Our
Mission

Our purpose is to promote sustainable economic growth and empowerment within the black-owned business community. We are committed to achieving this by focusing on four key pillars: education, advocacy, mentorship, and networking.

Through education, we strive to equip black-owned businesses with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to thrive in a competitive marketplace. By providing access to educational programs, workshops, and seminars, we aim to empower entrepreneurs with valuable insights, industry trends, and best practices.

Advocacy lies at the heart of our mission. We advocate for the interests and needs of black-owned businesses at various levels, engaging with policymakers, organizations, and stakeholders to drive meaningful change. By championing inclusive policies, fostering an equitable business environment, and addressing systemic barriers, we aim to create a more level playing field for black entrepreneurs.

Mentorship plays a crucial role in our approach. We believe in the power of guidance and support, pairing aspiring or established black-owned businesses with experienced mentors who offer valuable advice, encouragement, and industry-specific knowledge. Through mentorship programs, we foster meaningful connections and facilitate personal and professional growth.

Networking forms the cornerstone of our efforts. We recognize the significance of building strong networks and connections within the business community. By organizing networking events, conferences, and collaborative initiatives, we provide platforms for black entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and forge partnerships. These networking opportunities facilitate the exchange of ideas, business opportunities, and shared experiences, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of black-owned businesses.

Through our comprehensive approach encompassing education, advocacy, mentorship, and networking, we are dedicated to advancing the economic growth, success, and sustainability of black-owned businesses. By empowering entrepreneurs, addressing systemic challenges, and cultivating a supportive community, we aspire to create a future where black-owned businesses thrive and contribute to the overall prosperity of our society.

Contact Us

President’s
Letter

And We Thought 2020 Was Tough

To All Our Friends of the Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico I’m taking just a few minutes from the nonstop 2025 accomplishments, hard work, and craziness of year-end fundraising to reflect on the year we’ve had. And it’s been a year. The subject line is true –  we didn’t think we would ever experience a year like a year with a global pandemic. 

The big difference? In 2020, there was the promise of a vaccine – a belief that the world would return to “normal.”  And the vaccine arrived, and we eased back into something akin to normal.

Then along came 2025 with elected officials at the highest levels attacking the nonprofit sector. With every passing day this year, we have had news about policies, executive orders, and pauses in federal funding. We’d find ourselves thinking about how to deal with problem A, and then the next day, a new executive order presented new challenges.  

As you know, we provide services for the underserved, under-engaged, under- resourced, and under-funded communities who are under attack and terrified, and they look to us to advocate for them.

How did we get through it? How did we navigate these turbulent waters?

We did it because you stood with us, partnered with us, provided moral support, and stood as thought partners in untangling some of the biggest knots we have ever faced. We did it because you wrote checks as donors, gave time as volunteers, and helped us plan for different scenarios.

In some cases, these challenging times made remarkable things happen – some big, some small.

These actions, big or small, inspired a team that felt constantly under pressure but never gave up.

So, this note is simply a note of thanks.  Thank you for choosing the Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico and for not sitting on the sidelines. Thank you for bringing us ideas, time, and treasure.

And spoiler alert: this is a marathon, not a sprint. We will need you all in 2026 – to create a new normal, to fiercely advocate for our communities, and to help us think more creatively than ever before.  

Because the world is counting on us.

Enjoy your holidays – spend time with those you hold dear –  and know that each of you made a meaningful contribution to our organization at a time when we needed you most.

If you plan to give to a TRUSTED 501c3 charity, doing it now may mean a tax deduction (please consult your tax accountant) and it supports a cause you care about. Or feel free to donate anytime in 2026 and beyond.

 - Checks may be hand delivered to our office or sent via carriers such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL must be physically received at the Black Chamber on or before Noon, Wednesday, December 31.

- Credit card gifts can be made online until 11:59 pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. for a current year deductible: Registration ⇽ Donate | Glue Up

- Checks may be sent via the U.S. Postal Service to the Black Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico, and must be postmarked on or before Wednesday, December 31, 2025, for current year deductions.

With deep appreciation and warm wishes for the holidays.

Karla Causey, President and CEO

700 4th Street SW, Suite A

Albuquerque, NM 87102

kdcausey@BCCofNN.org

505-340-2773

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Executive Board Members

Karla Causey

Karla Causey

President/CEO
Chad Cooper

Chad Cooper

Chair
Tana Traylor

Tana Traylor

Chair
Dan Wilkinson

Dan Wilkinson

Secretary
David Hicks

David Hicks

Treasurer

Board of Directors

Darly G. Barkley

Darly G. Barkley

Board Member
Kenny Thomas

Kenny Thomas

Board Member
Dar Johnson

Dar Johnson

Board Member
Marjorie Germaine

Marjorie Germaine

Board Member
Eric Eggins

Eric Eggins

Board Member
Clarence Smith

Clarence Smith

Board Member
Dr. Sheldon Jordan

Dr. Sheldon Jordan

Board Member
Shaina Saint-Lot

Shaina Saint-Lot

Board Member

Board Advisors

Leroy Pacheco

Leroy Pacheco

Board Advisor
Bettye Pressley

Bettye Pressley

Board Advisor
Herb Crosby

Herb Crosby

Eternal Advisor