New chamber offers vital support and opportunity for Ethiopian and Eritrean entrepreneurs in Dallas
Dallas, Texas – Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson officially opened the Ethiopian & Eritrean Chamber of Commerce on Monday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in the Dallas International District. The event signified a deepening of international partnerships between Dallas and the African continent, particularly with two of its most prominent East African communities.
“This is an historic occasion for Dallas and our Ethiopian and Eritrean communities. Starting today, this chamber’s support of these two communities will strengthen and enrich our city’s vibrant economy,” said Mayor Johnson. “Dallas’s international partnerships have been a key focus of my Administration, and right now, our relationship with Africa is stronger than ever.”
The newly launched chamber will act as a central hub for Ethiopian and Eritrean business owners and entrepreneurs, offering support services, resources, and opportunities for investment and growth. It is designed to encourage entrepreneurship within these communities while also fostering collaboration with American businesses.
A New Home for Community and Economic Exchange
“The Ethiopian and Eritrean Chamber of Commerce marks a new chapter of opportunity and collaboration in Dallas,” said Yilma Feleke, interim president of the Ethiopian & Eritrean Chamber of Commerce board. “We thank Mayor Johnson for his leadership and support in helping us create a home where our communities can build businesses, share their cultures, and contribute to the city’s thriving economy.”
This chamber is expected to serve as more than just a business incubator. It will become a space for cultural exchange, where Ethiopian and Eritrean traditions can be celebrated and integrated into the broader Dallas economy. From facilitating business partnerships to promoting tourism and cultural heritage, the chamber stands to benefit not only East African communities but the city at large.
Part of a Larger International Vision
This new chamber is the fourth international trade office to open in the Dallas International District under Mayor Johnson’s administration. It follows a broader strategy aimed at expanding Dallas’s global footprint through targeted investments in trade and cultural diplomacy. These international trade offices are part of the mayor’s commitment to increasing foreign direct investment, enhancing cultural exchange, and supporting immigrant-led businesses.
With this latest addition, the city further strengthens its global connections, helping Dallas remain competitive in an increasingly international economy. Mayor Johnson’s continued push for international cooperation and local inclusiveness reflects a vision of Dallas as a truly global city.
