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OUR CHAMBER IS
BLACK HISTORY
Black-owned businesses have long played a pivotal role in the social and economic fabric of America. During the Civil Rights Movement, these businesses were not just centers of commerce but were crucial in supporting the fight for equality and justice. Many Black-owned businesses provided financial support to civil rights organizations, helping fund activities such as protests, sit-ins, and legal battles. These businesses offered jobs to African American individuals at a time when discrimination limited their employment opportunities elsewhere, helping to sustain families and communities.
Chamber Timeline
Following the historic March for Justice in June 2020—hosted by Victoria Jones’ nonprofit Forever Our Home—Jones established the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (SCBCC) on June 19, 2020. She enlisted Amber Baker, a trusted colleague from her nonprofit work, as the Chamber’s Vice President. By August 2020, the Chamber convened its inaugural Board of Directors meeting, bringing together diverse leaders from across Brevard County.
2021 – Laying the Foundation
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The Chamber’s first full year was dedicated to building a strong legal and organizational framework. Growth was modest but purposeful as the Chamber focused on establishing policies, procedures, and strategic direction.
2022 – Connecting and Celebrating Excellence
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In 2022, the Chamber launched its hallmark Back to Business Networking events, designed to connect and empower local Black-owned businesses. Chamber President Victoria Jones envisioned a platform to highlight and honor Black professionals, resulting in the Launching Black Excellence Awards Gala in August 2022. That same year, the Chamber partnered with Spectrum to provide complimentary commercials on News 13 for five Black-owned businesses on the Space Coast.
2023 – Expanding Reach and Advocacy
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The Chamber’s advocacy efforts grew significantly in 2023. It led its first delegation of Black leaders to Tallahassee for Black Chamber Day at the Capitol, organized by the Florida Association of Black Chambers of Commerce. Early in the year, SCBCC became members of both the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce, setting the stage for broader collaboration.
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President Victoria Jones was invited to discussions with the newly established Office of Cybersecurity in partnership with the U.S. Chambers, and in March she received the 4 Under 40 Award from LEAD Brevard for her contributions to economic development on the Space Coast.
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In June 2023, SCBCC hosted its first legislative conference, State of the Coast, at the Eastern Florida State College Student Union Hall in Melbourne. In July, Jones joined 80 Black leaders at the White House to engage with President Joe Biden on issues facing Black businesses nationwide.
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The Chamber’s second Launching Black Excellence Awards Gala took place in August 2023 during National Black Business Month. Former State Attorney Andrew Bain, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis, officiated the swearing‑in of the Board of Directors and President, further underscoring the Chamber’s growing influence.
2024 – Advocacy and Innovation
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Despite internal restructuring, the Chamber continued to thrive into 2024. It participated in Brevard Day with other area chambers and made its second visit to Tallahassee for Black Chamber Day, where it presented its first legislative agenda to state lawmakers. In May 2024, President Jones represented SCBCC at the Southern Economic Roundtable in Washington, D.C., aligning with other Black Chambers and businesses from across the Southeast.
The SCBCC celebrated 5 years of service on June 19, 2025, and remains dedicated to promoting economic growth, strengthening community ties, and advocating for Black excellence. The Chamber continues to expand member benefits, champion youth entrepreneurship through free student memberships, and host workshops on financial literacy, digital marketing, and leadership development.
Strong partnerships with local government agencies ensure that the voices of Black entrepreneurs are represented in key policy discussions. The Chamber is also developing a mobile app to deliver real-time updates on events, resources, and networking opportunities—further enhancing member engagement.
Reflecting on the journey, the Chamber's Founder, President & CEO Victoria Jones shared:
“We have achieved remarkable milestones thanks to the unwavering support of our members and partners. As we move forward, our focus remains on creating sustainable growth and fostering an inclusive business environment where everyone can thrive.”
The Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce is proudly launching business to a new level—continuing to serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in Brevard County and beyond.