The National Business League (NBL) is the first and largest independent not-for-profit trade association for Black-owned businesses and professionals in the United States of America. Founded by the iconic and legendary Dr. Booker T. Washington on August 23, 1900, it was known then as the National Negro Business League. The NBL serves as a global catalyst for the economic development, empowerment, and liberative freedom of Black businesses, playing a central role in building strong leaders, families, communities, and sustainable enterprises.The NBL champions the interests of more than 3.2 million Black American businesses that contribute a remarkable $206 billion to the U.S. economy, generating 3.5 million jobs. Notably, Black women represent the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population, and there is a consistent year-over-year increase in the number of Black entrepreneurs, particularly among the younger generation. Approximately two-thirds of Black owners (66%) are under 40, ushering in a new era of Black entrepreneurship, while roughly two-thirds (63%) of non-Black owners are over 40.With regional offices strategically located in Atlanta, GA., Detroit, MI., Los Angeles, CA., and Washington, D.C., the NBL has recently relocated its national office back to its founding birthplace, Tuskegee, AL. Additionally, it has established an international presence with an office in Cape Town, South Africa, extending its mission globally.Approaching its remarkable 125th quasquicentennial anniversary year of service in 2025, the NBL boasts a membership of over 120,000 individuals throughout the U.S. It proudly collaborates with more than 125 Fortune 500 companies, along with public and private sector organizations worldwide, dedicated to advancing Black economic equity and inclusion in the racially diverse global marketplace.