The Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce is marking a milestone that deserves attention: 40 years of sustained advocacy for Black entrepreneurs across the state.
During a recent radio interview with Sugabear & La Molly, Dr. Angelic Cole, the chamber’s president, articulated what sets this organization apart. “Black excellence is not a moment, it’s a movement,” she explained. It’s a philosophy that has guided the chamber since 1985, transforming it from a grassroots network into what Board Chair Malcolm Evans describes as “a statewide force for business advocacy, legacy building, and inclusive innovation.”
The stakes are higher than many realize. When Black-owned businesses close their doors, communities lose more than economic engines, they lose cultural touchstones and the economic multiplier effect that keeps dollars circulating locally. What makes the chamber effective is its practical approach. Members gain direct access to corporate partners, capital resources, and mentorship. Dr. Cole has worked to eliminate the disconnect between service providers and business owners by facilitating real-time connections during workshops. No more taking notes and promising to follow up later, the conversations happen in the room.
The organization’s 40th anniversary gala on October 25th at the Gaylord Rockies Resort represents more than celebration. It’s what Dr. Cole calls “a launchpad for what’s next,” honoring legacy while charting future direction. With Hazel Miller & The Collective providing entertainment and networking opportunities throughout the evening, it’s positioned as both tribute and catalyst.
For those interested in participating, whether as business owners, corporate partners, or community supporters, the chamber maintains an accessible presence at cbcc.biz. As Evans emphasizes, the organization’s three-person team makes themselves available for one-on-one conversations, particularly with smaller businesses who might hesitate to reach out. “Our small businesses are the cornerstone of the chamber,” he notes. “Never feel like you’re not going to have a voice.”