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          08/14/2025

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          Skills for the Future: How to Upskill Early Talent for Success

          Join Boston’s leading educators and industry experts to explore career-aligned high school programs, in-demand workplace skills, and innovative school partnerships driving student success

          07/17/2025

          9:00am - 11:00am

          Omni Boston Hotel Seaport

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          In this highly interactive workshop with Strategic Career & Leadership Coach Carole-Ann Penney, you’ll define your professional identity and develop strategies to confidently navigate workplace dynamics.

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          BIMA

          BIMA (the Boston Interactive Media Association) serves a vibrant community of like-minded professionals from agencies, brands, publishers, and ad-tech companies with business interests in the New England market.

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          Women’s Network

          For over 30 years, the Chamber’s Women’s Network has connected female professionals of all background and career levels. Today, our Women’s Network is the largest in New England, strengthening the professional networks of women each year.

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          Massachusetts Apprentice Network

          The Massachusetts Apprentice Network convenes employers, training providers, and talent sources interested in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs in occupations across industries and statewide in fields such as tech, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and more.

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          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

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Boston Chamber
  • Events
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          • New Chamber Event Series
        • ...
          Pacesetters
          Doing Business with Mass General Brigham

          Join us for our installment of the Pacesetters Doing Business series featuring Mass General Brigham on August 7, 2025.

          08/07/2025

          1:00pm - 2:00pm

          Virtual

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          BIMA
          2025 BIMA Summer Sizzler

          The BIMA Summer Sizzler is a chance to network with your digital media industry peers from the agency, publisher, and adtech community!

          08/14/2025

          6:00pm - 9:00pm

          Fenway Park

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Talent
          Skills for the Future: How to Upskill Early Talent for Success

          Join Boston’s leading educators and industry experts to explore career-aligned high school programs, in-demand workplace skills, and innovative school partnerships driving student success

          07/17/2025

          9:00am - 11:00am

          Omni Boston Hotel Seaport

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Learning & Development
        • Learning & Development

          • Overview
          • Call for Nominations
          • Insights
        • Transformational DEI Certificate

          This program is in redevelopment. Click this page for DEI resources.

          Read More
          Women’s Leadership Program

          Our Women’s Leadership Program enables you to take your leadership to the next level by arming you with the most in-demand leadership toolkit.

          Read More
          Boston’s Future Leaders

          Our Boston’s Future Leaders (BFL) program provides emerging leaders with a socially conscious and civically engaged leadership toolkit, as well as the opportunity to apply their knowledge through experiential assignments.

          Read More
          Authentic Professionalism for Early Career Professionals

          In this highly interactive workshop with Strategic Career & Leadership Coach Carole-Ann Penney, you’ll define your professional identity and develop strategies to confidently navigate workplace dynamics.

          Read More
  • Economic Inclusion
        • Economic Inclusion

          • Overview
          • Pacesetters
          • Resources
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          City Awake

          City Awake empowers young professionals in a variety of ways that encourages these rising leaders to stay invested in the region’s future success.

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Economic Inclusion
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          arrow-go
          Read More
        • ...
          Small Business
          Small Business

          Small businesses are the backbone of the Boston economy. Learn more about the resources available through the Chamber.

          arrow-go
          Read More
  • Policy & Impact
        • Policy & Impact

          • Overview
          • Leadership Councils
          • Amicus Advisory Board
        • GET INVOLVED IN OUR POLICY FOCUS AREAS

          Business Climate
          Read More
          Climate & Energy
          Read More
          Health Care
          Read More
          Housing & Development
          Read More
          Talent
          Read More
          Transportation
          Read More
  • Our Networks
        • GBCC’s Networks

          • Overview
        • OUR NETWORKS

          Small Business

          Small businesses are the backbone of the Boston economy. Learn more about the resources available through the Chamber.

          Read More
          City Awake

          City Awake empowers young professionals in a variety of ways that encourages these rising leaders to stay invested in the region’s future success.

          Read More
          BIMA

          BIMA (the Boston Interactive Media Association) serves a vibrant community of like-minded professionals from agencies, brands, publishers, and ad-tech companies with business interests in the New England market.

          Read More
          Women’s Network

          For over 30 years, the Chamber’s Women’s Network has connected female professionals of all background and career levels. Today, our Women’s Network is the largest in New England, strengthening the professional networks of women each year.

          Read More
          Massachusetts Apprentice Network

          The Massachusetts Apprentice Network convenes employers, training providers, and talent sources interested in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs in occupations across industries and statewide in fields such as tech, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and more.

          Read More
          Pacesetters

          We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).

          Read More
  • Membership
        • Membership

          • Overview
          • Membership Benefits
          • Membership Levels
          • Member Stories
          • Request a Meeting
          • Join Today
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        • About Us
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          Explore our mission and values to better understand how we are leading the business community forward.

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          Not sure if you’re a member?

          Our member directory is your resource to discover, connect, and engage with Boston’s businesses from every industry and sector.

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Economic Empowerment: Strengthening Communities Through Black-Owned Businesses

February 16, 2024 Sherline Heriveaux, Senior Marketing Manager, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

Black history is an integral part of American history. February is dedicated to commemorating the richness of African-American culture and its undeniable impact on our country, but this appreciation should not be limited to just one month. Throughout the year, it’s crucial for us to continue recognizing the individuals, movements, and significant advancements that have been made to foster a better life for all. These achievements have been instrumental in establishing a society where everyone’s humanity is recognized and valued. 

Creating inclusive and equitable communities across every city begins with ensuring that Black entrepreneurs everywhere are intentionally supported. The success of said entrepreneurs and their businesses is vital to Black economical and generational wealth. According to Pew Research Center, only 3% of businesses in the United States are Black owned. Nearly six-in-ten Black adults (58%) say supporting Black businesses, or “buying Black,” is an extremely or very effective strategy for moving Black people toward equality in the U. S. While Black-owned businesses in the U.S. have grown significantly in recent years, they still make up a small share of firms and revenue in the country. 

The Pacesetters Network, powered by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Foundation, was created to develop an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform systemic opportunity for businesses of color (MBEs). We’re proud to share a list of standout MBEs that are a part of this network and are greatly contributing to Boston’s growing diverse culture and economy. This Black History Month and all year-round, patronize and promote Black businesses, and celebrate Black entrepreneurs.  

AJ Events, renowned for orchestrating standout global events, turns ordinary fundraisers into memorable experiences while propelling brand campaigns.  They specialize in creating bespoke weddings and private dinners for esteemed clients. Their approach is grounded in authenticity, strategy, content innovation, and immersive experiences. What makes AJ Events unique amongst competitors is that they handle all critical aspects of an event in-house, from conception to execution, ensuring unparalleled quality and a cohesive vision. 

The Boston Black Hospitality Coalition (BBHC) was formed as a strategic response to the critical need for preserving the rich heritage of Boston’s Black-owned hospitality sector. Recognizing the significance of a legacy spanning over 180 years, BBHC is committed to maintaining the unique blend of food, culture, and business that thrives in Boston’s Black communities. This initiative is not just about business preservation, but also about safeguarding a cultural cornerstone, deeply woven into the fabric of Boston’s identity. BBHC’s work underlines the importance of diversity in the hospitality sector and supports the endurance of these businesses into the future. 

Founded in 2012, the Delaney Policy Group is a Boston-based, Black-owned government affairs and strategic consulting firm focused on delivering high-value outcomes in complex policy environments.  With a proven track record of success in the cannabis industry, health care, biotechnology, and economic development, DPG specializes in strategic engagement for specified outcomes rather than brute force lobbying. 
 
DPG is Massachusetts’ only certified minority business enterprise in lobbying and government affairs. Their unique perspective creates opportunities for uniquely effective solutions. 

Inspiration Zone LLC stands out as a woman-led, minority-owned business, offering a unique blend of services to organizations in need of a comprehensive strategy towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They take pride in their expertise in DEI Consultation, where they strive to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone. Additionally, they excel in Brand Management, assisting businesses in creating a strong, positive brand image that aligns with clients’ values and goals. Furthermore, as thought leaders, they share innovative ideas and insights in their field to inspire and guide others. Juliette Mayers of the Inspiration Zone LLC has shared a latest venture – a book entitled Strategic Networking 2.0. Pick up a copy to learn all about the art of business and success. 

Want to ensure your next event is unparalleled? RoseMark’s design philosophy transforms fleeting events into enduring impressions, ensuring the audience remains engaged. They expertly tailor events to resonate, creating a unique visual identity consistent with the client’s brand for maximized impact. Incorporating well-rehearsed live action, motion graphics, HD video, and crystal-clear audio, they craft immersive experiences that inspire reflection, excitement, and widespread discussion beyond the event space. 

Visit our member directory to discover more minority-owned businesses. Be sure to keep up with our Pacesetters Network for insights and exposure for MBEs at all stages of development and capacity levels.  

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