The District-based U.S. Black Chambers Inc., (USBC) announced Oct. 30 the historic acquisition of the former Black Entertainment Television (BET) campus, a 7.86-acre landmark once home to the media empire of Robert L. Johnson, named by Forbes as the first Black billionaire in the U.S. in 2001.
With an investment of more than $38 million, the organization is set to transform this site into what will be known as the USBC Innovation Center. The acquisition marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the future of Black enterprise.
The new campus will serve as a national engine for business growth, innovation, and community impact rooted in the District, extending its influence nationwide.
The USBC has been in operation for nearly two decades as an advocate for African American chambers of commerce and Ron Busby Sr., the president and CEO of the nonprofit, said the acquisition is an evolutionary step.
“When I reflect on the journey of the U.S. Black Chambers over the past 16 years, I see a history of resilience, vision and progress,” said Busby. “This campus is the next chapter of that story–not just a building, but a living symbol of what happens when we claim our space, own our future and build institutions that outlast us. The USBC Innovation Campus is about more than today’s entrepreneurs; it’s about ensuring that generations to come inherit a place where their ideas, voices and businesses can thrive.”
The acquisition was made from an affiliate of Douglas Development, a District-based real estate firm. In addition to the USBC headquarters, the facility will contain offices for various types of businesses.
Corey Arnez Griffin, chairman of the board of directors for the Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce, praised USBC’s move.
“This acquisition makes a powerful statement about the enduring legacy of one of the most successful Black-owned enterprises in our history,” he said. “It renews the promise and the possibility of Black entrepreneurship and enterprise.”