featured on FOX29, with handcrafted pound cakes made from scratch using time-honored recipes. Each slice reflects Romona's commitment to quality, tradition, and entrepreneurship, proving that preserving heritage and growing a business can truly go hand in hand.

Romona joined the AACC to expand her network, strengthen her impact, and inspire others to follow their dreams, one delicious slice at a time. Explore her amazing creations at https://www.auntverleas.com/ and support Black-owned businesses by joining the AACC at aachamber.com!

The State of the AACC Tour: Harrisburg Sets a Bold Example

The State of the AACC Tour is making a powerful stop in Harrisburg on July 23! Join us to hear from Secretary Reggie McNeil, the first African American to hold his cabinet position in the commonwealth’s history. With a career dedicated to advancing equity and operational excellence, Secretary McNeil is setting new standards for impact across Pennsylvania's procurement and capital projects.

This is your chance to connect with one of the region’s most influential changemakers and help shape the future of business. Register online to secure your spot at aachamber.com. https://aachamber.com/2025-state-of-the-aacc/

The State of the AACC Tour: Harrisburg Sets the Stage!

Join us on July 23rd as the African American Chamber of Commerce’s Four-City Economic Outlook Tour stops in Harrisburg, featuring trailblazing Pennsylvania House Speaker Rep. Joanna McClinton. As the first woman and first African American Speaker in the nation’s oldest legislature, Speaker McClinton embodies public service and forward-thinking leadership.

This event at Pennsylvania Capitol Hill is your chance to hear her insights on economic opportunity and regional growth, and to connect with influential changemakers. Secure your spot at aachamber.com to be part of shaping the future of Black business in our region! https://aachamber.com/2025-state-of-the-aacc/

Capital That Builds Legacy: DELPP Supports Black-Owned Business Growth!

Access to capital is crucial for business longevity, and the Delaware Loan Participation Program (DELPP) is empowering small and minority-owned businesses with improved funding access and financial resilience. Through DELPP, businesses can partner with local banks to secure the resources needed to scale, innovate, and build generational impact across communities.

At the African American Chamber of Commerce for PA, NJ & DE, we are dedicated to creating pathways that turn ambition into action, ensuring Black-owned businesses have the tools to compete and thrive. Join us at aachamber.com to support these vital businesses and drive lasting change!

Register today: https://business.delaware.gov/state-small-business-credit-initiative-ssbci/

Flight Plan Filed: Join the AACC Tour in a City Near You

The State of the AACC Tour is cleared for takeoff, and Camden is on the map as we chart a new course for Black business leadership and regional economic growth. This is more than just a tour stop; it's your runway to stronger networks, deeper partnerships, and new opportunities. Meet our new Board, hear our future strategy, and build alliances that move your business forward.

Don't stay grounded join us in Camden or your nearest city stop to become part of the region's most powerful Black business network! Sign up at aachamber.com/2025-state-of-the-aacc/.

From Vision to Scale: Fueling the Future of Black Women-Owned Businesses!

Black women-owned businesses are powerful economic drivers, and accessing capital, tailored resources, and strategic guidance are crucial for their growth. The SBA Women's Business Centers offer specialized support to help these entrepreneurs build strong foundations, navigate procurement, and connect with vital networks.

Apply today: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/womens-business-centers

At the African American Chamber of Commerce for PA, NJ & DE, we advocate for policies and partnerships that ensure their success, focusing on real impact beyond just visibility. Join us at aachamber.com to support these vital businesses and drive lasting change!

Black History 365: Robert L. Johnson, a true legend!

He made history as the first Black billionaire, transforming media with Black Entertainment Television (BET). Starting with just a $15K loan, his vision built an empire that reshaped how America experienced Black culture. Johnson's story is powerful. It's about building power, visibility, and equity where none existed.

Join the AACC at aachamber.com to honor visionaries like him and drive economic impact all year round!

Your Vote Builds Power: Support AACC Members in Metro Philly’s Best 2025

Voting is now open for Metro Philly's Best 2025, and our AACC members are in the running! Cast your vote daily through August 8th to boost their visibility and impact across the region.

This isn't just about a title; it's about market credibility and economic strength for Black-owned businesses. Visit metrophillysbest.com/voting and make your voice heard!