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Long Island African American Chamber Of Commerce Expands Outreach To Suffolk County

Organization launches membership drive, business workshops, and grant awareness to support minority-owned businesses across the region.

Attendees listen during the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Minority Enterprise Development Month event in Suffolk County, where chamber leaders highlighted new outreach efforts aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses.
Attendees listen during the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Minority Enterprise Development Month event in Suffolk County, where chamber leaders highlighted new outreach efforts aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses. (Courtesy Phil Andrews)

BRENTWOOD, NY — The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) is expanding its outreach and engagement efforts in Suffolk County as part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic empowerment and increase support for minority-owned businesses across Long Island.

The initiative was highlighted during the organization’s Annual Minority Enterprise Development Month (MED Month) event held at Lorraine Gregory Communications in Brentwood, where chamber leaders outlined new partnerships, programming, and membership initiatives aimed at increasing access to resources for local entrepreneurs and professionals.

LIAACC, recognized as the largest African American chamber of commerce in New York State, serves businesses throughout Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Brooklyn. Officials said Suffolk County represents one of the region’s most dynamic and diverse business corridors, home to thousands of small businesses and emerging enterprises.

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Suffolk County Leadership

Jordon Isaac, owner of Cornucopia Business Consulting, has been appointed Suffolk County director for the chamber. Chamber President Phil Andrews said the leadership team is enthusiastic about Isaac’s role in expanding outreach and strengthening support networks for minority-owned businesses in the county.

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“The chamber looks forward to supporting Jordan’s efforts to increase both the scope and size of minority-owned businesses in Suffolk County,” Andrews said.

“A Stronger Suffolk County Means A Stronger Long Island”

Andrews said the expansion is intended to provide entrepreneurs with access to opportunities, professional networks, and long-term growth tools.

“Expanding into Suffolk County is not just a geographic step — it is a commitment to local entrepreneurs who deserve access to opportunities, resources, and networks that fuel long-term growth,” Andrews said. “Our chamber is building bridges that ensure every business owner — from Wyandanch to Patchogue, from Brentwood to Riverhead — has a seat at the table of economic empowerment.”

Membership Drive Benefits

Through the Suffolk County membership drive, business owners will have access to:

  • Business development workshops and technical support covering certification, procurement, government contracting, funding opportunities, and scaling strategies.
  • Regional and statewide networking connections with corporate partners, policymakers, lenders, and economic development agencies.
  • Marketing and visibility opportunities, including chamber promotions, business expos and member spotlights.
  • Training and continuing education programs focused on workforce development and entrepreneurship.
  • Advocacy efforts supporting equitable access to capital, contracts and business resources.

Grant Opportunities For Suffolk Businesses

Chamber officials also highlighted a limited-time grant opportunity funded through the American Rescue Plan as part of Suffolk County’s Downtown Revitalization Program. In partnership with Trellus Same-Day Local Delivery & Marketplace, LIAACC is distributing $125,000 in JumpSMART grants for small businesses in Suffolk County.

Known as the LIAACC Delivery Grant, the initiative is designed to help minority-owned businesses compete with larger e-commerce retailers by subsidizing local delivery and marketing services. Individual grants of $2,500 are available while funding lasts.

Upcoming Programs And Events

LIAACC’s Suffolk County expansion will include:

  • Local business networking receptions
  • Small business roundtables and listening sessions
  • Procurement and supplier diversity events
  • Chamber membership orientations
  • Small Business Month programs and regional resource fairs

How To Join

Suffolk County business owners, nonprofit leaders, and professionals are encouraged to enroll in the chamber’s network. Membership information and event listings are available on the organization’s website.

About LIAACC

The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is the largest African American chamber of commerce in New York State, serving Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Brooklyn. The organization provides advocacy, training, networking, and business development resources aimed at helping entrepreneurs grow and sustain their enterprises.

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