Voice of Business Blog

While it is both difficult and challenging to address the many wrongs and inequities that have occurred throughout our history, it is so encouraging to witness so much dedication, hard work, and collaboration today that is focused on addressing these historical issues. While none of us can undo the past, all of us can build a better future for everyone.

Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is a convener, seeking to bring together organizations and people to maximize our collective impact. Today, we are excited to work with corporate partners, government entities, and community organizations to find ways to uplift the underrepresented groups who have faced enduring barriers.

We are proud to work with Monroe County, COMIDA, and MCIDC to recognize the newly certified minority- and woman-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) in Rochester, and commend their efforts to encourage increased participation of minority and women-owned businesses in County contracting. To further this partnership and reaffirm our commitment to the support of diverse businesses, we will be offering one year of complimentary membership to any business that obtained MWBE certification in 2023 and is not already a member of Greater Rochester Chamber.

In addition, Greater Rochester Chamber works with our region’s largest employer, the University of Rochester, on the Upstate New York Supplier Diversity Summit each year. This Summit serves as a pivotal platform for diverse-owned businesses to gain valuable business insights, as well as network with other diverse MWBE owners and changemakers at notable corporations in our region.

While we are proud to connect over 1,300+ member organizations throughout the Greater Rochester region, this work can also be done by small business leaders like you. Connecting with other MWBEs in our community is a way to take your future into your own hands. Meet fellow diverse business leaders, build relationships, and find synergies to help each other grow. Greater Rochester Chamber’s member directory has resources to find other MWBEs, and Monroe County’s MWBE Certification listings are available to open the door.

While discussing partnerships and building bridges, we would like to thank our program partner, Insero & Co. CPAs, LLP, for helping bring the inaugural MWBE Awards program to Greater Rochester. Additional thanks to our sponsors for their support and steadfast commitment to recognizing diverse business success. Congratulations to the fifty businesses being honored with our first annual Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards, and to the 231 newly certified MWBEs! We are proud of your success and contributions to our region and are excited to see your future growth.

It’s time to build bridges. We are stronger together, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Greater Rochester and all its people.

This column originally appeared in the 2024 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards Publication on 5.2.24.