President’s Letter
Welcome from the JBCC President
As we step into 2025, I am filled with excitement and a strong sense of purpose for the journey ahead. JBCC remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Black-owned businesses in Jacksonville and beyond. With your partnership and support, we will achieve bold milestones and drive economic empowerment for our entire community.
Understanding Our Community: The State of Black Business Survey
This year, we are launching the State of Black Business Survey, an important initiative designed to capture the unique challenges and opportunities facing Black entrepreneurs. Your insights are crucial in helping us craft targeted strategies that will bring about meaningful change. We encourage all of you to participate and share your perspectives
Driving Equitable Growth: Jacksonville Collaborative Economic Empowerment Initiative (JCEEI)
Through the Jacksonville Collaborative Economic Empowerment Initiative, we are committed to fostering a more inclusive local economy. This program focuses on expanding access to education, workforce opportunities, digital resources, and infrastructure development, ensuring that everyone has the tools to succeed.
Global Reach: Elevating Black-Owned Businesses
JBCC is focused on taking Black-owned businesses to the global stage in 2025. By partnering with organizations such as the Small Business Administration, Microsoft, and Google, we will provide our members with certifications, training, and access to international markets. These resources will help your businesses scale and compete globally.
Building Careers: Jacksonville Build Initiative (JBI)
In response to workforce gaps in the construction industry, we are excited to launch the Jacksonville Build Initiative. This 4-week training program is designed to equip individuals with essential skills and open doors to sustainable careers, creating long-term opportunities within the construction sector.
Supporting Families: Community Thrive Initiative
Affordable childcare is a fundamental pillar of economic empowerment. With the Community Thrive Initiative, we are expanding access to childcare services and educational programs. This effort will help working parents and strengthen our community’s foundation for future growth.
Strengthening Partnerships
We are also deepening our collaborations with the Small Business Administration, Jacksonville Small Emerging Business program, and other partners to offer innovative funding, training, and resources. These partnerships are key to unlocking new opportunities for our members and ensuring their long-term success.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, JBCC is unwavering in its commitment to helping Black businesses grow locally, scale nationally, and thrive globally. Together, we will transform challenges into opportunities and make 2025 a year of bold action and collective success.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Let’s make this year one of empowerment, innovation, and growth for all!
Please feel free to reach out to me at sdenson@jacksonvillebcc.org to explore new ways we can collaborate.
With gratitude and determination,
Shannon Denson
President
Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commerce (JBCC)