Oklahoma City Black Chamber Foundation Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Oklahoma City Black Chamber Foundation (OKCBCC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Black and minority-owned businesses and economic interests across central Oklahoma. Established to serve as an economic and professional resource, the Foundation focuses on sharing resources, building relationships, and advocating for equal opportunity and equitable outcomes.

Mission and Vision

The Foundation's mission is to empower Black and minority-owned businesses and economic interests across central Oklahoma by sharing resources, building relationships, and advocating for equal opportunity and equitable outcomes. Its vision is to create an environment where Black and minority-owned businesses not only survive but thrive, with access to the resources, partnerships, and advocacy they need to compete on every level.

Primary Area of Focus

The Foundation primarily focuses on economic development, business education, legislative advocacy, and community engagement to support Black and minority entrepreneurs in central Oklahoma. It offers programs and services designed to foster business growth, financial literacy, and leadership development.

Industry Significance

As a key player in Oklahoma City's business ecosystem, the OKCBCC addresses the unique challenges faced by Black and minority-owned businesses. By providing tailored support and resources, the Foundation contributes to the diversification and strengthening of the local economy, promoting inclusivity and equitable growth.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Economic Empowerment: Facilitate access to resources and opportunities that enable Black and minority-owned businesses to grow and succeed.

• Advocacy: Champion policies and initiatives that promote equal opportunity and equitable outcomes for minority entrepreneurs.

• Community Engagement: Build and strengthen relationships within the community to foster collaboration and mutual support.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Business Education: Offer workshops, seminars, and training programs focused on financial literacy, marketing strategies, and business management.

• Legislative Advocacy: Engage in policy advocacy to address systemic barriers and promote favorable conditions for minority businesses.

• Networking Opportunities: Organize events and forums that connect entrepreneurs with potential partners, investors, and customers.

Key Technologies Utilized

The Foundation leverages digital platforms and social media to disseminate information, host virtual events, and engage with members. This includes utilizing websites, email newsletters, and social media channels to communicate effectively and provide resources.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

The Foundation primarily targets Black and minority entrepreneurs in central Oklahoma, focusing on urban and underserved communities where access to resources and opportunities may be limited.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a nonprofit organization, the OKCBCC relies on a combination of membership dues, donations, grants, and fundraising events to support its operations and programs. Specific financial details, including total funds raised and recent funding rounds, are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors and Donors

The Foundation receives support from various community partners, local businesses, and philanthropic organizations committed to economic development and racial equity. Notable supporters include the Arnall Family Foundation, which awarded a grant of $25,950 to support the Chamber's initiatives.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized to support programs and services such as business education workshops, networking events, advocacy efforts, and community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering economic empowerment and growth for Black and minority-owned businesses.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Initiatives

• Scholarship Program: The Foundation offers scholarships to students pursuing higher education, aiming to invest in the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. For instance, in 2025, two scholarships of $1,500 each were awarded to deserving students.

• Business Education Workshops: Regularly scheduled workshops and seminars focus on topics such as financial literacy, marketing strategies, and business management to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills.

• Networking Events: Organized events provide opportunities for members to connect with potential partners, investors, and customers, fostering collaboration and business growth.

Stages of Development

These programs are in various stages of development, with ongoing efforts to expand and enhance their reach and impact within the community.

Target Conditions

The initiatives aim to address challenges such as limited access to capital, lack of business education, and systemic barriers faced by Black and minority entrepreneurs.

Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for program milestones are not publicly disclosed; however, the Foundation continues to assess and adjust its initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

The Foundation utilizes a proprietary membership management system to streamline communication, event registration, and resource sharing among members.

Significant Scientific Methods

While not a technology-driven organization, the Foundation employs data-driven approaches to assess community needs, measure program effectiveness, and inform strategic decisions.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Currently, the Foundation does not publicly disclose the use of AI-driven capabilities in its operations.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Dr. Carlos M. Robinson, MBA, Ed.D. – President & CEO

Dr. Robinson brings over 15 years of executive leadership experience spanning workforce development, higher education, nonprofit management, and strategic community partnerships. He was appointed as the Foundation's first full-time President and CEO in August 2025.

• L. Patrice Bell – Chief Operating Officer

Ms. Bell serves as the Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the Foundation's daily operations and ensuring the effective implementation of its programs and initiatives.

Board of Directors

• Masood Abdul-Haqq – Chair

An author, community organizer, and speaker, Mr. Abdul-Haqq provides strategic direction and leadership to the Foundation.

• Dr. Teara Flagg Lander – Vice Chair

Founding Executive Director at the University of Colorado-Denver, Dr. Lander brings expertise in higher education and community engagement.

• Dr. Romel Muex-Pullen – Secretary

Deputy Superintendent of Instruction at the Oklahoma State Department of Education, Dr. Muex-Pullen contributes insights into educational initiatives.

• Devon Smith-Dunn – Treasurer

A Financial Analyst at Love's Travel Stop and Country Stores, Ms. Smith-Dunn manages the Foundation's financial strategies.

• Zo Apetor

Affiliated with Pickbury Investments and the Districts Attorney's Council, Mr. Apetor offers expertise in investment and legal affairs.

• Spencer Browne

Community Affairs Manager at OG+E, Mr. Browne focuses on community relations and engagement.

• Lindsay Echols

Executive Director of Student Affairs at the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, Ms. Echols contributes to educational initiatives.

• Shalondra Harrison

An Independent Consultant, Ms. Harrison provides strategic guidance on various projects.

• Anthony Humphery

Strategic Account Specialist at Cox Business, Mr. Humphery offers insights into business development and partnerships.

• Natalie Poole

Meeting & Event Planning Engineer at Exceptional Occasions LLC, Ms. Poole coordinates events and programs.

• Dr. Markus Smith

Founder & CEO of The Markus Smith Real Estate, Dr. Smith brings expertise in real estate and business development.

• DesJean Jones

President/CEO of Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. (OIC), Ms. Jones focuses on workforce development.

• Jonathan M. Hall

CEO of Jonathan M. Hall Consulting, LLC, Mr. Hall provides strategic consulting services.

• Tiffani Veal

Assistant Site Director AC/BTC at Metro Technology Centers, Ms. Veal contributes to educational and training initiatives.

Leadership Changes

In August 2025, Dr. Carlos M. Robinson was appointed as the Foundation's first full-time President and CEO, succeeding longtime Executive Director Joanne Davis, who retired after serving since February 2020.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for supporting Black and minority-owned businesses in Oklahoma City is characterized by a growing emphasis on economic empowerment and inclusivity. Organizations like the OKCBCC play a crucial role in addressing systemic barriers and providing resources to underserved communities.

Competitor Analysis

• Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce (BWSCC): Based in Tulsa, BWSCC focuses on empowering Black businesses through education, legislative advocacy, and economic development.

• The State Chamber Research Foundation: While not exclusively focused on minority businesses, this organization engages in broader economic and business research that impacts the regional market landscape.