By Keeyana Avery, keeyana@agencysevenpr.com
The Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), the largest Black chamber of commerce in Ohio, is urging the City of Cincinnati to reconsider a proposed funding cut in its Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Biennial Budget. The Chamber is requesting the restoration of the full $350,000 in annual support it has historically received from the City.
The AACC plays a vital role in the local economy and in supporting minority-owned businesses. According to an annual economic impact study conducted by the University of Cincinnati Economics Center, Black-owned businesses operating in Cincinnati:
- generate over $1.4 billion in sales
- support more than 8,500 jobs
- contribute approximately $10.3 million in earnings tax revenue to the city
“A modest investment from the City yields a significant return,” said AACC President and CEO Eric Kearney. “For every dollar of public support, the businesses we serve generate a return of five times that amount.”
In addition to its economic contributions, the AACC hosts more than 120 programs and events annually and operates the region’s Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC). Through MBAC, the AACC provides certifications, technical assistance, access to capital, and business development services for minority-, women-, veteran-, and EDGE-certified businesses. Recently, the AACC was named the Best Chamber in Ohio by Ohio Business Magazine and received the Research Impact Award from the University of Cincinnati’s Alpaugh Family Economics Center.
The AACC expressed its gratitude for the City’s past support and hopes for continued collaboration to ensure that minority entrepreneurs have equitable opportunities to succeed in Cincinnati. They are also asking for the cut in funding to be reconsidered, as it directly impacts local businesses.
For more information about the AACC and its programs, visit www.theaachamber.com.
The Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to providing resources, education, and support to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Our mission is to strengthen economic opportunities and enhance the quality of life for our members and the broader community.