Madison, WI - September 14, 2026  - The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) celebrated a significant investment in local businesses Friday, September 11, as 40 member businesses received a combined $602,281 in grant funding awarded through the Wisconsin Department of Administration.

Two types of grants were awarded: Graduate Grants of up to $2,500 were available to qualifying graduates of the MBCC Means Business incubator program, while Catalyst Grants of up to $25,000 were open to MBCC members.

MBCC President & CEO Camille Carter presented oversized ceremonial checks to grant recipients during a celebration at The Black Business Hub. The event brought together grantees, Chamber leadership, state representatives, and community partners to recognize the recipients and the potential  impact of this investment on businesses and the broader Madison economy.

“This grant represents more than a check - it represents an investment in the future of local businesses and the communities they serve,” said Camille Carter, President & CEO of the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce. “When businesses have access to resources that allow them to invest and grow, the benefits extend beyond individual businesses. These grant dollars will have a ripple effect, helping businesses create jobs, support employees and families, strengthen local supply chains, and create opportunities for intergenerational wealth. Each one of you is now a catalyst and a driver of growth - we can’t wait to see how you use these grant funds to build your business and our community.”

For entrepreneurs receiving the grants, the funding represents an opportunity to address business needs, pursue new opportunities, and expand their capacity to serve their community.

Eric Hudson, owner of H&R Powerrs, a Rural Mutual Insurance agency, described the significance of the investment in the context of his industry and his plans for growth.

“Has anybody ever heard of Rural Mutual Insurance?” Hudson asked. “There’s a reason you have not. Of the 150 Rural Mutual agents in Wisconsin, I am one of only three Black agents. This grant will allow me to hire two or three trainees who have a passion for helping our community manage risk and protect their assets for the future. I see this as an opportunity not only to grow my business, but to create a pathway for more people to enter an industry where Black professionals remain underrepresented.”

Nicole Pecku, President & CEO of Pecku Anchored AFH, emphasized the broader value of the Chamber's support.

“I’ve been in business for twelve years and the Madison Black Chamber is the first organization to pour into my business,” said Pecku. “Between emails, turnaround time, and technical assistance, everyone at the Chamber has been so amazing.”

“Investments in our small businesses contribute to stronger, more sustainable and vibrant communities,” Carter continued. “The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce advocates for an equitable Wisconsin - one where gaps in wealth, skills, and opportunity are intentionally narrowed through investment. We move closer to that vision one business, one investment, and one opportunity at a time.” ________________________________________________________________________________________ 

About the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce:

The Madison Black Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to advancing Black-owned businesses through advocacy, promotion, education, and economic empowerment. Serving more than 850 businesses and entrepreneurs throughout South Central Wisconsin, the Chamber works to strengthen connections, expand opportunities, and foster sustainable business growth across the region.