About Us

The Urban Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for the creation, growth and general welfare of African American businesses in the Las Vegas community.

The Urban Chamber of Commerce actively promotes the expansion of business opportunities on behalf of its members through referrals, partnerships, seminars, technical assistance and marketing.

The Urban Chamber of Commerce focuses on economic and business development, education, convention/tourism and special projects.

History

The Nevada Black Chamber of Commerce was founded July 7, 1980, after the seed was planted by Katherine Joseph. Ms. Joseph met with members of the Oakland, California Chamber of Commerce during a visit there and was very impressed with their efforts.

When Katherine returned home she shared the idea with members of the NAACP. At that time her schedule was extremely busy which prevented her from moving forward. She solicited the help of Sarann Knight-Preddy who formed a board consisting of Dr. William “Bob” Bailey, James O. Porter ESQ, Reverend Sam Roberson, Lou Conner, Al O’Neal, Ken Brass, Rev. Emanuel Wasson, Ruby Amie Pilot and John Gardner.

In 1997, under the leadership of Al McConnell and several other community leaders the decision was made to change the name of the Nevada Black Chamber to the Urban Chamber of Commerce in an effort to serve Southern Nevada. During the past ten (10) years the Chamber has been led by Presidents Harvey Phelps, Dorothie Clark, Sherman Rutledge and Hannah Brown. The Chamber has experienced many successes which include:

• A successful Scholarship Program which has contributed    thousands of dollars to deserving students
• Monthly Networking Luncheons
• Golf Tournaments
• Joint Luncheons and Holiday Mixers with the Asian and Latin    Chambers of Commerce.

Mission Board of Directors Staff