New Chamber of Commerce to improve economic prospects for BME businesses launches in Bristol

bristol | corporations | press release Friday July 03, 2009 22:40 by Forward Maisokwadzo - African and Carribbean Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise

A new Bristol-based Chamber of Commerce to support African and Caribbean led businesses in the South West will launch at Circomedia on Wednesday 22nd July.

The African and Caribbean Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise, (ACCCE,) will work closely with GWE Business West to provide members with networking opportunities, business advice, and a range of training and mentoring programmes.

The Lord Mayor of Bristol will attend the launch event with other special guests including Lee Jasper, founder member of Equanomics UK and Sherrie Eugene.

The Chamber received a message of support from ‘Dragons’ Den’ star and entrepreneur James Caan, co-chair of the Ethnic Minority Task Force.

Mr. Caan said: “It is important to recognize the contribution that ethnic-minority – led businesses make to the UK economy and to support the wealth of emerging talent, especially in our inner-cities. I wish the African and Caribbean Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise all the very best with this important initiative”

Current members are from a wide range of sectors including: law; retail; accountancy; entertainment; marketing; ICT; journalism; public relations and design. Membership is open to anyone who supports the aims and ethos of ACCCE.

ACCCE Chair, Fola Kudehinbu says: “The response we have received so far, clearly demonstrates that the Chamber will play an essential part in the economic recovery of the region. The Chamber has forged a number of partnerships with key business support and developmental agencies in and around Bristol and the West of England. In partnership with Universities in the West of England, ACCCE will actively encourage and mentor young would-be entrepreneurs, particularly from African and Caribbean backgrounds as a valuable means of encouraging social stability and economic growth.”

Editors’ notes:

Photo Opportunity

The launch event will take place between 9.00am and 2.00pm on Wednesday 22nd July at Circomedia, Portland Square Bristol BS2 8SJ

Interviews: Fola Kudehinbu is available for interview.
Please call (0117) 924 0906 (mobile) 07984 338421

Contact Details:
Michelle Meredith, Interim Commercial Manager
African and Caribbean Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise Ltd.
Ujima House
97-107 Wilder Street, Bristol BS2 8QU
Tel (0117) 924 0906 (mobile) 07984 338508