A ribbon cutting ceremony at Start-up Sioux Falls has celebrated the creation of the first South Dakota Black Chamber of Commerce.
South Dakota is recognized by national organizations as a business-friendly state. Now the South Dakota Black Chamber of Commerce, or SDBCC, aims to continue this growth by streamlining the common issues facing Black business owners. The chamber offers networking opportunities, entrepreneurial training, and help accessing capital.
Lenn Patterson George, president of SDBCC, spoke at the event about the importance of the moment.
“The establishment of the South Dakota Black Chamber of Commerce is more than just a mere event. It is a commitment to change, progress, and inclusivity," Patterson George said. "We come together with a shared vision. To leverage the incredible wealth within our Black communities, and channel it towards the betterment of South Dakota as a whole.”
The new chamber is generating national support. Charles DeBow is the President of the National Black Chamber of Commerce. He was on hand to present the new chamber with its certificate of membership.
“Today marks a historic moment as we gather here for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the South Dakota Black Chamber of Commerce. It is with immense pride and a sense of purpose that I stand before you as the President of the National Black Chamber of Commerce," he said. "Witnessing the birth of a new chapter that will serve as a catalyst for change in the landscape of black business within the state of South Dakota.”
Before cutting a black ribbon to acknowledge the launch of the new chamber, Patterson George introduced the team behind SDBCC. She also thanked DeBow for the National Chamber’s support.
“Let us move forward with determination, unity, and a shared commitment to building a South Dakota where opportunities are balanced. And where the success of one, is the success of all,” said Patterson George.
Many local minority business owners were in attendance to show their support as well as representatives from the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.
