Mission Statement
Our mission is to ensure that Black businesses WIN. We exist to support, develop, and advocate for Black entrepreneurs across Northeast Ohio by expanding access to capital, connections, and opportunity. Through intentional relationships, culturally responsive programming, and strategic partnerships, we remove barriers, amplify voices, and equip business owners to build, grow, and sustain successful enterprises. We are committed to strengthening businesses from the inside out so our communities can thrive, circulate wealth, and create lasting economic power for generations to come. |
Vision Statement
Our vision is to be the leading engine for Black business growth and economic empowerment in Northeast Ohio and a national model for building wealth from within. We envision a future where Black entrepreneurs are fully resourced, highly visible, and deeply connected to the networks, capital, and markets needed to scale. A future where Black owned businesses are not just surviving, but leading, driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping the economic landscape of their communities. Through our work, we are building an ecosystem where collaboration replaces competition, access replaces barriers, and generational wealth becomes the standard, not the exception. |
Our History |
| Founded in 1996 in Cleveland, Ohio, The Presidents’ Council (TPC) was created to advance the growth and success of African American-owned businesses. What began as a collective effort to connect Black entrepreneurs to opportunities has grown into a leading organization focused on economic empowerment and generational wealth in Northeast Ohio. From the beginning, TPC has been rooted in the belief that strong businesses create strong communities. The organization was established to remove barriers, open doors, and ensure that Black business owners had access to the resources, relationships, and support needed to succeed. Through advocacy, mentorship, and strategic connections, TPC has consistently worked to elevate and strengthen the Black business ecosystem. Today, The Presidents’ Council represents over 100 African American-owned businesses that collectively employ more than 4,000 individuals across the region. This network reflects both economic impact and a shared commitment to building wealth from within the community. To expand its mission, TPC developed key initiatives that support both current and future generations of leaders. The Presidents’ Council Foundation focuses on education, mentorship, and community development. Programs such as PC Scholars provide high school students with exposure, guidance, and tools to prepare for future success, while the Emerging Entrepreneurs program supports individuals as they begin and grow their business journeys. In addition, The Presidents’ Council Business Chamber was established to provide a formal structure for advocacy, networking, and access to mentorship. The Chamber strengthens the collective voice of Black businesses while creating pathways to capital, partnerships, and new market opportunities. Rooted in Cleveland, The Presidents’ Council continues to serve as an engine for Black business growth and economic empowerment. By connecting entrepreneurs to capital, community, and opportunity, TPC remains committed to ensuring that Black businesses win and that wealth is created for generations to come. |
Our Commitment Goes Beyond Business |
Our commitment to the African American community goes beyond the bottom line. We are dedicated to building a stronger, more equitable, and more prosperous future for all. By supporting Black-owned businesses, empowering individuals, advocating for positive change, and celebrating our rich heritage we are working to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive
empower communities, and build a legacy of equity that lasts for generations” - The Presidents’ Council |
Who We Are
Championing Black Entrepreneurs & Building Generational Wealth
For nearly 30 years, The Presidents’ Council has been the leading voice, advocate, and resource hub for Black business owners and professionals across Northeast Ohio.
Our Journey
Founded in 1996, The Presidents’ Council began as a network of successful African American business leaders. Over the years, we’ve grown into a multi-entity ecosystem committed to community empowerment and wealth creation.
Our Milestones:
- 1996 – The Presidents’ Council LLC was founded
- 2000 – The Presidents’ Council Foundation launched
- 2015 – Business Chamber was introduced
- 2017 – Policy and Advocacy Committee (PAC) was established
Our Mission
To advance Black economic development by investing in Black entrepreneurs, strengthening our business ecosystem, and advocating for inclusive, equitable economic growth.
What We Do:
- Equip Black-owned businesses with the tools to grow and scale
- Facilitate access to capital and procurement opportunities
- Connect members through a thriving, supportive chamber community
- Cultivate the next generation of leaders through youth programming
- Champion policies and partnerships that close the racial wealth gap
Learn more about becoming a member
Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
At The Presidents’ Council, we believe economic empowerment is inseparable from racial equity.
Our mission is rooted in the advancement of Black-owned businesses—but our vision is broader: a future where every entrepreneur, regardless of background, has equitable access to opportunity, capital, and community.
We work intentionally to dismantle systemic barriers, amplify historically marginalized voices, and create inclusive pathways for Black business success. From our youth programming to our capital readiness initiatives, DEI is not a department—it’s the foundation of everything we do.
We proudly lead with equity, advocate with purpose, and build with community.
Our Impact
- 💼 200+ Businesses Supported
Through mentorship, programming, and direct services. - 👥 100+ Active Members
Representing a broad range of industries and expertise. - 🎓50+ Youth Scholars
Empowered through the PC Scholars Program since 2000. - 💰$+ Capital Accessed
Helping entrepreneurs secure funding to scale.
Meet the Team
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Are More Than Buzzwords
Equity in Access
It’s not just about who’s in the room, but who has the opportunity to thrive
Representation That Reflects Our Values
We are an all female, Black lead team, committed to modeling what inclusive leadership look like.
Systemic Change, Not Symbolic Gestures
We dismantle barriers and invest in programs that unlick untapped talent and potential
“DEI is not just what we say; it’s what we do.” – The Presidents’ Council
What DEI Looks Like at The Presidents’ Council
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Mentorship | Sponsorship |
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Supplier Diversity Initiatives | Policy & Advocacy Work |
Our Community
More Than Just Business
At The Presidents’ Council, our commitment goes far beyond business support. We’re helping build an ecosystem of economic empowerment, leadership, cultural celebration, and civic advocacy that uplifts the African-American community.”
Our Impact in Action
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Economic Empowerment Beyond Business Workforce Development Initiatives Talent Pipeline & Networking Financial Literacy Workshops | Cultivating Future Leaders PC Scholars Scholarships Mentorship Programs |
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Community Advocacy & Partnership Policy & Equity Advocacy Nonprofit Collaborations Civic Engagement Campaigns | Celebrating Our Culture Black Excellence Spotlights Arts, Heritage & History Signature Community Events |
Serving Northeast Ohio’s Black-Owned Businesses
