The three-day Washington, D.C., gathering brought together Black business leaders, entrepreneurs, corporate executives and policymakers to strengthen chambers of commerce, expand economic opportunities and prepare businesses for the future.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 13, 2026) — The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) is celebrating the successful conclusion of its 2026 National Conference and School of Chamber Management, a three-day gathering focused on strengthening Black-owned businesses, expanding entrepreneurship and building lasting economic opportunities across the United States.

Held October 7–9 in Washington, D.C., the annual conference brought together Black chamber leaders, business owners, corporate executives, policymakers and entrepreneurs for education, advocacy, networking and professional development.

This year’s conference carried the theme “The Blackprint to Build: Strengthening Chambers. Scaling Businesses.”

The event also marked a major milestone for USBC, becoming the organization’s first national conference hosted at its new Innovation Campus, a property acquired in October 2025.

With Google serving as title sponsor, the gathering highlighted the importance of emerging technologies, strategic partnerships and stronger business institutions in advancing Black economic growth.

A New Innovation Campus Dedicated to Black Business Growth

The USBC Innovation Campus served as the central location for the conference, providing a space for collaboration, professional development and networking.

The campus represents an investment in the organization’s long-term mission to support Black entrepreneurs and strengthen the chambers of commerce that serve them.

USBC President and CEO Ron Busby Sr. emphasized the importance of building sustainable business infrastructure.

“Building a stronger Black business ecosystem starts with strengthening the chambers and entrepreneurs who serve as the backbone of our communities.”

Busby explained that the conference focused on returning to essential business fundamentals while preparing entrepreneurs to compete in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The organization hopes to strengthen its national network while helping business owners access the resources, relationships and knowledge necessary for long-term success.

Black Business Leaders Take Their Priorities to Capitol Hill

One of the conference’s central events was USBC’s annual Hill Day, held Thursday, October 8.

Participants traveled to Capitol Hill to engage with policymakers, congressional staff and organizational partners about issues affecting Black-owned businesses and the broader small business community.

The discussions emphasized the importance of advocacy in shaping policies that influence entrepreneurship and economic opportunity.

Conference programming also featured conversations about the State of Black Business, giving attendees opportunities to examine the challenges and opportunities facing entrepreneurs nationwide.

For Black chambers of commerce, the event reinforced their role as advocates connecting business owners with government officials, financial institutions and corporate partners.

Google Helps Entrepreneurs Explore Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence was another major focus of the conference.

Google sponsored a special educational session titled “Make AI Work for You,” led by Jasmine Shells, a Grow with Google Coach.

The Lunch & Learn explored how small business owners can incorporate artificial intelligence into daily operations to improve productivity and support business growth.

Discussions centered on practical applications of emerging technology, including streamlining business processes and helping entrepreneurs operate more efficiently.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, the session highlighted the importance of ensuring Black-owned businesses have opportunities to understand and use new technologies.

The conference also provided workshops, breakout sessions, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities designed to help business owners strengthen their operations.

School of Chamber Management Focuses on Stronger Organizations

Alongside the national conference, USBC hosted its School of Chamber Management.

The program brought together chamber executives and organizational leaders to share best practices, develop leadership skills, and explore strategies for serving their local business communities.

Sessions focused on strengthening organizational capacity and building effective networks capable of supporting entrepreneurs.

By investing in chamber leadership, USBC aims to create stronger institutions that can deliver business resources, educational opportunities, and advocacy to their members.

USBC Recognizes Outstanding Black Businesses and Chambers

The awards highlighted organizations demonstrating leadership, innovation, and service.

USBC said the recognition reflects the important contributions of Black chambers and small businesses to local economies and communities nationwide.

Networking Events Celebrate Black Business Culture and Community

Beyond the educational sessions, the conference featured several networking events designed to build relationships among attendees.

The Welcome Reception, presented by T-Mobile, provided an opportunity for entrepreneurs and chamber leaders to connect.

Other events included the Black Health Happy Hour, presented by PhRMA, and the USBC Masquerade and Costume Party, sponsored by PENN Entertainment and The Home Depot.

These gatherings offered opportunities for business leaders to exchange ideas, establish professional relationships, and explore potential partnerships.

The combination of educational programming and community-building experiences reflected the conference’s broader mission of strengthening connections throughout the Black business ecosystem.

Building a Stronger Future for Black Entrepreneurship

The conclusion of the 2026 National Conference marks another step in USBC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Black-owned businesses and the organizations that advocate for them.

Through its Innovation Campus, educational initiatives, corporate partnerships, and national advocacy efforts, USBC continues working to expand opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The conference also underscored the importance of collaboration between businesses, chambers of commerce, policymakers and corporate institutions.

As the organization looks ahead, its priorities include strengthening its national chamber network, expanding resources for entrepreneurs and creating partnerships that support sustainable economic development.

The central message of this year’s conference was clear: Building lasting Black business success requires strong institutions, innovative strategies, and meaningful economic opportunities.

For additional information and the conference photo gallery, visit USBC National Conference website.

Source: U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., November 12, 2026.