Ken L. Harris, Ph.D. Email & Phone Number

Detroit, Mi, Us

Tuskegee, Alabama, Us

Founded on August 23, 1900, by Dr. Booker T. Washington, The National Business League (NBL) is the nation’s oldest and largest independent, not-for-profit trade association dedicated to the advancement of Black-owned businesses and professionals. As the 16th President and CEO since June 19, 2017, I am privileged to lead this historic organization in its mission to create transformative global economic impact.With headquarters in Tuskegee, AL, regional offices in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Detroit, and an international hub in Cape Town, South Africa, the NBL advocates for over 3.6 million Black-owned businesses contributing $128 billion annually to the global economy and creating more than 1.2 million jobs. Our strategic partnerships with over 125 Fortune 500 companies, public sector leaders, and private entities enable us to foster collaboration and drive sustainable growth for Black entrepreneurs across industries.Operating with a nonpartisan, nonsectarian approach, the NBL boasts chapters in all 50 states, an international presence in South America and the Caribbean, and a growing membership of 120,000+ nationwide. As a pioneer in economic equity and innovation, the NBL bridges legacy and progress for Black business success.In 2025, the NBL celebrates its 125th Quasquicentennial Anniversary with the Black Economic Freedom: Digitize 1 Million Black Businesses Campaign, empowering Black entrepreneurs for a tech-driven future while expanding opportunities across the Pan-African Diaspora.Join us in honoring our history and shaping a thriving future for Black businesses globally. Learn more: www.nationalbusinessleague.org.

Us

Dr. Kenneth L. Harris, Founder and CEO of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC), successfully built one of the largest and most impactful Black chambers of commerce in the United States. During his tenure, Dr. Harris spearheaded the MBCC's expansion, establishing chapters in key Michigan cities, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti, Flint, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Oak Park, Pontiac, Saginaw, and Southfield.Under his visionary leadership, the MBCC achieved unprecedented growth, attracting a robust membership base of over 32,000+ members and generating annual revenues exceeding $3 million. The MBCC became a cornerstone of Michigan's Black business ecosystem, actively advocating for the state’s 140,000+ Black-owned businesses at the time and providing essential resources to foster economic growth and sustainability.Dr. Harris's leadership positioned the MBCC as a trailblazer in advancing economic equity and entrepreneurship. Through innovative programs and strategic collaborations, the MBCC contributed significantly to empowering Black businesses, generating measurable economic impact, and driving inclusive economic development throughout the state.In a historic milestone, the MBCC merged with the National Business League (NBL), the nation’s oldest and largest trade association supporting Black businesses. Founded in 1900 by Booker T. Washington, the NBL continues its mission to uplift Black entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and resources. This unification amplified the shared mission of empowering Black-owned enterprises on both a local and global scale.Dr. Harris’s contributions as Founder and CEO of the MBCC underscore his legacy of transformational leadership and dedication to fostering a thriving Black business community. Learn more about ongoing efforts at www.nationalbusinessleague.org.

Detroit, Michigan, Us

Dr. Ken L. Harris served with distinction on the Detroit Charter Revision Commission during the 2009-2012 term, playing a pivotal role in shaping the governance framework for one of America's most historic cities. Elected citywide with an impressive 40,091 votes in a highly competitive election that drew 54 candidates, Dr. Harris emerged as a trusted leader committed to public service and civic transformation.Sworn in by Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey on November 17, 2009, Dr. Harris became one of nine commissioners tasked with the critical responsibility of revising Detroit’s governing document. His tenure was marked by a deep dedication to transparency, inclusivity, and equity, ensuring that the revised charter reflected the voices and needs of Detroit’s diverse communities.Dr. Harris's leadership and strategic insight contributed to a comprehensive charter revision process that empowered Detroiters and laid the groundwork for sustainable governance and economic revitalization during a pivotal period in the city’s history. Drawing from his extensive experience as a business leader and advocate for economic empowerment, Dr. Harris championed policies that prioritized fairness, innovation, and long-term impact.The commission's work under Dr. Harris's term addressed key governance issues, streamlined operations, and modernized city processes, ultimately creating a blueprint for Detroit’s resilience and recovery. His ability to unite diverse stakeholders and balance the city's historic challenges with its future opportunities underscored his unwavering commitment to progress.Dr. Harris’s impactful service on the Detroit Charter Commission serves as a testament to his leadership, vision, and dedication to building a stronger, more equitable Detroit. His contributions continue to inspire civic leaders and community advocates striving to make meaningful change.

Detroit, Mi, Us

Dr. Ken L. Harris’s tenure with the Michigan Minority Business Development Council (MMBDC) stands as a beacon of transformative leadership and impactful economic advocacy. Under his guidance and dedication to advancing diversity in business, MMBDC emerged as the largest minority supplier council in the nation, representing over 2,600 minority businesses and more than 600 corporate members.Dr. Harris played an instrumental role in driving MMBDC’s mission to create equitable access to contract opportunities for minority-owned enterprises. Through strategic partnerships, advocacy, and innovative initiatives, MMBDC facilitated the allocation of over $15.2 billion in minority contracts across the State of Michigan. These contracts empowered businesses, supported job creation, and significantly contributed to the economic vitality of minority communities statewide.Recognized as a trailblazer in fostering diversity and inclusion within the business world, Dr. Harris leveraged his expertise to connect minority businesses with Fortune 500 companies and other major corporate entities. His efforts helped bridge the gap between underserved communities and essential resources, laying the groundwork for sustainable business growth and economic equity.Beyond the numbers, Dr. Harris’s leadership inspired a cultural shift in Michigan’s business ecosystem, demonstrating the tangible value of diverse supply chains and inclusive economic strategies. His ability to unite corporate leaders and minority entrepreneurs fostered an environment where innovation and opportunity thrived.Through his impactful work at MMBDC, Dr. Harris not only championed minority businesses but also left a legacy of advocacy and collaboration that continues to inspire efforts toward economic inclusion nationwide. His vision and achievements remain a testament to the power of leadership in transforming challenges into lasting opportunities.

Us

Dr. Ken L. Harris’s journey as a visionary leader began in his 20s when he founded the International Detroit Black Expo (IDBE) on May 24, 2004. As Chairman, Dr. Harris, alongside Orena Perry, President/CEO, transformed IDBE into one of the nation’s largest Black expos, standing proudly alongside the Indiana Black Expo and the Atlanta Black Expo (For Sisters Only).Under Dr. Harris’s leadership, IDBE became a cornerstone of economic empowerment for Black businesses in Detroit, across Michigan, and throughout the Pan-African diaspora. From 2004 to 2010, IDBE’s membership rapidly grew to include over 7,500 Black-owned businesses statewide, fostering vital connections and setting the stage for the creation of the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce.With an annual attendance of 100,000+ consumers and 1,000+ exhibitors from across the globe, IDBE was a dynamic platform for commerce and culture. Through its innovative initiatives, the expo facilitated over $80 million in commerce exchanges, empowering Black entrepreneurs, strengthening local economies, and creating opportunities for collaboration between businesses and communities.Dr. Harris’s vision for IDBE extended beyond numbers—it served as a catalyst for amplifying Black excellence, entrepreneurship, and unity. The expo not only showcased the economic power of Black businesses but also inspired a movement of resilience and innovation within the Black community.In 2010, the International Detroit Black Expo transitioned into the Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce, marking a new chapter in advancing Black economic empowerment. Dr. Harris’s pioneering work with IDBE laid the foundation for lasting change, continuing to inspire entrepreneurs and stakeholders committed to building a stronger, more equitable economic future. His leadership exemplifies the power of vision and dedication in creating transformative impact for generations to come.

Warren, Michigan, Us

Served as Counseling Psychologist for St. John Community Health Department in Detroit, Michigan.

Detroit, Mi, Us

Served as the universities first Black (African-American) Director of Greek Affairs in the Department of Student Development for Wayne State University.

Southfield, Mi, Us

Served as the cities first Black (African-American) Chief of Staff and Executive Assistant for the Honorable Mayor Brenda L. Lawrence and eventual Congresswoman of the 13th District.

Dual Doctor Of Philosophy (Ph.D.), African American/African Studies And Economics

Educational Specialist Degree (Ed.S.), Educational Leadership And Policy Studies

Master’S Degree, Counseling Psychology

Bachelor’S Degree, Psychology

Diploma, College Prep

Diploma, College Prep

College Preparatory

Education record

Pre-School