Building the Bridge Between California and Africa for Mutual Benefits
About A3C
A California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation organized under Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Who We Are
A3C exists to foster and strengthen trade, commerce and investment between African nations and California — serving as a resource and unified voice for members engaged in African-California commerce.
The Chamber brings together businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, institutions and public agencies across California and the African continent. Through programming, advocacy, matchmaking and trade missions, A3C works to convert commercial potential into measurable economic outcomes for its members.
Context
California is the world's fifth-largest economy and one of Africa's most natural trade partners, yet the commercial relationship between them remains far below its potential.
Growing U.S.-Africa trade and investment interest under frameworks such as AGOA and its successor initiatives, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), is opening new channels for California businesses to engage the continent.
A critical mass of Africa-focused businesses, funds and founders, from the Bay Area to Los Angeles to San Diego, gives the Chamber a ready base to convene and connect to African markets.
Renewed civic appetite for economic development collaboration with minority and international-trade-focused business institutions creates an opening for a chamber built around trade outcomes, not just representation.
No existing statewide chamber occupies this space, meaning this is the opportunity to build the founding institution for California-Africa trade, not join an existing one.
Strategic Pillars
Facilitate bilateral trade between California and African markets.
Connect investors, businesses, funds and projects.
Support entrepreneurs and business growth.
Promote technology transfer, innovation and digital transformation.
Represent members before government, civic and business institutions.
Build meaningful relationships between California and African business communities.
Founding Timeline
September 25, 2026
Founding Member selection closes; Bylaws finalized by the Organizing Committee
September 28, 2026
Founding Members ratify the Bylaws and elect the inaugural Board of Directors
October 1, 2026
Public launch event and first annual meeting; first program year begins
January 1, 2027
Program year restarts on the calendar-year cycle
