On Sept. 21, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC) held a memorandum of understanding ceremony to formalize a partnership. Preceding the ceremony, the county commissioners, led by Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, presented a proclamation recognizing Sept. 20 through Sept. 24 as Minority Business Opportunity Week.

“The GMSDC is proud to partner with the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce in serving our mutual constituents in Georgia’s business community,” said Stacey Key, President & CEO of GMSDC. “As our population becomes ever more diverse, the minority business community continues to grow, notably in Gwinnett and all around the metro region. I look forward to engaging on business development initiatives and collaborating on programs and activities that are of benefit to all of our stakeholders.”

Governor Brian Kemp issued a proclamation declaring September 20 – 24, 2021 as the Minority Business Opportunity Week. Spearheaded by the GMSDC, Georgia’s leading small business development and supplier diversity organization, MBOW is a weeklong recognition of the rich history, achievements and contributions of the minority business community to the state’s economy. The week includes activities focused on raising awareness, celebrating excellence and facilitating new opportunities.

The Gwinnett Chamber is currently working with GMSDC to identify minority-owned members and vendors of the chamber so as to better serve them with targeted resources like grants and loans. Furthermore, existing chamber members and businesses in Gwinnett that are seeking to diversify their vendor portfolio have turned to the chamber for connections to minority owned businesses.

“Our partnership with GMSDC aligns perfectly with the agreements the Gwinnett Chamber has made with all of our bi-lateral chambers the past year,” said Nick Masino, President & CEO of Gwinnett Chamber and Partnership Gwinnett. “Connecting GMSDC, not only with our members but also with members of our bi-lateral chamber partners, will drive exposure and open new markets for businesses to grow.”