This program is designed for GHBC members to prepare growth-stage businesses for the next level.
Our Impact
Explore Our Programs
The SOS initiative is the Greater Houston Black Chamber’s comprehensive business development platform for entrepreneurs. Focused on helping thriving businesses in the Houston community, SOS equips entrepreneurs with the tools and networks necessary for sustainable and scalable growth.
What is SOS?
GHBC's Supporting Our Success Initiative
SOS has helped over 1,500 Black-owned businesses grow through access to training, funding, and procurement pipelines.
Accelerating business success in just 4 weeks through focused, high-impact training on subcontracting and financials.
Annual business expo linking businesses of all sizes with real procurement opportunities, training, and insight.
Bi-monthly virtual sessions that unlock pathways to procurement with major private and public partners.
High-impact conference equipping businesses with tools and capital access to build generational wealth.
1. THE ACADEMY
Spring & Fall | Cohort-Based Training
Our flagship 4–6 week business development program is built for growth-stage Black-owned businesses.
Limited to 20 – 40 attendees per session
Join the Strategic Growth Academy
We designed a cohort-based training initiative by GHBC that empowers you with the essential tools to secure contracts, build wealth, and scale your business confidently.
Limited spots available
Spring Session
Financially Fit
Build a rock-solid financial foundation for scaling your business.
Weekly Topics:
- Budgeting & cash flow planning
- Risk management & continuity
- Valuation & forecasting
- Accessing capital & investor readiness
Fall Cohort
Subcontracting
Master the procurement process and prepare your business to secure contracts.
Weekly Topics:
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Public & private procurement
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Certification & compliance essentials
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Writing competitive bids
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Financial readiness & risk management
2. THE FAIR
October | In-Person Event
Build real connections after the Fall Academy
September 24, 2026 | Deluxe Theatre
The event will convene 75 to 100 small businesses alongside public and private sector procurement officers, supplier diversity leaders, and contracting entities offering active subcontracting opportunities.
Public & Private Aector Procurement Officers
Supplier Diversity Leaders
Real Contract Opportunities
One-on-one Matchmaking & Panel Discussion
3. THE SERIES
Monthly | Virtual Training
Monthly procurement, right at your fingertips.
Get insights into active procurement pipelines
 Understand the certification steps required
Learn how to do business directly with featured partners
Designed contract-ready businesses in procurement-relevant industries
Each session features a corporate or government partner to guide businesses through real procurement opportunities.
Our Past Partners
Why SOS Matters?
Economic Equity
Designed for businesses in the Houston community
Proven Results
Trusted by GHBC corporate partners
Wraparound Support
Mentorship, technical assistance, and access to procurement opportunities
Community Impact
Participants create jobs, build wealth, and reinvest in Houston
Who Is SOS For?
Black-owned businesses in the Greater Houston Area
GHBC Member or ready to join
Serious about scaling, accessing contracts, or raising capital
Without SOS, I wouldn’t have known how to become certified, let alone bid on a city contract. I now have my first subcontract in hand.
Doing Business With helped me understand what corporate buyers actually need from us. It’s game-changing.
Ready to unlock your next level?
Choose the right program for your business journey or connect with us to learn more.
Do I need to be a GHBC member to participate in SOS?
Yes. Most programs are exclusive to members. Join us to access the full ecosystem. Our Doing Business with Series is available to members and non-members, while our Strategic Growth Academy and Resurgence Program are only open to GHBC members.
What industries are eligible?
We serve a wide range of industries, especially those engaged in professional services, construction, logistics, technology, and government contracting.
Can I participate in more than one program?
Yes! SOS is designed as an interconnected ecosystem that offers multiple benefits throughout the year.
Is there a cost associated with SOS programming?
Some programs, like our Doing Business with Series, are free virtual events.