Madison’s Black Chamber of Commerce recently released the first-of-its kind Black Business Directory featuring an alphabetized listing of over 200 black-owned businesses in Dane County.

“The directory is an enormous resource for the community. You’ll be able to find a wide range of businesses offering all types of services and products,” says Aaron Perry, president of the Black Chamber of Commerce. “The sheer number may be a surprise to most people but I think it shows the breadth and depth of Dane County’s black community and the growing number of entrepreneurs that contribute to the county’s success.”

Madison Black Chamber of Commerce President Aaron Perry
Madison Black Chamber of Commerce President Aaron Perry

The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, originally established in 2004 as the African American Black Business Association (AABBA), is a volunteer-based organization that exists to promote, advocate, empower, lead, empower and build community support for black-owned businesses. The mission of the Black Chamber is to empower and engage Madison’s black community in the region’s economic development by supporting the establishment and growth of black businesses and black leadership, the employment of black people and to promote the power and impact of black commerce.

In addition to listing black-owned businesses, the directory also lists 55 African American organizations, 24 black churches and 14 published black authors. This brings the listings to almost 300 and makes the directory an invaluable tool that offers readers a one-stop place to shop with businesses in Dane County and engage with the county’s leading black-led institutions.

“These businesses create jobs and generate taxes. Together they form a core part of the economic infrastructure of Madison,” says Perry. “We want people to patronize these businesses, so that consumer dollars are recycled in our community and to help these businesses grow and thrive.”

The directory is being distributed in the community through a mass mailing to individuals, public officials and civic organizations. There is a limited number of copies available. If you would like to receive a copy please e-mail your name, and mailing address to [email protected], the Chamber’s distribution center.