Join us in a compelling conversation with Ernisha Hall, President & CEO of The Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce. In this episode, Ernisha shares her insights into amplifying Black business sustainability and growth, offering a roadmap for entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking to thrive in today’s dynamic landscape.
Getting Started: The Journey Begins
Sterling: Let’s get started. How did you get started? What inspired you to start the Black Chambers and the business directory? What was your reason for starting those?
Ernisha: It really was simple. It was about economic equity for the Black community. I own another business, and through that, I saw a lot of missed opportunities for our community. So, it was a desire to start a platform specifically for Black-owned businesses in Virginia. We have members in Maryland and DC as well.
Filling the Gaps: The Statewide Reach
Sterling: Am I right to understand that there was no Black Chamber of Commerce in Virginia until you started?
Ernisha: There was no state Black Chamber. We have regional Black Chambers, but Virginia is a very large state with gaps in representation. We started with the Virginia Black Business Directory, which grew faster than anticipated. We had 800 members in the first year and around 1,100 last year. That’s when we realized we needed to grow and started the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit. We now have nearly 1,200 members.
Increasing Prosperity and Sustainability
Sterling: How can Black-owned companies increase prosperity and sustainability, especially in this climate?
Ernisha: Education is key. Business owners don’t know what they don’t know. It’s about knowing how to work on your business while working on it. Applying for grants is crucial; there are many available for for-profit businesses. I just put out a list of grants and encourage our members to apply.
Supporting the State: Statewide Services
Sterling: Do you service every part of the state? What are some of the functions that you have to bring Black business owners together?
Ernisha: We service the entire state through strategic partnerships, both virtual and in-person networking. Our events are opportunities to connect and create a supportive ecosystem between businesses.
Advocacy and Long-Term Vision
Sterling: What is your long-term vision for the Black Chamber of Commerce and Business Directory?
Ernisha: The Black Business Directory is an arm of the Chamber, sharing a strategic partnership and plan. Our long-term vision includes initiatives like Advocacy Day, where we meet with delegates and legislators to voice our needs. It’s about showing up for ourselves and each other.
Success Stories
Sterling: Are there any success stories about companies that worked with you and saw significant growth?
Ernisha: One member received a contract from AARP for nearly 10,000 units of her product after being discovered at our Virginia Black Business Expo. Another member’s products are now in the Hyatt hotel guest shops. We also help members get their businesses started through our business accelerator program.
The Power of Partnerships
Sterling:** Explain the importance of partnerships. How do they help in business growth?
**Ernisha:** We can’t do it alone. Strategic partnerships amplify visibility and sustainability. For example, small banks merge to compete with larger ones. Similarly, businesses need to collaborate to thrive.
### Thriving in the New Year
Sterling: How can Black-owned companies stand out and thrive this year?
Ernisha: Stay persistent and consistent. Don’t be afraid to put your business out there. Create a schedule and stick to it. Amplify your visibility yourself before expecting others to do so.
Upcoming Initiatives
Sterling: What upcoming initiatives and programs is the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce excited about?
Ernisha: In March, we have our Empower Her brunch in Alexandria, Virginia. In April, our GovCon conference in Richmond will focus on government contracting. We have the Virginia Black Business Expo and Conference in Arlington, Virginia in August.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Sterling: What advice would you give to aspiring Black entrepreneurs?
Ernisha: Trust yourself and your vision. Embrace challenges and learn from setbacks. Persistence and consistency are key. Don’t give up on yourself.
Joining the Chamber and Directory
Sterling: How can people join the Black Chamber of Commerce and have their business featured in the Black Business Directory?
Ernisha: You can join by visiting our website at vablackchamberofcommerce.org. For updates on programs and events, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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