Minority Business Alliance
The Charlottesville Chamber Minority Business Alliance (MBA) convenes, supports, and promotes *minority-owned businesses through strategic partnerships and community wealth building initiatives. MBA holds a variety of events including collaborative programs and their annual MBA Gala.
The 2026 meeting schedule will be announced shortly. Regular meetings are free for Chamber members and $20 for non-members.
Connect with MBA through the Chamber's newsletter, explore the MBA Member Directory, or join the conversation on Facebook.
*A minority-owned business is a business that is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by individuals of African, Asian, Hispanic, or Native American descent.
Annual MBA Events
Minority Business Alliance Annual Gala
The MBA Gala, held each fall, brings the community together for an elegant evening of celebration and inspiration. This signature event honors leaders who have championed minority-owned businesses, presents the prestigious J.F. Bell Sr. Vanguard Award, and celebrates recipients of the celebrates recipients of the United Way and MBA Business Development Grants.
Support the Minority Business Alliance in its mission to strengthen and grow minority-owned businesses in our community. Contributions can be made online via credit card or PayPal using the button below. Please select "Use this donation for Chamber Minority Business Alliance" on the donation page to direct your gift appropriately.
Partnerships With Purpose
In an effort to successfully fulfill our mission of growing and supporting minority businesses, the Minority Business Alliance has created purposeful partnerships with the following organizations.
City of Charlottesville, Minority Business Commission
Since 2020, the Minority Business Alliance and United Way of Greater Charlottesville have awarded more than $150,000 to minority-owned enterprises through the United Way Minority Business Enterprise Grant. This impactful partnership has provided critical funding to help local businesses grow and thrive. It has also strengthened the MBA community itself.
Latest from Minority Business Alliance
Meet the Minority Business Alliance Leadership Team
Chair
Andrea Copeland, Chief Executive Officer
Charlottesville Chamber
andrea.copeland@cvillechamber.com
Executive Committee
Board Liaison: Nicole Hawker, Heart and Soul Fitness with Nicole
Community Engagement: Lyan M. Figueroa López, CEO of KINGDOM'S LLCÂ
Liaison to the Black Professional Network (BPN): Markiana Smith, Engagement + Belonging Manager, United Way
Education + Programming: Priscilla Akpalu, MPP, Entrepreneurial Impact Manager, Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)
Sponsorships: Sage Corbin, Advancement + Partnerships Manager, Jefferson School FoundationÂ
Liaison to the City Manager's Office: Steve King, MPA, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Charlottesville
Communications + Events: Yvonnia Bryant, Development + Communications Manager, Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)
Affinity groups are led by volunteer leadership committees and a Chamber liaison. To serve in a leadership capacity, you must be a current Chamber member in good standing.
