Established in July 1920, the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce supports members and the business community at large through a variety of monthly educational events, marketing opportunities and networking events. The Chamber has a separate non-profit educational affiliate called the MCC Foundation which helps members learn about doing business globally. Also, the MCC Community Benefit Fund oversees the management of two major street fairs on Manhattan’s upper east side and hosts the NYC Volunteer Expos featuring hundreds of non-profits organizations seeking volunteers. The street fairs are the oldest and largest street fairs in New York City: the 2nd and 3rd Avenue Community Benefit Festivals held in June and September from 66th to 86th Streets. The profits from grants and raffle proceeds are deposited into the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce’s Community Benefit Fund (CBF) and are distributed to over 75 non profits on Manhattan’s upper east side. Grant applications are sent out to the district’s non-profit agencies who then apply for funding from the CBF for programs directly affecting Community Board 8 area—from E. 59th St. to E. 96th St. from 5th Ave. to the East River.

LGBT-2-B Business Accelerator Program

The LGBT-2-B Business Accelerator Program is a monthly series that provides LGBT entrepreneurs with the essential tools for taking their organizations to the next level. In panel, workshop and networking settings, accomplished professionals will share their strategies for achieving business success and deliver high-quality educational programming.

While geared to the private business owner, corporations with retail-facing products and business services (or a desire to reach the LGBT B2B and B2C marketplace) are invited and encouraged to participate. Individuals considering entrepreneurship are also welcome. All participants gain access to the spectrum of MCC resources, including partnership opportunities with local corporations, education and training, and a highly professional forum for establishing and building deeper LGBT business connections.

MCC’s Green Business Initiative

Includes a green website to help small-to-mid-sized businesses achieve the bottom line benefits of going green as well as a Green Business Committee the mission of which is to provide MCC members with a leading sustainability and environmental roadmap that acts as an up to date educational engine, resource guide and network to experts in the field. The purpose is to support members, make connections, save them time and expense, reduce their imprint, improve Their Triple bottom Line (People, Planet, Profits) and increase the loyalty of their staff, customers and overall image.

Manhattan Chamber of Commerce