LONG ISLAND, NY — As the first quarter of 2026 unfolds, the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC), New York State’s largest African American Chamber, is officially launching its 2026 membership campaign. Under the banner “Connect, Grow, Lead,” the Chamber is inviting a new generation of entrepreneurs, corporate professionals, and legacy business owners to join a movement focused on measurable economic impact and generational wealth.

Building on the momentum of a successful 15th-anniversary year, LIAACC is doubling down on its mission to provide more than just networking. The Q1 initiative focuses on the “Six Pillars of Service”: Advocacy, Access to Capital, Contracting, Entrepreneur Training, Chamber Development, and Technology.

Why Membership is Strategic, Not Symbolic

In today’s complex economy, LIAACC serves as a critical bridge between small businesses and the resources needed to scale. “Membership in the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce is a strategic investment in your business’s bottom line,” said Phil Andrews, President of LIAACC. “Our members don’t just attend meetings; they gain access to decision-makers, multi-million-dollar procurement pathways, and the technical training required to compete at the highest levels.”

Q1 Member Benefits & Opportunities

New and renewing members in 2026 gain immediate access to a robust ecosystem of support, including:

• Procurement & Contracting: Specialized guidance on MWBE certification and direct connections to government and corporate supplier diversity programs.
• Capital Pathways: Access to a network of banking partners, lenders, and financial literacy workshops designed to make businesses “loan-ready.”
• High-Impact Visibility: Opportunities for member spotlights on LIAACC’s nationally recognized platforms and media features in outlets like Black Enterprise and Newsday.
• Expert-Led Training: Workshops on emerging trends, including AI implementation for small businesses and strategic marketing.

Upcoming Q1 Events for Prospective Members

LIAACC encourages those interested in joining to experience the “Power of the Room” at these upcoming first-quarter sessions:

• Business Networking Mixer – “Windows of Opportunity”: Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (Partnering with Chase Hicksville).
• Black History Month Community Forum: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
• 9th Annual International Women’s Conference: Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Hofstra University (Theme: Her Voice, Her Culture, Her Legacy, Her Power).
• Homegrown Heroes of Long Island Fundraising Celebration: Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Adelphi University.

To register for the above events listed on the chamber’s event list or view additional events visit: https://liaacc.org/events-list/#!event-list

Join the Movement

LIAACC serves the counties of Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings. Membership levels are available for sole proprietors, small businesses, non-profits, and large corporations.

“As we look toward the future of Long Island’s economy, our goal is to ensure our members aren’t just participating—they are leading,” added Rose Ward, Vice President of LIAACC. “The future belongs to the connected.”

To become a member or view a full list of upcoming initiatives, visit: https://liaacc.org/join-liaacc

About: Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. – LIAACC is a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization dedicated to the economic development of African American and minority-owned businesses. As a nationally acclaimed chamber, LIAACC provides advocacy, education, and access to key resources to strengthen the regional business ecosystem.