FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2024

New Nonprofit Launches in Akron: The Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County Aims to Empower Black-Owned Businesses

Contact: Robert E. DeJournett, President & CEO

Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County
1700 W. Market Street #188; Akron, OH 44313
Email: info@blackchambersc.org Phone: (330) 289-2706

Akron, OH — A powerful new force for economic equality is forming in Summit County. The
Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County (BCCSC) proudly announces its launch,
led by Robert DeJournett, President & CEO, and Misty E. Beasley, Vice President & COO,
both seasoned leaders in minority business development and diversity, equality, and inclusion
(DEI). With over 30 years of combined experience, DeJournett and Beasley are poised to lead
the organization toward making a significant, lasting impact on the region's economic
landscape.

The mission of the Black Chamber of Commerce – Summit County (BCCSC) is to develop, empower, promote, and support Black-owned businesses and to be a collective voice and advocate on behalf of the interest of the Black business community and the community at large. The nonprofit aims to bridge the racial wealth gap by driving entrepreneurship and creating opportunities for inclusive commerce. It will focus on key areas such as advocacy, education, collaborations, and resource accessibility, enabling Black entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to the region’s prosperity.

Inspired by landmark studies, including McKinsey & Company’s “The Economic Impact of Closing
the Racial Wealth Gap” and Akron’s “2017 Elevate Greater Akron Assessment,” the BCCSC is
dedicated to addressing systemic economic barriers that have long hindered Black communities. By
aligning with local and national leaders, the BCCSC aims to drive real, lasting change and cultivate
a thriving Black business ecosystem.

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A Call for Support
The BCCSC is reaching out to individuals, businesses, stakeholders, and community leaders to
support its mission. As part of its founding initiative, the BCCSC is seeking contributions from
Founding Donors with a minimum donation of $1,000. The unrestricted funds will help build the
organization’s foundation and fuel its growth. In return, Founding Donors will receive exclusive
recognition, including:
• Acknowledgment within the BCCSC office/headquarters, Founding Donor listing on our
website, and special event recognition.
• Invitations to the prestigious Founding Donor Recognition Event.
• A Founding Donor Certificate and Pin.
• Access to exclusive benefits, discounts, and events.
• The opportunity to join the Founding Donor Advisory Board.

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Contributions must be received by December 1, 2024, to secure Founding Donor recognition.
Supporters can mail their contributions to the Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County or
request an invoicing link for online payment.

About the Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County
The Black Chamber of Commerce - Summit County is committed to fostering business development, promoting access to capital, and creating inclusive economic opportunities for Black-owned businesses. Through advocacy, strategic partnerships, and innovative initiatives, the BCCSC will work to transform the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Summit County, catalyzing business growth,
sustainability, and expansion of opportunities for the Black community.

For more information or to become a Founding Donor, please contact Robert DeJournett at
(330) 289-2706 or rdejournett@blackchambersc.org, or Misty E. Beasley at (330) 338-6096 or
mbeasley@blackchambersc.org.

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