After serving as a pillar of business advocacy and development for over half a century, the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce has reached a defining moment: securing its first permanent headquarters in Liberty City.
“We won’t be looking for space anytime in the near or distant future,” proudly declared Eric Knowles, the chamber’s president, as he reflected on this historic milestone.
For decades, the chamber has worked tirelessly to empower minority-owned businesses and promote economic equity in South Florida. Establishing a permanent home not only marks a new chapter of stability and growth but also demonstrates the chamber’s unwavering commitment to Liberty City—a neighborhood with a legacy of resilience, culture, and potential.
A Hub for Community and Innovation
The new 3,500-square-foot headquarters, made possible through a partnership with Related Urban Development, is more than just an office. It will serve as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurs, providing resources, technical assistance, and business development workshops.
“We will be building out an incubator and business center for businesses in Liberty City or those who need space,” explained Knowles. “It’s about helping people turn ideas into reality, from developing business plans to launching their ventures.”
The chamber’s partnership with Related Urban underscores its mission to uplift the community. Albert Milo Jr., president of Related Urban, emphasized the shared vision: “It was always about rebuilding the community,” he said, referencing the multimillion-dollar Liberty City Rising initiative aimed at revitalizing the area and creating opportunities for local residents and businesses.
Honoring a Legacy of Advocacy
Founded 50 years ago to address the lack of inclusion and opportunities for Black businesses, particularly in government contracting, the chamber has remained a steadfast advocate for economic empowerment. While its mission has expanded to include women-owned and other minority-owned businesses, its core purpose remains unchanged: fostering equity in a region defined by its diversity.
“Fifty years ago, the chamber was formed because of a lack of inclusion and opportunity,” Knowles said. “Today, we continue to support a city that is incredibly diverse—Black, Haitian, Jamaican, Bahamian, Cuban, and more.”
Celebrating the Milestone
The chamber’s recent holiday gala, a fundraiser and celebration of its achievements, brought together over 300 attendees to honor community leaders and supporters. Among the honorees was Dr. Willie Logan, who received the H.T. Smith Lifetime Achievement Award, named after the prominent lawyer and activist who led the Miami boycott when Nelson Mandela was snubbed.
Other awards recognized notable contributions, including Florida State Senator Oscar Braynon II, entrepreneur Carole Ann Taylor, and Yolanda Cash Jackson, Esq. The evening’s honorary chair, Commissioner Oliver Gilbert III, joined past honorees like Mayor Daniella Levine Cava in celebrating the chamber’s accomplishments.
“Miami-Dade County, we are making it happen thanks to your advocacy, persistence, and leadership,” Mayor Cava remarked during the gala. “Congratulations on this incredible milestone!”
Looking Ahead
For Knowles, securing a permanent home is not just a personal achievement but a collective victory for the entire community. As the chamber prepares to settle into its Liberty City office, it looks forward to creating opportunities and fostering innovation for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
“This is more than just a building,” Knowles emphasized. “It’s a bold step forward in our mission to drive economic empowerment and ensure a brighter future for Liberty City and beyond.”
With its new headquarters, the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce is poised to continue its legacy of advocacy and collaboration, ensuring that South Florida’s diverse communities thrive for generations to come.
