Your membership in OAACC comes with an invitation to participate in our programs and events. They are designed to help you make connections, grow your business, and be part of a vibrant business environment in Oakland.
NETWORKING MIXERS
At OAACC we believe that networking is vital to the success of business owners and professionals. These popular events are held from 6 to 8 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at locations throughout Oakland. They give our members a valuable opportunity to make important connections, exchange information and ideas, and increase awareness of their business. If you would like to host a mixer at your place of business, please contact us.
CONTRACTOR BREAKFASTS
OAACC members can learn about contracting opportunities right from the source at our bimonthly Contractor Breakfasts. Major contracting agencies and construction firms join us to make presentations about upcoming projects, and business services firms offer sound advice on such vital topics as bidding, bonding, and bookkeeping.
OAACC ANNUAL LUNCHEON
The annual OAACC Anniversary Luncheon will take place this year on November 17. One of Oakland’s premier business events, the Luncheon brings together business leaders, community leaders, and elected officials to network with colleagues, make valuable contacts, and gain important insights and ideas about the direction of Oakland’s economy. The Luncheon also provides an opportunity for attendees to hear about OAACC’s accomplishments over the previous year and preview the agenda for the coming year.
“SOLUTIONS FOR SUCCESS” SEMINAR SERIES
In 2010, OAACC inaugurated a popular series of seminars to support and boost the capacity of small and minority businesses in Oakland, particularly those in the African-American business community. Program topics address each of the three basic functions that any successful business must perform well—operations, marketing, and finance/administration. The seminars are designed to help participants make connections, sharpen their competitive edge, grow their businesses, and be part of building a vibrant business environment.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
OAACC staff, board members, and volunteers work with many businesses and organizations to promote procurement and contracting opportunities for members. OAACC also advises corporate and government entities of the availability and advantages of working with African-American suppliers. OAACC serves as your agent for new customers and business and for information on upcoming government bids and economic development projects.
AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
OAACC Ambassadors are members who volunteer to act as goodwill representatives for OAACC. They greet attendees at OAACC functions, facilitate networking, and encourage nonmembers to consider joining. In addition to assisting OAACC, the volunteers gain personal and professional benefits from the increased visibility and contacts offered by their Ambassador role.
ADVOCACY AND PUBLIC POLICY
OAACC keeps you informed and helps you make your voice heard regarding key issues and policies that impact minority businesses and the economic climate in our city, region, and state. We engage in dialogue with elected representatives and officials and advocate for our members’ interests in such critical areas as business opportunities, supplier diversity, workforce development, healthcare, education, safety and security issues, and maintaining global competitiveness. We offer business leaders the chance to develop and advance important working relationships with key decision-makers.
