The City of Columbia demonstrated its commitment to minority business success by establishing the Minority Business Advisory Council (MBAC) in 2013. MBAC assists in coordinating City efforts to maximize the opportunities and growth potential of minority businesses.
Through guidance and input on current policies and practices, MBAC is charged with collaborating with the Office of Business Opportunities (OBO) to carry out responsibilities in the areas of economic development, employment, procurement, training, and other matters affecting the economic vitality of the minority business community.
MBAC consists of nearly 14 minorities who are either small business owners or individuals who consistently support the development of minority businesses through their work in private industry, government, and academia.
MBAC plays an active role in proposing amendments to the City’s Mentor Protégé Program (MPP). Since MBAC’s inception several recommended amendments have been approved by Columbia City Council.
Current Members:
Greg Davis, Director – SC Department of Transportation
Allen Brown, Senior Loan Officer – South Carolina Community Loan Fund
Jimmy Chao, President – Chao and Associates, Inc.
Cynthia Hardy, President – OnPoint Media, LLC
Karen R. Jenkins, President/CEO – KRJ Consulting, LLC
Anthony Lawrence, Managing Principal – MOTA Design, Construction, Development
Dr. Louis Lynn, President – ENVIRO AgScience
Vanessa Mota, Owner – Mota Intellectual Services, LLC
Cheryl Salley, Chief Executive Officer – Treadwater Solutions
Ronald Taylor, Contractor – Taylor Brothers Construction Company
Kadenia Williams Javis, Founder & Chief Financial Officer – Javis Financial Services, LLC
Roscoe Wilson, Jr., Chief Executive Officer – RC Wilson Group
For more information on the Minority Business Advisory Council, contact the City of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities at (803)545-3950.