Dr. Kenneth L. Harris, Ph.D., is a renowned economist, entrepreneur, and historian who has dedicated his life to empowering and uplifting the Black community. He currently serves as the 16th President/CEO of The National Business League (NBL), the first and oldest trade association for Black businesses in America.

Dr. Harris’s commitment to the economic empowerment of the Black community is reflected in his academic background. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Michigan State University in economics, African American and African Studies, and entrepreneurship. Dr. Harris is also a strong advocate for anti-racism and anti-inequality and has been recognized with numerous awards for his work in this field.

In his role at the NBL, Dr. Harris is committed to bringing economic power to the Black community. The organization is a not-for-profit 501-C(6) tax-exempt, nonpartisan, and nonsectarian commerce-driven enterprise that economically empowers Black businesses, communities, and people. The NBL engages and advocates for Black-owned firms throughout the country and the Pan-African Diaspora. With regional offices now in Atlanta, GA, Los Angeles, CA, Detroit, MI, and headquarters in Washington, DC, the NBL has over 600 chapters in 34 states at its height.

Under Dr. Harris’s leadership, the NBL has access to over 3.2 million Black-owned businesses throughout the U.S. and internationally. The organization works to address the economic challenges faced by the Black community by providing resources and opportunities to Black-owned businesses. The NBL also advocates for policies that promote economic growth and development in Black communities.

Dr. Harris’s commitment to economic empowerment extends beyond his work at the NBL. He served as President/CEO of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. from August 2011 to May 2017. During his tenure, he led the organization to significant growth, expanding its membership base and increasing its visibility in the community.

Dr. Harris is also a vegan and yogi, adhering to the principles of MA’AT. He is a strong advocate for healthy living and believes that wellness is essential for economic success. His commitment to promoting healthy living is reflected in the work of the NBL, which provides resources and opportunities to support the health and wellness of Black-owned businesses and communities.

Dr. Harris’s work has been recognized by numerous organizations and institutions. He was honored with the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) 2007 Minority Business Advocate of the Year award and the Crain’s Detroit Business’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2007. The 2013 New York-based Counselors International has also named him one of the “40 Under 40” top economic development professionals in the United States.

In conclusion, Dr. Kenneth L. Harris, Ph.D., is a prominent advocate for the economic empowerment of the Black community. Through his leadership at the NBL, he is working to provide resources and opportunities to Black-owned businesses and communities. His commitment to anti-racism, anti-inequality, and healthy living is reflected in the work of the NBL, which has over 600 chapters in 34 states at its height. Dr. Harris’s dedication to this cause is an inspiration to all those who seek to promote economic growth and development in the Black community.