Get Involved

The Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce’s members are the torchbearers of our mission to support and grow the black business community in Maryland.

The MBCC encourages its members to join our existing committees and work towards our combined goals. Members who join these committees assist with planning activities, event management, marketing, recruitment, fundraising, public relations, business development, and more.

As a member, you can join the committee mentioned below to play your part in advancing our cause.

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Legislative & Advocacy Committee

The Legislative & Advocacy Committee serves as MBCC’s voice on public policy, identifying and advancing legislative priorities that impact Black-owned businesses throughout Maryland. The Committee monitors proposed legislation, develops policy recommendations, and fosters strong relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and key stakeholders to promote a business environment where Black entrepreneurs can thrive.

Working in partnership with MBCC’s local Advisory Boards, the Committee helps ensure that legislative priorities are communicated consistently across the state while encouraging member engagement in the advocacy process. Through legislative briefings, policy discussions, advocacy events, and direct collaboration with public officials, the Committee empowers members to stay informed, influence policy, and advocate for meaningful change that strengthens Maryland’s Black business community.

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If you would like to get involved, contact us at

Marketing Committee

The Marketing Committee is responsible for building and executing the marketing strategy of the MBCC. This includes developing and implementing marketing initiatives and activities to increase awareness of the MBCC. The marketing committee is looking for individuals with expertise in communications, email marketing, graphic design, traditional marketing, event promotion, social media marketing, and website maintenance.

If you possess one or more of these skills, we encourage you to become a part of our marketing committee. To get involved, write to us at .

Membership Committee

The Membership Committee promotes the MBCC to business owners, organizations, and individuals. For this purpose, we require dynamic and outgoing individuals with great people skills and a shared desire to grow and promote the black business community in Maryland.

The functions of our membership committee include:

  • Raising awareness of the MBCC and its mission

  • Promote the benefits of signing up for an MBCC membership

  • Recruitment and orientation of new MBCC members

  • Identifying and addressing the needs, requirements, and issues of MBCC members

  • Attending MBCC events for current members and potential new members

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If you would like to get involved, contact us at

Fund Development Committee

The Fund Development Committee is responsible for strengthening the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce’s financial sustainability by supporting fundraising, sponsorship development, and grant initiatives. The committee works to identify and cultivate corporate, foundation, and individual funding partners, while helping ensure that fundraising efforts align with MBCC’s strategic priorities and long-term mission.

Committee members play an important role in expanding MBCC’s network of supporters by assisting with sponsorship outreach, grant readiness, donor engagement, and resource development. If you have experience or an interest in fundraising, grant writing, business development, philanthropy, or corporate partnerships, we encourage you to join the Fund Development Committee and help secure the resources that empower Maryland’s Black business community.

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Financial Services Affinity Group

The Financial Services Industries Affinity Group brings together MBCC members working in banking, accounting, insurance, financial planning, lending, and related financial services professions. The group serves as a forum for networking, relationship-building, and the exchange of industry insights while creating opportunities for collaboration that benefit Maryland’s business community.

In addition to connecting financial professionals, the group will help educate entrepreneurs and business owners through webinars, seminars, newsletter content, website resources, and other initiatives focused on financial literacy, access to capital, and business growth.

The group is chaired by Steward Smith, Vice President of Business Development at FSC First. Steward brings more than 20 years of business development and financial services experience, helping businesses identify financing solutions that align with their capital needs while leading outreach, marketing, and business engagement efforts throughout the region.

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Health and Wellness Affinity Group

The Health & Wellness Affinity Group is comprised of MBCC members working in healthcare, wellness, fitness, nutrition, mental health, coaching, and related fields. The group provides opportunities for professionals to connect, collaborate, and share resources that support both personal well-being and organizational success.

Through webinars, seminars, educational content, and community engagement initiatives, members will help promote healthier workplaces, stronger communities, and sustainable approaches to wellness for entrepreneurs and business leaders.

The group is chaired by Bemene Piaro, MPH, ACC, CPC, Founder and Principal Life Coach of The Wholeness Center in Germantown. Drawing on her background in public health, health education, community outreach, and coaching, Bemene helps individuals and organizations achieve greater clarity, confidence, and well-being through whole-person support and intentional growth. As Chair, she is committed to connecting health and wellness professionals across Maryland and expanding access to practical resources that strengthen businesses and communities alike.

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Young Professionals Network

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) is designed for emerging entrepreneurs and working professionals under 45 who are committed to advancing their careers, growing their businesses, and building meaningful professional relationships.

YPN provides a dynamic environment where ambitious professionals can connect with peers, exchange ideas, develop leadership skills, and gain access to opportunities that support both personal and professional success. Through networking events, educational programs, mentorship, and engagement with the broader Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce, members can build valuable relationships while strengthening their careers and businesses.

Mission: To empower Maryland’s emerging Black professionals and entrepreneurs through mentorship, professional development, leadership training, and Chamber-connected opportunities that accelerate career advancement, business growth, and long-term success.

Chair Emily Martin is a financial representative who pivoted from fashion to finance, bringing the same creativity, attention to detail, and client-first service from the runway to retirement planning. Having “lived many lives” across creative, entrepreneurial, and corporate roles, she draws on diverse experiences to offer fresh perspectives and practical solutions. Day to day, Emily works with minority-owned businesses and young families—helping protect income, build tax-efficient wealth, and plan for long-term stability. Focused on taking acting and delivering real results, she translates goals into clear, measurable plans so clients move from uncertainty to confidence.

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Advisory Board

The Advisory Board of our Chamber of Commerce consists of prominent business leaders and community members who provide guidance and support for the organization’s programs and initiatives. By joining, members have the opportunity to shape the future of the Chamber, offer advice on key issues affecting the business community, and identify new opportunities for growth and collaboration. Benefits include increased visibility, networking opportunities, and access to exclusive resources, all while supporting a vibrant and thriving business community.

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