AUSTIN – The Texas Association of African American Chambers of Commerce (TAAACC) will host its Annual Conference September 22-23, 2016 at the DoubleTree Austin NW. This year’s theme is “Building for the Future.”
“We look forward to an enlightening exchange this year,” said TAAACC Chairman Christopher Herring. “Anytime we are able to convene our state’s Black chambers of commerce and Black business owners, we grow in our ability to fashion strategies to improve the quality life for Black Texans. The speed of change in the marketplace demands that we adapt and innovate on the fly as we pursue our mission.
” Attendees at this year’s conference will notice familiar presentations like the always insightful Texas Economic Forecast delivered by economist William Michael Cunningham, and new additions like the TAAACC Policy Breakfast. This installment of the Policy Breakfast will focus on opportunities in the Healthcare industry. Dallas business leader Albert C. Black Jr., former chair of the board of Baylor Scott & White will share his perspectives on this critical industry sector. The breakfast series highlights five industries that underpin the Texas economy; Energy, Financial Services, Healthcare, Telecom/Tech, and Transportation.
“Our goal is to present information that both chambers and business leaders can use to be more effective in pursuit of our common goal – stronger, more profitable businesses that understand business’ role in solving the challenges faced by Black Texans,” said Charles O’Neal, President of TAAACC. “The dynamic growth of Texas’ Black population coupled with exponential growth in the number of Black-owned businesses puts Texas squarely among national leaders in efforts to improve Black lives by creating solutions.”
The Governor’s Office of Small Business will join us to offer presentations on the future of Black entrepreneurship and expanding access to business skills, while members of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus will preview the upcoming Legislative session. Of special interest is an entire separate workshop track Friday afternoon focused on State of Texas construction opportunities.
“Because access to capital is always high on the list of challenges of business owners face, the US Black Chambers, Inc. will roll out details of a new business line of credit made available through New Orleans-based Liberty Bank,” noted O’Neal. “We expect that Houston’s Unity Bank will also be present to maximize its outreach to businesses across the state. We also believe that presentations by Black mayors of Texas cities will enlighten those who aren’t aware that more than forty Texas cities have Black mayors. That leadership represents millions of dollars of contracting opportunity.”
The two-day conference kicks off with the annual TAAACC Golf Challenge. According to golf honorary chair James Harris, HEB Diversity Manager, the 12:30 PM shotgun start on Thursday at Austin’s Avery Ranch Golf Club will signal the opening of “Building for the Future.” For more information visit www.taaacc.org
