This year’s U.S. Black Chambers (USBC) “Chamber of the Year” awardee is the African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE (AACC), receiving the honor during the 2025 USBC National Conference, July 30-Aug. 1 in the District.
Phillip W. Dunn, USBC chamber and business engagement manager, said the AACC was selected for this prestigious award out of 176 Black Chambers of Commerce across the United States because of its “‘excellent programming, remarkable advocacy, their significant growth in membership and their unparalleled commitment to the Black business ecosystem.”
“On behalf of the AACC’s membership and board of directors, we are incredibly humbled and honored to receive this recognition from our partners in progress at the USBC Inc.,” said AACC President and CEO Regina A. Hairston. “We know that the Greater Philadelphia region’s Black business community as a whole is greater than the sum of its parts. That’s why when I became president five years ago, I set out to address the systemic barriers far too many Black-owned businesses continue to face through policy reform, increasing access to social capital, and the power of coming together as a collective. This recognition is not only a win for the AACC, but also for our members and our region’s larger Black business ecosystem.”
With achievements such as hosting former President Joseph Biden at an event and successfully advocating for the reduction of Philadelphia’s Business Income and Receipts Tax, Ron Busby Sr., USBC president and CEO, said AACC, under the leadership of Hairston, deserves the recognition.
“The African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE sets the standard for what it means to uplift and advocate for Black-owned businesses,” said Busby. “Being named Chamber of the Year is a celebration of their unwavering commitment to the community and a reminder of the power we have when we work together. The USBC is proud to stand with the AACC and will continue to support their work to grow businesses, create jobs, and build lasting wealth in Black communities.”