Philadelphia is gearing up for an unprecedented influx of global attention in 2026, as the city prepares to host the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations. Amidst this anticipation, the African American Chamber of Commerce for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware (AACC) is proactively working to empower its members, ensuring they are well-positioned to capitalize on the upcoming surge of visitors and foster sustainable economic development.
Despite the expiration of the small business tax exemption, Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration, with approval from the Philadelphia City Council, has successfully reduced the overall business tax burden, creating a more favorable environment for entrepreneurship. This fiscal adjustment is crucial as local businesses, particularly those led by Black professionals, navigate complex economic situations and seek opportunities for growth.
To directly engage with and support local enterprises, the tri-state African American Chamber of Commerce embarked on an influential multi-city tour. Kicking off in Harrisburg, the tour included vital stops in Camden, Wilmington, and Philadelphia, providing an essential platform for the chamber to connect directly with its diverse membership across the region and address their specific needs.
Many Black professionals face unique challenges, whether as federal government contractors, subcontractors, or business owners importing products. Chamber officials emphasize that while these hurdles exist, the strategy is to pivot towards available opportunities. Leaders like CEO Regina Hairston and board member James Sanders, both advisors on Mayor Parker’s business roundtables, are advocating for sustained support for historically disadvantaged businesses.
Local municipalities continue to prioritize small businesses and contracting with historically disadvantaged enterprises, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships. Dr. Erica Patterson, Pennsylvania’s Deputy Secretary for Diversity, Inclusion, and Small Business Opportunities, shared insights during the tour on state initiatives designed to lower barriers to entry for these businesses. This collaborative approach between the AACC and governmental bodies is vital for shaping supportive policy.
Recognizing that many member companies operate as sole proprietorships without employees, the AACC is innovating with a “back office” initiative. This crucial service will provide members with outsourced professional support in areas like accounting, legal counsel, human resources, and marketing, enabling them to expand and eventually hire internally. This robust small business support system aims to equip entrepreneurs to thrive in a competitive economic landscape.
The chamber’s leadership highlights the optimism prevalent among its members, who are actively preparing for engagement with the city of Philadelphia for 2026 events and strategizing around designated celebration sites. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that Black businesses are integral to the region’s economic growth, emphasizing that collective participation is key to a prosperous future for all. This strategic vision positions Philadelphia for inclusive economic development.
As a testament to these ongoing efforts, the African-American Chamber of Commerce for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware is also hosting its inaugural National Black Business Month Expo inside the Comcast Spectacor, further solidifying its commitment to fostering robust tri-state business connections and supporting entrepreneurship within the community.
