The Black Chamber of Arizona (BCAZ) under the new leadership of Dr. Velma Trayham marked its largest event in the 26 year history on December 13, 2024, hosting over 500 business leaders from Arizona and across the nation at the masquerade-themed 26th Anniversary Pinnacle Awards Gala. Presented by JPMorgan Chase and SRP, the evening showcased Arizona’s growing influence as a hub for Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
Celebrating Corporate Leadership
BCAZ recognized the following Corporate Honorees for their commitment to fostering community development:
- Cox Communications
- Arizona State University (ASU)
- Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)
- JPMorgan Chase
Wells Fargo’s $100,000 Grant Announcement
A highlight of the evening was Wells Fargo’s announcement of a $100,000 grant, benefiting 11 small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals in Greater Phoenix. The grant will provide critical resources to address challenges such as access to capital and promote sustainable growth.
Rise Together Campaign Launch
Dr. Sharon Smith, Executive Board Member of BCAZ and Vice President of Outreach at ASU, introduced the Rise Together Campaign, a $1.5 million fundraising initiative to support Black entrepreneurs by:
- Expanding resources and facilities for Black-owned businesses,
- Developing programs to drive systemic change, and
- Reducing wealth disparities to increase economic mobility.
“The Rise Together Campaign is our commitment to breaking down barriers, empowering entrepreneurs, and fostering long-term economic growth in Arizona’s Black community,” said Dr. Smith.
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Dynamic Speakers and Special Guests
The gala featured a stellar lineup of leaders and speakers, including:
- Angela Yee, celebrity emcee and host of Way Up with Angela Yee
- Christel Bell, welcoming emcee and ABC15 Arizona reporter
- Ron Busby, President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., who delivered a powerful keynote address
- Teniqua Broughton, spotlighting critical data from the State of Black Arizona
- Tempe Mayor Corey Woods and Melvin Coleman, President & CEO of the Atlanta Black Chamber
Acknowledging Supporters
This exceptional evening would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and partners, including:
- Presenting Sponsors: JPMorgan Chase, SRP
- Gold Sponsors: Stingley Management – McDonald’s, Thinkzilla Consulting LLC
- Silver Sponsors: Edward Jones, National Bank of Arizona, State of Black Arizona
- Bronze Sponsors: Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Lottery, Blaylock Van LLC, Desert Botanical Garden, Fry’s Food Stores, Growth Partners AZ, University of Phoenix
- Media Partners: ABC 15 Arizona, Arizona Informant
Special thanks to Office Depot as the print sponsor and Inflect Digital.
Looking Ahead
The gala not only celebrated the achievements of Arizona’s Black business community but also set the stage for future initiatives. Through programs like the Rise Together Campaign, BCAZ aims to reduce economic disparities and empower Black entrepreneurs, driving systemic change for generations to come.
For more information, visit BlackChamberAZ.com.
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