Event Recap: HV Regional Launch for the UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce

The UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce (USNYBCC) hosted their Hudson Valley Regional Membership Launch Party at Essie’s Restaurant in Poughkeepsie, New York last night. Community members and local business owners came together to celebrate the Chamber’s expansion into the region and meet with others that support the mission. Check out the photos!

Focused on expanding the economic footprint and advocating for black and minority businesses throughout Upstate New York, USNYBCC President and CEO, Anthony Gaddy, is working to set up a statewide network of business owners to support community and growth. The launch of the Hudson Valley chapter is the next step in growing membership, already at 60 after only two years running.

Anthony started out the program by welcoming guests and introducing Kristin Cash-Holland, a representative of Upstate Capital, who co-hosted the event. Upstate Capital was the Chamber’s first Hudson Valley member and is a supporter of their mission.

Johnny LeHane, Head of Growth Strategy at Accel7, an early-stage growth accelerator based in the Hudson Valley, and Managing Partner at the Hudson Valley Startup Fund, talked about the need for the Chamber’s services in the region stating how important diversity is to maintaining a thriving ecosystem.

Brandon Walker, owner and Executive Chef of Essie’s Restaurant our event host, talked about his involvement with the launch and his vision for a collaborative network of like-minded people to bounce ideas off of and reach out to for advisement or new ventures.

For more information about membership benefits of the UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce, please visit https://www.usnybcc.org/. See the event photos here.