The Business Leadership Council

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The mission of the Business Leadership Council is to influence equitable policies and business practices that increase economic opportunity for the betterment of the Black community. The Business Leadership Council was formed after several prominent corporate professionals and entrepreneurs came together to pool their resources and put forth a unified voice. The group realized that the African American business community needed a representative voice to advocate for economic parity, effective political representation and social issues affecting the African American community. The Business Leadership Council advocates to key government officials, top tier public and private corporations and government supported institutions about the importance of substantially increasing the business opportunities afforded African American business owners and corporate professionals who in turn will bring the jobs and contracts to the community.

As we recognize the 63rd anniversary of the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the Business Leadership C...
08/30/2026

As we recognize the 63rd anniversary of the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the Business Leadership Council reflects on the bold vision and collective action that helped shape a movement.

The demands of the 1963 March extended beyond civil rights—they called for economic opportunity, fair employment and greater access for Black Americans.

More than six decades later, we honor that legacy by continuing to champion Black leadership, economic advancement and opportunity in our communities.

Congratulations to BLC Member Kalia Coleman, Partner at Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP, on being recognized by Crain’s...
08/24/2026

Congratulations to BLC Member Kalia Coleman, Partner at Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP, on being recognized by Crain’s Chicago Business as a 2026 Notable Leader in Accounting, Consulting & Law.

This well-deserved recognition celebrates Kalia’s leadership, professional excellence, and continued impact across Chicago’s legal and business community.

The BLC is proud to celebrate this outstanding achievement. Congratulations, Kalia!

This Saturday, the Chicago Culture Ball brings together leaders, innovators, and changemakers for an evening celebrating...
08/12/2026

This Saturday, the Chicago Culture Ball brings together leaders, innovators, and changemakers for an evening celebrating Chicago’s culture, creativity, and impact.

The Business Leadership Council is proud to have BLC CEO Keiana Barrett-Williams, alongside BLC members Keeana Barber and Kareem Edwards, recognized among this year’s distinguished honorees.

Hosted by fellow BLC member Jeff Osuji, CEO of Eventnoire, the Chicago Culture Ball will spotlight individuals helping shape Chicago through leadership, business, culture, and community impact.

Saturday, August 15
Chicago Culture Ball

We invite the BLC community to join us for an evening celebrating the people, leadership, and culture that continue to move Chicago forward.
Ticket link below.
https://www.eventnoire.com/events/cultureball26-2

This past week, the Business Leadership Council hosted our Q3 General Membership Meeting, bringing members together for ...
08/09/2026

This past week, the Business Leadership Council hosted our Q3 General Membership Meeting, bringing members together for an insightful conversation centered on Access to Capital.

We extend our sincere thanks to our exceptional panelists, Monica Rubio of Old National Bank, Andrew Berdin of BMO Harris Bank, Jason Mercer of Cleveland Avenue, and Kenneth Hughes of Fifth Third Bank, for sharing their expertise, perspectives, and valuable insights with the BLC community. We also thank our moderator, Shaunte’ Robinson of J.P. Morgan Chase, for guiding such a meaningful and engaging conversation.

The room spoke volumes—an elegant space filled with accomplished, like-minded business leaders committed to building connections, exchanging knowledge, and creating greater opportunities for growth.

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us and continues to strengthen the BLC community through collaboration and leadership.

This summer, the Business Leadership Council was proud to welcome and recognize two exceptional collegiate professionals...
08/04/2026

This summer, the Business Leadership Council was proud to welcome and recognize two exceptional collegiate professionals who served as BLC interns. Their talent, dedication, and fresh perspectives made a meaningful contribution to our work, and we are sincerely grateful for the impact they made throughout the summer.

Without question, they represent the next generation of visionary leaders. We have every confidence that their futures are incredibly bright, and we look forward to watching them continue to excel and make a lasting impact in their respective fields.

August is National Black Business Month, and the BLC is proud to amplify the brilliance of our members.Congratulations t...
08/02/2026

August is National Black Business Month, and the BLC is proud to amplify the brilliance of our members.

Congratulations to BLC member Wheeler Coleman on being named Chair of the Northern Illinois University Foundation!

This well-deserved appointment reflects Wheeler’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to higher education, and dedication to creating stronger communities. We celebrate this exciting milestone and look forward to the lasting impact of his continued service and vision.

Congratulations, Wheeler!

Business Leadership Council PresentsBlack Women’s Expo | Main Stage, McCormick PlaceFriday, July 31st 1:30 PM – 2:30 PMM...
07/28/2026

Business Leadership Council Presents
Black Women’s Expo | Main Stage, McCormick Place
Friday, July 31st 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Minding Our Business: Part II
The Wealth Playbook

Building Businesses. Securing Capital. Creating Legacy.
BWe 2026 - The Black Women’s Expo Chicago
Panelists:
Corliss Garner – Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Old National Bank
Kimberly Haney – Deputy Chief Credit Officer, First Independence Bank
Keeana Barber – CEO, WDB Marketing
Tiffany Odeh,  Senior Community Reinvestment Outreach Manager, BMO Harris
Calmetta Coleman. Chief Operating Officer, Chicago Urban League
Sibyl Holloway, Founder of SIB’s Breakfast Club and Co-owner Crossover Grill
Moderator: Keiana Barrett-Williams. CEO, Business Leadership Council

The Business Leadership Council proudly congratulates RaMona Westbrook, Founder and Principal of Brook Architecture and ...
07/14/2026

The Business Leadership Council proudly congratulates RaMona Westbrook, Founder and Principal of Brook Architecture and a valued BLC member, on her nomination by Mayor Brandon Johnson to serve on the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Board of Commissioners.

RaMona’s nomination is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional leadership, distinguished career, and unwavering commitment to shaping stronger communities. With more than three decades of experience in architecture, planning, and community development, she has consistently championed thoughtful design, sustainable development, and equitable access to quality housing.

Her extensive expertise in the built environment, coupled with her passion for creating vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods, will bring an important perspective to the CHA as it advances its mission to expand affordable housing and improve the quality of life for Chicago residents.

The BLC is proud to endorse RaMona’s nomination and is confident she will serve with distinction, integrity, and vision. We look forward to the meaningful impact she will make in strengthening neighborhoods, advancing housing opportunities, and helping shape a more equitable future for our city.

Congratulations to BLC Members Natasha Jenkins & Dee Atkins on Being Nominated  to Serve on the Northern Illinois Transi...
07/08/2026

Congratulations to BLC Members Natasha Jenkins & Dee Atkins on Being Nominated  to Serve on the Northern Illinois Transit Authority(NITA) board.

The Business Leadership Council proudly applauds Attorney Natasha Jenkins of Clark Hill and Dee Atkins, Chief of Community Engagement and Equity of Thresholds on being nominated by Mayor Brandon Johnson to serve on the new regional transit board, NITA, which will oversee mass transit throughout the Chicago region.

This distinguished opportunity reflects your leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing our communities through public service. Your voices and vision will help shape the future of regional transportation for generations to come.

Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement. We are proud to support your leadership and look forward to the lasting impact you will make.

Joy to the World- BLC Members continue to add value to proportions.Congratulations to our very own Joy Williams on a rem...
07/07/2026

Joy to the World- BLC Members continue to add value to proportions.

Congratulations to our very own Joy Williams on a remarkable string of accomplishments! From award-winning kitchen and furniture designs to being featured in Luxe Magazine and published in leading interior design books, Joy continues to set the standard for excellence.

We’re proud to celebrate your success and can’t wait to see what’s next. Congratulations, Joy!

Address

150 N Michigan Avenue Suite 2400
Chicago, IL
60601

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+13124022171

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