About MDBCC

The Metro Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce stands as a vanguard of economic empowerment and social justice, with a laser focus on networking, youth development and comprehensive support for emerging adults in Decatur, Illinois. This pioneering organization tackles systemic inequities head-on by cultivating a pipeline of skilled, empowered young professionals from marginalized communities. Recognizing the inextricable link between economic opportunity and crime prevention, the Chamber implements transformative initiatives that disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline and foster pathways to prosperity.

Through innovative apprenticeship programs, entrepreneurial incubators, and targeted skills development, the Chamber equips youth and adults with the tools to transcend generational poverty and become agents of positive change. Crucially, the Chamber extends its impact through robust job training programs, seamlessly connecting citizens to essential counseling services, and facilitating job placements, thus addressing both the professional and personal dimensions of economic empowerment. By addressing the root causes of economic disparities, including structural racism and lack of access to capital, the Chamber catalyzes change and community development. Its holistic approach not only nurtures individual potential but also fortifies the entire ecosystem of Black-owned businesses, creating a multiplier effect that reverberates through Decatur’s economy, ultimately forging a more equitable and resilient future for all.