EagleAwards_Banner-2023

2023 Eagle Awards Highlight Video

The Eagle Awards is the Chamber’s crowning celebration for Central Florida’s most dynamic businesses and entrepreneurs. This annual event is a culmination of the accomplishments and achievements of the year past. The Eagle Awards serve as a time to recognize and honor the corporations positively impacting the community and driving the growth and development of our vibrant and diverse business landscape. This opportunity showcases Chamber companies and brings out over 700 individuals for a night of elegance and enrichment.


Central Florida’s Black Chamber Making History By Assisting Black Businesses

ORLANDO – The African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida (“the Chamber”) is a membership organization serving public, private, and not-for-profit African American-owned businesses and organizations in Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia counties. For over seven decades, the Chamber has served its members as an advocate and resource. Established in 1945, the Chamber is a members-only network devoted to cultivating a thriving business environment for African American companies, an engaged public awareness for minority firms, and education and advocacy for both members and the Central Florida community.

Our mission is to be the principal advocate and preeminent leader in fostering economic success for African American owned businesses and the African American business community in Central Florida.

We currently have over 700 amazing members with diverse backgrounds in varying fields ( from the technology industry, construction, medical and legal fields, to food and beverage to name a few….our members are rockstars in their areas of business).

As a Chamber we stand on the four pillars of Advocacy, Access to Capital, Contracts and Education and Training Development.

In the year 2020 , during the time of the pandemic and great uncertainty, we were one of the only Chambers of Commerce to award over $100,000 in grant money to minority owned businesses and continued to award grants in 2021.

In 2022, in partnership with IKEA U.S. Community Foundation we awarded $75,000 in grant funds to business owners. These funders were dispersed in two ways.  The first disbursement was in the amount of $20,000 awarded to participants of the AACCCF Inaugural Pitch Competition at the 3rd Annual Empowerment Business Conference. Three business owners had the opportunity to pitch their businesses in front of corporations, community stakeholders, financial institutions and other business owners.  The first prize winner was awarded $10,000, second prize was awarded $7,000 and third prize was awarded $3,000.

The second disbursement of this grant took place with eleven black-owned businesses applying for and receiving the B.E.A.C.O.N (Black Entrepreneurs Are Creating Opportunities Now) Business Development Grant. Combining the mission of AACCCF to be the principal advocate and preeminent leader in fostering economic success for African American-owned businesses and the African American business community in Central Florida and the IKEA vision to create a better everyday life for the many people, the “Black Entrepreneurs Are Creating Opportunities Now” (BEACON) business development grant has been created.   The BEACON business development grant aims to provide funding for Black-owned businesses that are committed to creating employment opportunities and contributing to the social and economic growth of the Central Florida community.   BEACON grant funds can be used for marketing, advertising, hiring employees, employee retention, expanding facilities and other specific business needs.

The winners of the award were announced at our 2022 Holiday Business After Hours event at the University Club. Each business received $5000 in grant funding, for a total of $55,000 awarded.

Additionally, our annual Golf Outing and Player Development Clinic allowed us to award a total of $10,000 in grant money to two business owners/Chamber members who were impacted by the 2022 hurricanes.

This year, in partnership with BeyGOOD (Beyonce’ Knowles non-profit organization), and with Adidas, $500,000 will be awarded to minority owned businesses who were impacted by the hurricanes last year.

Additionally, we launched our first accelerator program for established business owners:  Accelerate Central Florida.  This program was sponsored by our Trustee Wells Fargo, and used the award winning curriculum StreetWise MBA powered by Interise.  Historically after completing the StreetWise MBA, business experience double digit growth rates, create jobs faster than the private sector, with higher average salaries and better benefits. Our first inaugural cohort will graduate on March and our first cohort of businesses will graduate on March 23, 2023.

Furthermore, we created opportunities for our members, corporations and financial institutions to meet, learn, and do business at CEO Roundtables, Supplier and Diversity Roundtables, networking events, golf outings and during our 3rd annual Empowerment Business Conference.

Similar to last year, we will continue to advocate for black-owned businesses at Black Chamber Day at the Capital next month (March) in Tallahassee.

We area also excited to announce our 19th annual Eagle Awards Gala will take place on May 20, 2023 at Disney Resort’s Coronado Springs Resort. This signature event celebrates Black excellence and recognizes businesses that have made a positive impact on the Central Florida community.

Membership to the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida has its benefits. Our members have access to networking events, grant opportunities, ribbon cuttings, monthly newsletters, opportunities to be highlighted on our social media platforms and so much more.  We also have two successful LEADs Groups in the Chamber.  New Member Orientation is held virtually the first Tuesday of every month and in-person, the last Tuesday of each month.

Information regarding our membership levels and upcoming events and workshops can be found on our website: www.blackcommerce.org, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

 


Top Takeaways from the 2022 Eagle Awards

The Eagle Awards Gala is the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida's (AACCCF) crowning celebration for Central Florida’s most dynamic growing businesses and entrepreneurs. The evening also serves as a time to recognize and honor the large corporations positively impacting our community and driving the growth and development of our vibrant and diverse business landscape. This year the event took place on April 2, 2022. We've compiled top takeaways and announcements to take note of!

1.) After yet another challenging year through the pandemic, members of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida have persevered and will continue to grow.

"...our members have powered through the
pandemic with notable accomplishments.." - Tanisha Nunn Gary, AACCCF President & CEO

2.) The Chamber has been a resource to small businesses in Central Florida, especially in these last few years of uncertainty, and will continue to be a resource in the future as well. New partnerships, training opportunities, and grants are in development.

"During the last two years, we have awarded 16 businesses with grants.
We will continue with our grant-giving by launching round 3 of our
grants later this year in partnership with IKEA." - Tanisha Nunn Gary, AACCCF President & CEO

"As we continue to provide entrepreneur training and development, in collaboration with Wells Fargo, this year we will launch our inaugural business cohort powered by Interise 'Streetwise MBA.'" - Tanisha Nunn Gary, AACCCF President & CEO

3.) The Eagle Awards Title Sponsor, Walt Disney World Resort, had some exciting updates of their own. Eagle Awards Co-Chair Leticia Adams announced that their newest attraction Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is scheduled to open this summer!

Read More 2022 Eagle Awards Articles:  View Full Recap | List of Award Winners | Red Carpet Fashion Review | Social Media Gallery 

 


Top 2022 Eagle Awards Social Media Posts

The Eagle Awards Gala is the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida's (AACCCF) crowning celebration for Central Florida’s most dynamic growing businesses and entrepreneurs. The evening also serves as a time to recognize and honor the large corporations positively impacting our community and driving the growth and development of our vibrant and diverse business landscape. This year the event took place on April 2, 2022.

Check out some of our favorite social media posts from Chamber members and attendees below. Want to see your photos? Continue to share your photos and videos from the event using #EagleAwards.

Read More 2022 Eagle Awards Articles:  View Full Recap | List of Award Winners | Red Carpet Fashion Review | Top Takeaways


2022 Eagle Awards Red Carpet Fashion Recap

The African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida and Walt Disney World Resort proudly presented the 2022 Eagle Awards on April 2, 2022. The event recognized individuals, small businesses, and corporations that have made a positive impact on the Central Florida community.

The Red Carpet set the scene for the entire event with live interviews from Florida National News, photographers, and content creators bustling about. This year as we returned to an in-person format, we also returned to the "Soar Into Africa" theme from 2020. Consider it Soar Into Africa Part 2.

Attendees rose to the occasion to reflect bold patterns, bright colors, and ensembles fit for royalty. A true display of #BlackExcellence, the red carpet fashion reflected both traditional and modern styles. Check out the top 3 trends below:

1.) Soar Into Africa

2.) Jewel Tones

3.) Classic Hollywood

 

Read More 2022 Eagle Awards Articles:  View Full Recap | List of Award Winners | Social Media Gallery | Top Takeaways

 

 


2022 Eagle Awards Winners

The African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida (AACCCF) and Walt Disney World Resort proudly presented the 2022 Eagle Awards Gala on April 2, 2022 at Walt Disney World Coronado Springs Resort to recognize small businesses that have made a positive impact on the Central Florida community.

This annual event is AACCCF’s crowning celebration for Central Florida’s most dynamic businesses and individuals and serves as a time to honor those members who drive the growth and development of our vibrant and diverse business landscape.

We are so pleased to announce the winners for each category:

Corporate Recognition Award Winner: Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo has demonstrated through voluntary actions, a commitment to equitable access to education, resources, and a commitment to sustainable social impact within local underserved communities. 

MLK Humanitarian of the Year: Reverend Dr. Robert Spooney

Reverend Dr. Robert Spooney has demonstrated an unselfish commitment to helping others and has gone above and beyond in serving his local community such as Chairman of the Parramore Community Engagement Council, past Chairman of the OCPS Academy of Academic Excellence Council, and past President of our African American Chamber of Commerce. A graduate of Jones High School and Florida A&M University, he is an inspiration to future generations and a beacon to our local community.

Small Business Advocate of the Year: City of Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill of District 5

Commissioner Regina Hill has helped businesses gain long-term contracts and obtain more exposure to corporate and government entities. She has been a long-time supporter for the residents of District 5 and the City of Orlando. Her commitment to the advancement and creation of community-enriching projects, policies, and proactive solutions have not gone without notice.

The Emerging Business of the Year Award: Deuce

The Emerging Business of the Year Award is presented to a business that has been in operation for one to three fiscal years and has demonstrated substantial growth. The selection committee evaluates the company’s overall business performance year to year, what the entrepreneur believes makes them unique, and their vision for the future of the business. Duece was a standout in this category.

The Enterprise Business of the Year: RTW Photography 

The Enterprise Business of the Year is awarded to a Black-owned business that has been in business for several years and has demonstrated an excellent strategy for business growth. The company must also display an effective management style and have a viable organizational structure. RTW Photography was a standout in this category.

The Eagle Award: Matthews Automotive Group

Matthews Automotive group was the winner of the 2022 Eagle Award. The Eagle Award, the most coveted award, is presented to the company that demonstrates the highest level of excellence in all facets of business. It is designed to recognize and award the African American-owned enterprise that has been in business for more than a decade and has made notable contributions to economic development, industry innovation, and community impact. 

Read More 2022 Eagle Awards Articles:  View Full Recap | List of Award Winners | Red Carpet Fashion Review | Social Media Gallery | Top Takeaways


Business Spotlight: KBI Staffing Solutions

Business Spotlight: KBI Staffing Solutions

March 29, 2021 | In Business Spotlight

This month’s business spotlight shines on KBI Staffing Solutions. KBI Staffing Solutions, LLC has the tools to connect companies with the best recruits and connect applicants with the right jobs for all of their qualifications.

What is your primary product or service?

KBI Staffing Solutions LLC is a multifaceted minority woman-owned firm offering a variety of staffing services to industry leaders in Florida and surrounding states. KBI offers jobs to the community and a workforce to companies looking to supplement the workforce.

What do you think makes Central Florida a special place to do business?  

Central Florida is unique in its ability to be a large and diverse and yet close nit. Business leaders are able to get involved in both business and community. KBI is extremely involved in the lives of our employees and the community at large. We can see the difference that we are making in the community that we call home.

Who is your target market/audience?

Our target audience is anyone looking for a job or a company looking to supplement its workforce. KBI’s niche markets are construction, hospitality, and administrative but we have also branched out and worked within the health field, waste & recycling management, as well as payroll processing and management.

In your opinion, what makes Central Florida's business community special? 

Central Florida is unique in its ability to be a large and diverse and yet close nit.

What is the most exciting thing you see happening in your industry?

With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the business has been turned on its head in some regard. No longer are we at ease about having an in-person meeting which hinders personal connection in some ways. As the state begins to relax on regulations, we are starting to get that personal connection back. Things are still different, and we all need to be cautious in meetings, groups, and gatherings but at least we are starting to shift the culture back to a more connective atmosphere.

What is the biggest benefit of joining the AACCCF?

The opportunity to network with like-minded business leaders. In an industry such as staffing, any connection can be an opportunity to help another business grow by providing the manpower necessary to take things to the next level. KBI provides both temporary and permanent placement which allows for us to tailor a staffing package to the needs of the client.

Do you have any current promotions, upcoming events, or recent accolades that we can promote?

KBI Staffing Solution owners Kenneth and Tiffany Hughes were recently featured on the cover of the February 12th, 2021 issue of the Orlando Business Journal and received the “2020 Fourth Quarter Model Member” award from Associated Builders and Contractors – Central Florida

Learn more about KBI Staffing Solution:

Website: https://www.kbistaffingsolutions.com/


Business Spotlight: The Bias Consulting Group

Business Spotlight: The Bias Consulting Group

March 10, 2021 | In Business Spotlight

 

This month’s business spotlight shines on the Bias Consulting Group. We congratulate the owner Shirley Bias for providing mentoring and business development coaching to clients on a national scale. 

What is your primary product or service?

Bias Consulting Group is an established business advisor company that provides mentoring and business development coaching to clients nationally. We work to help struggling small businesses through this pandemic improve their profit, grow and maintain customers, and lower expenses. We can help any small business recover $25,000+ in lost revenue over the next 90 to 120 days without spending a cent on marketing or advertising.

What do you think makes Central Florida a special place to do business?  

Central Florida has so much potential. We believe that you can do anything that you want to do in Central Florida. Central Florida a growing metropolitan area and its diversity allows people to participate in all areas of Central Florida’s economic and community development.

Who is your target market/audience?

Our target market is medical and health entrepreneurs who are in the starter stages of their company, usually the first five (5) years.  However, we have clients in other areas including, on-line retail and non-profit. We will work with most industries if we find that they are a good fit for our company. 

In your opinion, what makes Central Florida's business community special? 

As mentioned above, Central Florida is a growing area. Because most people have moved from other areas to the Central Florida area, we find that Central Florida residents and business owners are open to meeting new people and looking at new business ideas. Potential clients are looking for the best company and the best deal. 

What is the most exciting thing you see happening in your industry?

Remote working has significantly increased the areas of the country that we offer our services. Virtual meetings allow our industry to offer our services without added travel-related costs. Therefore, allowing clients to spend more of their money on coaching services. 

What is the biggest benefit of joining the AACCCF?

AACCCF allows us to network with other like-minded entrepreneurs while sharing ideas, contacts, and referrals. We are hoping to partner with other members of the Chamber to help them grow their businesses as well as grow our business. 

Do you have any current promotions, upcoming events, or recent accolades that we can promote?

Bias Consulting Group is offering the following promotion to the AACCCF:

  Free digital book at https://bias.group/

  Free 1 hour consultation

  Coaching promotional package

What you’re getting:

One-on-One weekly Coaching Meetings with Certified Business Coach ($5,200 Value)

One-on One Inquiry Emails/Calls Monday through Friday 9 AM - 4 PM weekdays ($2,500 Value)

E-Learning System Resources ($2,400 Value)

      Access to Graphic Design Team to Help Create Business Cards, Postcards and Other Marketing      Materials

      Access to Internet Marketing Team to Help Craft Sales Funnels, Landing Pages, Websites and Full 

      Fledge Campaigns

Case Studies and Examples of Other Businesses Using their Market Dominating Strategies ($500 Value)

Secret Lead Generating Hacks ($1,000 Value)

Secret Conversion Hacks ($1,000 Value)

Value $12,600 per year or $1,050 per month

Special offer for AACCCF:

$400 per month for 6 months 

 

Learn more about The Bias Consulting Group:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shirley-bias-2165565

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Biasgroupacademy

Primary Website: http://bias.group

Secondary Website: https://biasgroupacademy.com/

 


Business Spotlight: Luxurii Nails Salon

This month’s business spotlight shines on Luxurii Nails Salon! Built by a female entrepreneur and her team who provides top-notch, quality service to their customers. We asked them a few questions about their business and here is what they had to say:

What is your primary product or service? 

Thank you for the opportunity to showcase our business AACCF! We are a full service nail salon staffed with expertly trained technicians to service you. We also offer Waxing, Threading, Eyelash Extensions, Eyebrow Tinting and more!

What do you think makes Central Florida a special place to do business? 

I think Central Florida is wonderful for its great sunny weather, diverse and vibrant population and a friendly business climate that is second to none. 

Who is your target market/audience? 

We believe that the beneficial effects of getting a Nail Salon Spa Treatment span both sexes and expand to children as well. Pampering and stress relief is a must to get a break from the nuances of everyday life. Other benefits include improvement of blood circulation, a positive effect on self-esteem, improvement of your overall appearance and an outlet for different styles and creativity!

In your opinion, what makes Central Florida’s business community special?

What makes the business community special is the fact that everyone is eager to network and collaborate in a positive way to advance the business community as a whole. 

What is the most exciting thing you see happening in your industry? 

The nail community is expanding greatly to include so many people and the creativity that is emerging is just astounding. 

What is the biggest benefit of joining the AACCCF? 

Being a part of a community looking to support African-American commerce locally will always be something I fully support. The biggest benefit of joining the chamber is the relationships and support we have received from the leadership and the members. The leaders and the members truly want every business to succeed. We have been introduced to numerous photography and production companies through the chamber. Instead of competing against each other, we have actually supported each other and referred business to one another. 

Do you have any current promotions, upcoming events, or recent accolades that we can promote? 

Bring us three clients and you get a free set! 

 

Learn more about Luxurii Nails Salon

Facebook: Luxurii Nails Salon

Instagram: LuxuriiNailsSalon

Website: www.LuxuriiNails.com

Email:  luxuriinails@gmail.com