Programs & Initiatives
Eight programs designed to meet Black entrepreneurs where they are — and take them where they want to go.
Our Full Program Portfolio
From foundational business training to civic advocacy, financial coaching to youth development — every program reflects a specific commitment to Black business success.
Black Business Builders Program
Our foundational initiative providing Black entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and community support needed to launch and grow. Workshops rotate across Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, and Oakley.
- Business planning and goal setting
- Digital branding and marketing
- Legal structure and business setup
- Growth strategy and scaling
- Expert office hours with business professionals
- Peer networking mixers
Youth Entrepreneur Academy
A 6-week hybrid program focused on entrepreneurship and leadership for young people ages 14–24. Participants develop real business concepts and compete in a live pitch competition.
- 6-week hybrid format (in-person + virtual)
- Business ideation and planning
- Branding, marketing, and pitching
- Mentorship from established entrepreneurs
- Live pitch competition at program close
- Scholarships and prizes for top participants
Community Equity & Civic Impact Initiative
Amplifying Black voices in public policy through community listening sessions, roundtables with elected officials, and active civic engagement.
- Community listening sessions throughout ECC
- Roundtables with elected officials
- "Why We Matter" awareness campaign
- Black Business Directory maintenance
- Policy advocacy on behalf of Black business owners
- Civic engagement and voter education
Black Business Finance & Sustainability Hub
A comprehensive financial literacy program connecting Black entrepreneurs with the money management tools, funding strategies, and sustainability practices they need to thrive long-term.
- Money management and cash flow fundamentals
- Funding strategy and grant writing
- Credit education and business credit building
- Sustainable business practices
- Bookkeeping and tax preparation assistance
- Connections to local financial institutions
ECC Business Accelerator Circles
Quarterly peer-to-peer gatherings designed for accountability, growth, and community. Participants set goals, share wins, and build capacity alongside their business peers.
- Quarterly in-person gatherings
- Goal setting and accountability check-ins
- Wins sharing and community celebration
- Capacity building exercises
- Visioning and strategic planning
- Coaching from experienced professionals
ECC Capital & Credit Readiness Program
Monthly workshops on credit, capital access, and financial connections — equipping entrepreneurs with what they need to secure funding and build lasting business credit.
- Monthly workshops on credit and capital
- Bank and credit union partnership presentations
- Business credit fundamentals
- Funding pathways and loan readiness
- 1-on-1 financial coaching sessions
- Microloan access for qualifying members
Contracting & Certification Readiness Program
Helping Black business owners navigate certifications and contracting opportunities — from MBE and DBE certification to landing city, county, and corporate contracts.
- MBE, WBE, DBE, and ByBlack certification guidance
- Bid preparation and proposal writing
- Procurement matchmaking events
- RFP response training
- Strategies for landing government contracts
- Corporate supplier diversity connections
Supplier Showcase & Black Business Expo
Our high-energy annual showcase connecting Black entrepreneurs directly with consumers, corporate buyers, and civic leaders — driving partnership, visibility, and local economic circulation.
- Vendor showcasing and product/service sales
- Corporate buyer matchmaking
- Networking with civic and community leaders
- Partnership and collaboration opportunities
- Focus on keeping Black dollars local
- Community celebration of Black entrepreneurship
Ready to Engage?
Join the ECC Black Chamber community and access programs, events, and resources designed specifically for Black entrepreneurs in East Contra Costa County.