The BCCGKC is a voluntary action and advocacy organization compromised of individuals and businesses which have come together for the primary purpose of advancing the commercial, financial, industrial, educational, preservation, and civic interest of the African American business community. The Chamber serves five county areas, which include Jackson, Wyandotte, Johnson, Clay, and Platte counties.

The overall mission of the Black Chamber is “to transfer the gains of the Civil Rights Era into meaningful opportunities for economic prosperity in all African American community and therefore the Kansas City metropolitan community as well.”

As with other chambers, this hefty goal strongly depends on our ability to attract and retain members composed mostly of Kansas City business owners, corporate managers, and civic leaders. To a degree, these goals for self-sufficiency are strongly dependent upon the success of an effective membership drive. Currently, two-thirds of the Chamber’s dues are derived from its small and medium size businesses.

From the beginning, the BCCGKC has struggles with every conceivable obstacle common to an organization with limited resources.

As a non-for-profit service organization, the BCCGKC is propelled primarily by volunteers. Officers and board members serve without pay. The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors steers policy decision and the overall direction of the Executive Director. In addition to its Executive Committee and Board, the BCCGKC also draws on the expertise of its membership through seven standing committees including a strong Business and Economic Development Committee.

Current on-going programs include: educational management seminars and workshops, financing option information, marketing services, referral services, networking opportunities, MBE/WBE city/state requirements, contract bid and planning room, cultural activities, tours, sites, and attractions of the urban core.