CBC enhances economic opportunities for Caribbean-owned businesses in the U.S.

Caribbean Business Connections (CBC), a networking organization established in 2012, is ramping up efforts to enhance economic ties between Caribbean entrepreneurs in the United States and business opportunities domestically and in their home countries.

Co-founded by Hanif Russell and Sandra McCarty, CBC was launched to address the need for more support for Caribbean business owners seeking to connect, collaborate, and give back to their communities.

Russell explains that the organization began as a monthly gathering in local Caribbean-owned establishments, each event designed to boost visibility and sales for these small businesses. “We wanted to make sure we were putting dollars into those entities,” he said, emphasizing CBC’s commitment to uplifting Caribbean-owned businesses through intentional community support. This approach led many establishments to secure catering contracts and lasting business relationships.

Today, CBC’s network includes over 1,500 business contacts, though the organization is restructuring its formal membership system to meet evolving needs. Since the pandemic, CBC has adapted by integrating technology and plans to relaunch a membership structure with new offerings, including access to mentorship and a resource library. The new format aims to empower Caribbean entrepreneurs with resources to secure contracts in both private and public sectors.

CBC also partners with local Chambers of Commerce to better meet the unique needs of Caribbean business owners. Russell explained, “We connect with local chambers, fostering relationships so Caribbean businesses can access the resources they need.”

Looking to 2025, CBC plans to host sector-focused networking events around industries like tourism and healthcare, which are seeking support. These events will allow industry leaders to engage directly with Caribbean communities and promote tourism and business initiatives across the islands.

The organization is also developing mentoring programs that connect aspiring young professionals with industry leaders, offering career guidance and networking opportunities across various fields, from law to healthcare and marketing. This mentorship initiative will be accessible to Caribbean youth through virtual platforms like Zoom, making it easier to bridge the distance.

Caribbean business owners and supporters can find the group on social media at Caribbean Biz Connections to stay connected or join CBC’s initiatives.

Russell calls on the Caribbean-American community to continue supporting Caribbean-owned businesses, stating, “It’s important to foster generational wealth and keep ties strong with our home countries.”