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Yoland Pierson Named President & CEO of Minnesota Black Chamber

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  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 19:12 GMT by TwinCities.com
      Locales: Minnesota, UNITED STATES

Minneapolis, MN - The Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) has appointed Yoland Pierson as its new President and CEO, effective March 1st, 2026, ushering in a period of anticipated growth and expanded impact for Black-owned businesses across the state. The announcement, made on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, follows the retirement of long-serving CEO William Davis, who leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and a solid foundation for future success.

Pierson's arrival comes at a pivotal time, not only for the Chamber but for the broader landscape of Black entrepreneurship nationally. While strides have been made in recent years to address systemic barriers to economic equity, significant disparities remain. Access to capital, mentorship, and supportive policies continue to be major hurdles for Black business owners, despite a demonstrable appetite for entrepreneurship within the community. The MBCC, under Davis's leadership, has already begun addressing these issues, and Pierson is poised to accelerate these efforts.

Her appointment isn't simply a change in leadership; it represents a strategic move by the Chamber to leverage Pierson's extensive experience in business development, community engagement, and strategic leadership. Sources within the Chamber indicate that Pierson's selection wasn't merely based on experience, but on a clearly articulated vision for expanding the Chamber's reach and deepening its impact. She is expected to focus on scaling successful programs and developing innovative initiatives to address the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs in Minnesota's diverse economic regions.

"We are thrilled to welcome Yoland to the Minnesota Black Chamber," said Chamber Board Chair, Marcus Johnson. "Her vision and leadership will be instrumental in furthering our mission of supporting Black businesses and fostering economic equity throughout the state." Johnson emphasized the Board's confidence in Pierson's ability to not only maintain the Chamber's momentum but to significantly elevate its influence.

Davis himself has voiced strong support for the transition. "I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together," Davis stated. "I am confident that Yoland will build on that foundation and take the Chamber to new heights." This handover signifies a smooth transition and a shared commitment to the long-term prosperity of Black-owned businesses.

The Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce has experienced substantial growth in recent years, particularly in its ability to connect Black entrepreneurs with crucial resources. The Chamber's expansion of programs and services reflects a growing demand for support, driven by a rise in Black entrepreneurship across various sectors, including technology, retail, and professional services. However, this growth also highlights the increasing complexity of the challenges these businesses face.

Pierson is expected to prioritize three key areas: access to capital, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy for policies that directly benefit Black businesses. Addressing the capital gap is particularly crucial. Historically, Black entrepreneurs have faced significantly more difficulty securing loans and investment compared to their white counterparts, often due to biased lending practices and a lack of access to networks. Pierson is reportedly exploring partnerships with venture capital firms, angel investors, and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to create innovative financing solutions.

The mentorship component is also seen as vital. Providing established Black entrepreneurs with opportunities to guide and support emerging business owners can foster a sense of community and provide invaluable insights. The Chamber is expected to expand its existing mentorship program and create new initiatives focused on specific industries and business stages.

Finally, advocacy for supportive policies will be a cornerstone of Pierson's leadership. This includes advocating for legislation that promotes fair contracting practices, encourages diversity in procurement, and addresses systemic barriers to economic equity. The MBCC plans to work closely with state and local policymakers to ensure that the voices of Black businesses are heard and that their needs are addressed.

The appointment of Yoland Pierson marks a promising chapter for the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce and the Black business community it serves. Her leadership, combined with the Chamber's existing infrastructure and a growing network of supporters, positions the organization to play an even more significant role in fostering economic empowerment and creating a more equitable future for all Minnesotans.