Theresa Carson, founder of the African American Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (AAGACC), said that the chamber was founded to develop and empower economic opportunities for African American/black businesses.
"African American businesses were sort of a mystery within the community," Carson told KOAT 7. "So one of the goals of the chamber is to create advocacy for African American businesses."
During an inaugural fundraiser concert event Saturday in Albuquerque, black-owned businesses in New Mexico were saluted. The event was sponsored by the AAGACC, one of the state's oldest black businesses. Both Powdrell's Barbecue was recognized for its success in New Mexico, as well as Nina Farrow, who was also honored for her contributions, in running a woman-owned business.
Carson said the organization wants to recognize the growing number of black-owned businesses in the state, while promoting education and networking.
"We think by this event, we will be able to get people to realize that No. 1, we exist," Chamber President and CEO Karla Causey said. "We're hoping that this will help people to know that we are here, we're available."