On June 20, 1938, the Washington, DC Chamber of Commerce was incorporated in the nation’s capital. Initially formed to provide services for African–American businesses in the city, the name of the organization was changed to the Negro Chamber of Commerce in 1946, to reflect the unique needs of black businesses. In 1956 our leadership re-evaluated the needs of businesses in the city and re-established itself as the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce. With the new name came a new direction, and the Chamber expanded its operations to address the needs of all businesses in the District of Columbia. The DC Chamber has continued to uphold its commitment to delivering the capital to businesses and citizens. We provide invaluable tools to help businesses develop, and it leverages relationships with key contacts in the DC Council and the Federal government to improve the business climate and attract new businesses to the District. Today the DC Chamber continues its mission, to be the most valuable resource and leading advocate for businesses throughout the District of Columbia; with a bold vision to create a vibrant, thriving economy that improves the quality of life for all in the District, establishing mutually beneficial partnerships between business, government and the community.