We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit, entrepreneurial organization focused on innovative ways to grow minority businesses and a skilled workforce. Our mission is to educate and empower those wishing to achieve and maintain financial independence for themselves and the community. The Black Business Alliance (BBA) was formed in Bloomington/Normal Illinois in 1997, because of the difficulty minority businesses experienced finding business start-up support. The business community was not equipped to provide the direction, training or mentoring requested by minority entrepreneurs. In addition, mainstream businesses were not providing the products or services regularly requested by the minority population. In 2013, a BBA chapter was established in Peoria, Illinois as similar concerns were also expressed. BBA bridged the gap. The Black Business Alliance founders Denise and Garry Moore, Dr. Denise Davison, PhD formerly of Illinois State University and Gil Chinnery (aka Dr. Gilly – DJ) of State Farm, filed the necessary documents that lead to the non-profit designation enjoyed today, The first community interest meeting was held and attracted a wide variety of small business owners, entrepreneurs. Investors and supporters. Those attending expressed enthusiasm for an organization that would support and promote their culture. In both Peoria and Bloomington, the BBA has maintained its goals of education and collaboration as the foundation for nurturing a healthy business climate. The BBA continues to support minority business development and an appreciation for diversity in our community. Membership in the Black business Alliance remains strong and increasingly diverse as business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals appreciate the educational opportunities, training, networking and partnerships formed. Since its formation, the Peoria chapter has added WPNV 106.3 LP FM (community radio station), the Minority Business Development Center, Business Incubator, the online Minority Business Directory, and a host of programs and services to its suite of services and the Bloomington chapter has added WXRJ 94.9 LP FM, to its suite of services. We encourage you to financially support the growth and development of small businesses in our community.
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