The Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce is an organization that is committed to empowering and educating local entrepreneurs to foster a thriving and sustainable business environment, and they will soon host their annual Black Business Excellence Gala. Now in its fourth year, the gala is a special opportunity to celebrate the diversity and dynamism of Savannah’s business community. This is the chamber’s signature fundraising event, and the elegant evening will include a red carpet reception and cocktail hour, a ceremony during which prestigious awards will be presented to exceptional local entrepreneurs and a gourmet three-course meal featuring African, Caribbean and soulful influences, among other things.

The theme for this year’s event is Elevate and Celebrate, acknowledging the myriad contributions of Black, minority and women entrepreneurs and the ways in which these business leaders uplift the local community.

“We want this event to be a platform for motivation and inspiration to businesses of all sizes. Whether you have been in business for one year, five years, 10 or 20-plus years, we want to see you continue to elevate and persevere in spite of all obstacles that may come your way,” said Tomeca McPherson, GSBCC board chair. “We celebrate you at every step and on every level throughout every milestone. So we’re celebrating you and we want to continue to elevate you and watch you succeed beyond your wildest dreams.”

The gala is expected to be an unforgettable evening honoring the remarkable achievements of local business owners and acknowledging the entrepreneurial spirit that flourishes in the community. In addition to the awards ceremony and exquisite dinner, there will be a silent auction with exclusive items and experiences available for bidding. The night will also include electrifying live entertainment evoking the rich cultural heritage of the Black community.

“The band we have joining us this year is the Happy Hour Band, which is a collaborative band that is a mixture of great musicians throughout the city of Savannah and the surrounding area. They join together as one to create one sound and . . . give you that good feel. They lay everything out on the floor despite all differences, backgrounds and musical styles to give their listeners a level of happiness they won’t soon forget,” said McPherson.

She encourages the public to come out and take part in this festive occasion, which presents a unique opportunity to congregate and celebrate with local professionals.

“The Greater Savannah Black Chamber annual gala is the place to be. It’s who’s who in Black business, as well as business in general. Everyone will be in the building. It’s a great networking opportunity that no one should miss. You never know who you might run into who could help propel your business to the next level,” she said.

The gala is just one of many touch points GSBCC has within the community. The chamber also offers monthly workshops and mixers to support business development in Savannah and surrounding areas, and all are welcome to attend.

“The Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce is not an organization just for Black business owners alone. Black businesses are the heart of our organization, but everyone is invited to join us,” McPherson expressed. “Whether it’s coming to one of our monthly mixers, workshops, conference calls, our annual gala or any of our events, we welcome you all because Black business is everyone’s business, and we must all collaborate to be successful.”

The GSBCC Black Business Excellence Gala will take place Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at The Armstrong Center, which is located at 13040 Abercorn St. Tickets, tables and sponsorships are currently available online. Visit gsbcc.org/calendar for more information.

This article appears in Connect Savannah | October, 2023.