The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc. founded in 1935, emerged as a national non-profit organization in light of the need to promote and protect the interests of women business owners and professionals.

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The idea of this national organization for business and professional women was conceived by Emma Odessa Young, a realtor from New York City and a member of the New York Club of Business and Professional Women, in 1934. In July 1935, Ollie Chinn Porter, president of the New York Club, invited local clubs, organized as Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, to join and

form a national organization.

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The Founders were Emma Odessa Young, Ollie Chinn Porter, and Effie Diton of New York City; Bertha Perry Rhodes, Josephine B. Keene, and Adelaide Flemming of Philadelphia; and Goldeana Pearle Flipping of Atlantic City. The first convention was held in Atlantic City, New Jersey on July 9-11, 1936, at the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church on Arctic Avenue. Ollie Chinn Porter was elected as the first national president.

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The importance of education and economic development through entrepreneurship was emphasized as women sought to support women through community service and social activism. The NANBPWC, Inc. through its national leadership, regional districts and local clubs provides opportunities for women to increase their leadership skills, experience governance and parliamentary procedures, and enhance their educational awareness of issues impacting the Black community through volunteerism. The NANBPWC, Inc. encourages youth and young adults to achieve economic independence by joining the rising tide of young people in business today. Our International Affairs Division operates in Africa, the Caribbean and the global community building socio-economic relationships between women. The members of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. understand that we can make a difference by sharing our blessings.

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The very concept of sharing is integral to a sense of community. While it is the responsibility of each individual to make the most of his or her life, it is the responsibility of the larger community to provide the conditions that encourage success, a healthy, stable environment, and opportunities for educational and economic achievement.