Staff Reports | Community Updates
The Black Chamber of Arizona announced the upcoming launch of the Arizona Impact Center, a 5,400-square-foot hub for economic empowerment and business innovation, during its sold-out 27th Annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala on Saturday in Glendale.
Opening in spring 2026, the center will be found in the historic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building in downtown Phoenix, owned by Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
The facility will serve as a collaborative space for entrepreneurs, corporate partners and community leaders to work together and create generational wealth, according to a press release.
The gala also celebrated corporate partners Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Bank of America. Aviation Director Chad Makovsky received the Innovation and Regional Impact Award on behalf of the airport, and Bank of America President Scott Vanderpool received the Community Impact Award on behalf of the bank.
Both institutions were recognized for their commitment to inclusive economic development and support for small businesses statewide.
Additionally, the Black Chamber of Arizona awarded TJ Stevenson and Copperstate Riding Club as its Rising Star recipient and honored Latha Restaurant and Bar, Look Better Naked Spa, 1st Step to Greatness, Arizona Filmmakers, Italian Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, and Holy Hands Painter as its Small Business Impact honorees.
“These businesses exemplify innovation, perseverance and community impact,” Dr. Velma Trayham said. “Their success stories reflect the Chamber’s mission to create pathways for generational wealth and inclusive growth across Arizona.”
The event drew more than 500 attendees and was sold out. Representation spanned across the nation, with elected officials and business leaders from Chicago, Detroit, Nevada, California, Texas and South Carolina attending. This national presence reflects the Chamber’s success in positioning Arizona as a model for economic empowerment.
Gov. Katie Hobbs headlined the program and delivered the featured address, alongside remarks from Dr. Trayham and Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers. Hobbs and Weiers also presented official proclamations to the Black Chamber of Arizona at the event.
Guests enjoyed a program emceed by Brittany Erin Bachus, managing attorney at The Bachus Firm LLC, and Ryan Garlington, senior manager of customer success at Rapidscale and Cox Communications. Honorary co-chairs Dr. Sharon Smith of ASU and Tony Bell of SRP and special guest Pinky Cole Hays, founder of Slutty Vegan, offered remarks. The keynote was presented by Ken L. Harris, president and CEO of the National Business League, bringing a national perspective on economic empowerment.
The gala featured a rendition of the national anthem by Tina Estes, followed by a live performance from the band Ear Candy.
The Chamber also announced that the City of Chandler will host the 28th Annual Pinnacle Pathways Gala and Business Awards on Dec. 12, 2026, continuing its tradition of celebrating resilience, regional impact and entrepreneurial excellence.
