Arab American

Business Council

What We Do

Minority Business Enterprise Certification

Minority Certification aims to economically empower businesses that are at least 51% owned and operated by American citizens of Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African (MENA) heritage.

Access to Professional Networks

Explore our hub for networks of Arab and MENA business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals across diverse industries, fostering collaboration, partnerships, and growth.

Resources & Growth

Access state procurement portals and with expert guidance on navigating the intricate public bidding process. Explore grants, loans, and tailored to support small businesses and MENA-owned enterprises.

Events

Stay updated on conferences, webinars, and networking events that foster collaboration and professional development within the MENA business community.

State Solicitation Portal

Unlock new opportunities for your business by accessing vital resources that support growth and sustainability. You can find links to public solicitation portals for each state, making it easier to explore government contracts and public procurement opportunities.

Grow Your Business

Become
Certified

MENA-Owned Business Certification

Apply

Testimonials

Testimonials from Certified MENA owned businesses

“We are at this incredible moment — at the helm of a positive change — where opportunities are opening to historically underserved communities. We're in discussions with many national retailers who are really excited about the MENA certification because they already have programs in place to support minority owned brands.”

Semira Nikou

Co-Founder, Better Sour

“I was born in the US, and my heritage is 100% Lebanese. Yet when I tried to apply to some of the more established minority certifying agencies, they told me: ‘You’re Caucasian. We don’t recognize that as a minority.’ Compared with white or Caucasian business owners who might be of European heritage, our experience as MENA business owners is definitely different. I’ve had people say very racist and discriminatory things towards me.”

Alexander Harik

Zesty Z

“When I had previously applied to various organizations to be certified, there was either no MENA box to check, or if I wrote “Middle Eastern” on a blank line option, I got rejected over and over. MENA was a much-needed certification that legitimizes us with the retailers.”

Yassin Sibai

Co-Founder, Afia Foods

“I'm the daughter of an Iranian immigrant. I've always felt extremely lonely within the larger DEI conversations in this community. It's really amazing to finally be able to feel included in these larger diversity conversations. It's now on our packaging. We're an Iranian American brand.”

Bella Hughes

Co-Founder, Better Sour

“Align HCM regularly highlights ADC’s MBE Certificate to complement our sales efforts with tremendous success. The benefits of this program are numerous and I hope more private sector companies follow suit and recognize the potential and contributions of Arab American business owners in diversifying their portfolios and contracts.”

Maher El-Abdallah

Co-Founder & CEO, Align HCM

About AABC

The Arab American Business Council (AABC) is an initiative of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC). AABC is a platform dedicated to empowering Arab and MENA-American business owners and entrepreneurs across diverse industries. Our mission is to provide vital support, strategic resources, and expert advice to enhance the success and visibility of businesses in our community. AABC serves as both a voice and a resource for Arab American business leaders, helping to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and foster economic growth.

Empowering Arab American Entrepreneurs

Our vision is to foster economic empowerment for Arab American business owners and entrepreneurs. We believe in creating a future where Arab American businesses are recognized, valued, and uplifted. Empowerment means opening doors to new opportunities, building connections, and providing tools for success. This vision focuses on promoting fair access to capital, government contracts, and financial resources that drive innovation and sustainable growth.

Building a Future of Prosperity

Our vision extends beyond individual success. We seek to create lasting impact for Arab American businesses by empowering them to contribute to the broader economy, create local jobs, and strengthen community ties. Through mentorship, advocacy, and industry partnerships, we are dedicated to building a thriving ecosystem for future generations of Arab American entrepreneurs. Together, we can shape a future of shared prosperity and economic resilience.