Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce 1st Day of Minority Enterprise Devepment Month 10.8.2026

GARDEN CITY, NY — August 16, 2026 — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) will launch its 2026 Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Month with its First Day of Activities on Thursday, October 8, 2026, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, community organizations, government representatives, and advocates committed to strengthening minority-owned businesses and expanding economic opportunity.

The event will be held at the Town of Hempstead Pavilion located at One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York 11550. The event will begin at 6:00 P.M. and end at 9:00 P.M.

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The First Day of MED Month will serve as a powerful kickoff to a month-long celebration focused on entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, business development, access to capital, networking, mentorship, procurement opportunities, and the growth of minority-owned enterprises. LIAACC is proud to be joined by three distinguished partner organizations: 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc.; African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.; and New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Together, these organizations bring complementary expertise and resources to a shared mission of advancing economic opportunity and empowering communities.

Host Organization: Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) serves as the host organization for the First Day of MED Month. Founded in 2010, LIAACC is dedicated to promoting the economic growth and development of African American and minority-owned businesses through advocacy, education, technical assistance, networking, access to resources, and strategic partnerships. Through MED Month, LIAACC brings heightened attention to the contributions of minority entrepreneurs while creating opportunities for businesses to connect with potential customers, partners, investors, government agencies, and other critical resources.

Partner Organization: 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc.

100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. is committed to developing and supporting the next generation of leaders through its focus on mentoring, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment. As a partner in MED Month, the organization brings its leadership-development mission and commitment to empowering Black men, youth, families, and communities into the broader conversation about entrepreneurship and economic advancement. Its participation reinforces the importance of mentorship, leadership, financial literacy, and economic empowerment in building stronger communities and creating sustainable pathways to success.

Partner Organization: African American Small Business Foundation, Inc.

The African American Small Business Foundation, Inc. (AASBF) serves as a fundraising and support organization focused on strengthening African American entrepreneurship and expanding opportunities for small-business owners. Through initiatives designed to promote entrepreneurship, business development, access to resources, and economic empowerment, the Foundation works to help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses and create generational economic impact. Its partnership during MED Month underscores the importance of investing in African American entrepreneurs and ensuring that small-business owners have the tools and resources necessary to grow and succeed.

Partner Organization: New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

The New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (NYCMSBCC) is a new business organization focused on advocating for and supporting minority-owned businesses throughout New York City. The Chamber seeks to connect entrepreneurs with business resources, networking opportunities, advocacy, education, strategic partnerships, and opportunities for growth. Its participation in MED Month represents an important collaboration between the Long Island and New York City business communities and reflects the growing need for regional cooperation to strengthen minority-owned enterprises and expand economic opportunity across New York.

A Unified Commitment to Minority Business Growth

The First Day of MED Month will demonstrate what can be accomplished when organizations with complementary missions come together around a common purpose. LIAACC, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, AASBF, and NYCMSBCC will collectively help spotlight the accomplishments and challenges of minority entrepreneurs while encouraging greater collaboration, investment, mentorship, and support for minority-owned businesses.

“Minority Enterprise Development Month is about more than recognizing minority-owned businesses it is about creating meaningful opportunities for them to grow, compete, create jobs, build wealth, and contribute to the economic strength of our communities,” said Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. “The First Day of Activities brings together organizations that understand the importance of economic empowerment and are prepared to work together to create greater opportunities for entrepreneurs.”

Businesses, entrepreneurs, community leaders, corporations, government officials, nonprofit organizations, and members of the public are encouraged to participate in MED Month activities and support the minority-owned businesses that contribute significantly to the region's economic vitality.

For additional information about Minority Enterprise Development Month and upcoming activities, visit:
LIAACC Events

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

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) is committed to promoting the economic development and growth of African American and minority-owned businesses through advocacy, education, networking, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships. LIAACC works to create an environment in which entrepreneurs can access opportunities, build sustainable businesses, and contribute to the economic prosperity of Long Island and beyond.

Media Contact:
Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Phil Andrews, President
Garden City, New York
LIAACC