L.I. African American Chamber of Commerce Builds Legacy of Economic Empowerment

Founded in 2010, the chamber continues expanding business opportunities, developing leaders and earning national recognition

GARDEN CITY, N.Y., Nov. 8, 2026 — What began as a vision to strengthen African American entrepreneurship on Long Island has evolved into one of New York state’s most influential minority business advocacy organizations.

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC), founded in 2010, continues to build on more than 16 years of service, strategic partnerships, business development and economic empowerment throughout Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Kings counties.

Under the leadership of President Phil Andrews, the chamber has grown from approximately 20 members to roughly 500, establishing itself as New York state’s largest African American chamber of commerce. Its journey reflects a commitment to transforming economic challenges into opportunities for business ownership, financial independence and generational wealth

A Defining Milestone: SBA Small Business Champion of the Year

One of the chamber’s defining moments came in 2019, when the U.S. Small Business Administration’s New York District Office recognized Andrews as Small Business Champion of the Year. The recognition highlighted his commitment to entrepreneurship, business advocacy and economic development across the 14 counties served by the SBA’s New York District Office.

The honor represented more than an individual achievement. It demonstrated the growing influence of an organization working to connect underserved entrepreneurs with resources, relationships and opportunities essential to business success.

Building on the SBA Recognition

Following the 2019 milestone, LIAACC continued strengthening its role in the regional business community. In 2022, the chamber participated in the SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program through U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., providing technical assistance and business support to underserved entrepreneurs. That same year, U.S. Black Chambers recognized LIAACC as its August Spoke of the Month.

The chamber’s work has also included financial education, minority- and women-owned business enterprise certification assistance, government contracting workshops, supplier diversity initiatives and business networking opportunities.

National Recognition and 15 Years of Impact

In 2025, LIAACC celebrated its 15th anniversary. The chamber reported supporting more than 1,500 businesses through its services, outreach and programming over its first 15 years. U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., also named LIAACC a finalist for its 2025 Chamber of the Year Award.

The chamber has attracted media attention through outlets including Black Enterprise, NBC’s “Positively Black,” Newsday and Long Island Business News.

Expanding the Mission in 2026

The chamber entered 2026 with renewed momentum, expanding its programming, developing emerging leaders and strengthening its relationships with financial institutions, corporations, government agencies and community organizations.

In August, LIAACC announced its Young Professionals Network, designed to provide emerging entrepreneurs and professionals with mentorship, business resources and leadership development opportunities.

On Oct. 8, the chamber launched its 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month activities at the Town of Hempstead Pavilion. The program brought together business leaders, corporate representatives, government officials and economic development professionals to address access to capital, procurement, supplier diversity and pathways to business ownership.

The chamber also continued its efforts to improve financial literacy, business credit readiness and access to financing through educational programming and financial-sector partnerships.

Leadership That Extends Beyond the Chamber

Andrews is also founding president of the African American Small Business Foundation, Inc., the New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and One Hundred Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. These organizations provide additional avenues for entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, mentorship, professional development and community advancement.

His leadership has earned recognition beyond the SBA, including induction into the Long Island Business Hall of Fame, Long Island Business News Icon Honors, recognition as a City & State New York Long Island Trailblazer and inclusion among Long Island Business News’ influential Long Islanders.

Looking Toward the Future

As LIAACC moves forward, its priorities include expanding access to capital, increasing government and corporate contracting opportunities, strengthening membership services, preparing the next generation of business leaders and building sustainable partnerships.

From its founding in 2010 to the SBA recognition in 2019, national recognition in 2025 and expanding programs in 2026, LIAACC’s history demonstrates the potential of sustained chamber leadership to strengthen businesses and communities.

About: Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

Founded in 2010, the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. promotes economic development, entrepreneurship, business education, access to capital, government contracting opportunities and strategic partnerships. LIAACC serves Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Kings counties.

Website: https://liaacc.org | Email: info@liaacc.org

Historical SBA recognition video: https://youtu.be/ex8g0Nt9tbg