Meet our amazing team.

Our Staff

We Support Oakland Businesses

OAACC was established in 2003. We are a private non-profit organization whose mission is to advance economic opportunity and strengthen Oakland’s Black business community.

We provide a number of services for our business associates and members including access to workshops, business development opportunities and advocacy. Members may also take advantage of business advising, notary and certificate of origin services

oakland-african-american-chamber_cathy_adams

Cathy D. Adams

President & CEO

Petra Brady

Director of Community Engagement

Director of Technology & Ambassador Relations

Petra Brady

Director of Membership

Karriem Abdul Al-Bari

Developer

Samantha Williams

Samantha Williams

Samantha Williams

Newsletter Editor

Tracy L. Tate

Bookkeeper

Angelah Hackney

Office Assistant

WE’RE THE BEST IN THE WEST!

We address economic disparities, while promoting Black economic empowerment, and cultivating economic development throughout the Black community. We understand that our business owners are a vital part of the community.  We foster community by promoting cultural awareness, celebrating Black heritage and achievements, and building solidarity. 

We create events, programs, and initiatives that celebrate Black culture, history, and entrepreneurship.  And we tailor our programs and services to address the unique needs and challenges faced by Black-owned businesses. Services we offer include minority business certification assistance, access to capital programs, mentorship programs specifically for Black professionals, and workshops on topics relevant to Black business owners. 

  1. Networking Opportunities: Chambers provide a platform for business owners to connect with each other, fostering valuable relationships that can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and referrals.
  2. Visibility and Exposure: Membership often comes with opportunities to promote your business through chamber events, newsletters, directories, and social media channels, increasing your visibility within the local business community.
  3. Advocacy and Representation: Chambers advocate for the interests of small businesses at the local, regional, and sometimes national levels, representing their members’ concerns to government bodies, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
  4. Community Involvement: Membership in a chamber demonstrates your commitment to the local community, which can enhance your company’s reputation and credibility among consumers and other businesses.
  5. Cost Savings and Discounts: Many chambers negotiate discounts and special offers on essential business services.
  6. Voice in Decision Making: By being an OAACC member your voice shapes the chamber’s priorities and initiatives, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed effectively by city government.

We are committed to helping you promote, sustain, and grow your business.

Dear New Member:
Welcome to the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce.

In the coming year, we look forward to partnering with you to create a favorable business environment that supports small business development and closes the growing wealth gap in Oakland.

We are proud to walk alongside you as your “partner in prosperity.” We urge you to stay involved and create meaningful business relationships with other members.

Let’s thrive together!

Cathy D. Adams, President & CEO

OAACC Vision

We envision an inclusive and thriving local business community that supports and values the contributions of its Black-owned businesses.

Strategic Objectives

We envision an inclusive and thriving local business community that supports and values the contributions of its Black-owned businesses.

Opportunities

We Advocate on behalf of the business community and create sustainable jobs.

Annual Reports

The annual report to shareholders is a document used by most public companies to disclose corporate information to their shareholders. It is usually a state-of-the-company report, including an opening letter from the Chief Executive Officer, financial data, results of operations, market segment information, new product plans, subsidiary activities, and research and development activities on future programs. Reporting companies must send annual reports to their shareholders when they hold annual meetings to elect directors. Under the proxy rules, reporting companies are required to post their proxy materials, including their annual reports, on their company websites.

We offer you an insider’s look by reviewing our progress by clicking the links below.

2022 Annual Report

2021 Annual Report 

Our Ambassadors Program

Ambassadors perform a wide variety of duties in the Oakland African-American Chamber, but their main function is to help promote the Chamber, welcome new Members to the Chamber, and make Chamber events successful and enjoyable for everyone. In addition, Ambassadors facilitate member-to-member communication, support and encourage member engagement, and build the brand, knowledge, and familiarity of the Oakland African-American Chamber in the local business community and beyond.  

The benefits of being an Oakland African-American Chamber of Commerce Ambassador is access to Chamber members, complimentary access to most Chamber events and networking opportunities, insight and perspective into the local Oakland business community, and a fun way to engage with local businesses. Become an ambassador Today!

Meet our leaders!

OAACC History

We are stronger together when we are focused on one goal.

Chamber Mission

Devoted to community support with a diverse support system.