Commending the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Callsen and 14 co-sponsors

The resolution ceremonially commends the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation for five years of supporting Black-owned businesses and economic equity in Virginia, with no

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ441ER)

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution No. 441 (SJ441ER)

Purpose

SJ441ER is a ceremonial, non-binding resolution that commends the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation on its fifth anniversary. It recognizes and applauds the Foundation’s leadership, programs, and impact in supporting Black-owned businesses and economic equity in Virginia. The resolution does not authorize new programs or authorize spending; it functions as formal recognition by the General Assembly.

Key Provisions

The resolution State: The Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation has empowered and advocated for Black business owners for five years and has enhanced economic equity across Virginia.

Background and Evolution: The Foundation began in 2020 as the Virginia Black Business Directory and evolved into a nonprofit offering diverse programs and services in partnership with the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce.

Mission and Impact: The Foundation works to bridge gaps in access to capital, education, and networking opportunities; it emphasizes financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and community development; it serves underserved populations.

Milestone: Noted achievement of serving more than 2,700 businesses in its five-year history, contributing to economic empowerment, innovation, social equity, and sustainable growth.

Formal Recognition: The General Assembly, by resolution, commends the Foundation and directs the Clerk of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation.

Who Is Being Recognized

Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation, established 2020 as the Virginia Black Business Directory and now a thriving nonprofit organization.

The Foundation’s partnership with the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce to support minority-owned businesses.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduced: February 17, 2025.

Senate Action: Agreed to by the Senate on February 19, 2025.

House Action: Agreed to by the House of Delegates on February 20, 2025.

Enrolment: Enrolled as SJ441ER; bill text reflects the version passed by both chambers.

Patronage

Senate Patron: Pekarsky.

House Delegates (named in the record): Callsen, Clark, Cole, Cousins, Hope, Laufer, Lopez, Martinez, McQuinn, Mundon King, Rasoul, Shin, Ward, Watts.

Impact and Implications

This is a ceremonial acknowledgment with no statutory changes or fiscal obligations.

Provides formal public recognition that may enhance visibility and prestige for the Foundation and its partners.

Highlights the ongoing role of the Foundation in supporting Black-owned businesses and economic development in Virginia.