Nevada Black Chamber of Commerce took a step toward revitalizing the organization at Friday's Business and Networking Expo.
The Reno chamber, formed in 2006, failed to attain the 500 members and partners it had set as a goal that first year.
But it went quietly about pursuing other goals, such as mentoring youth and increasing their computer literacy by donating computers to a school through the Second Baptist Church of Reno.
Now, with a membership of about 25, the Chamber's Executive Vice President Mary-Ann Andrews says, "We're service- and program-oriented, not membership-driven." The new focus is on programs that economically empower black business owners.
But to do that, the chamber needs operating capital, says Andrews. "The focus now is on how to get funding." Chamber officers have met with Charles Schwab Bank to lay a foundation in order to apply for,
and get, grants.
Nevada Black Chamber President Vita Ozoude tapped Andrews for an officer role due to her work at Sage International Inc. as vice president business development and operations.
Chamber leaders also visited a successful black chamber in the Bay Area and returned with some good ideas, such as how to establish an incubator program. A black-oriented business telephone directory.
Educational forums such as how to develop a business plan. A mentoring program for teenagers. And yes, through academic success labs, to bring computer technology to young people.
But one goal hasn't changed a strong membership; a target of 1,000 is not unreasonable if the organization provides needed services, says Andrews. To learn what those are, the Business Expo surveyed participants on what they want to see in the community from a business perspective.
But the challenge to growth, she says, is overcoming peoples' perceptions. "Convincing people that we're serious. We have a strong commitment to making this work."
