Business
Clock Running Out on Antitrust Bill Targeting Big Tech
WASHINGTON — Critics of the country’s largest tech companies branded the last few months “Hot Antitrust Summer” because they hoped that Congress would vote on new regulations for Amazon, Apple, Google and Facebook.
The legislation’s chances of passing before Labor Day melted away instead. The Senate is expected to take up one last major matter of business before its August recess, debating and voting on the Democrats’ large climate, tax and health care package.
The failure to secure a vote is a setback for the politicians, activists and regulators who believe that Big Tech has too much control over commerce, communications and culture. After Labor Day, Washington will turn much of its attention to the midterm elections instead of major legislation. And if Republicans regain the majority in Congress, the regulations have a far smaller chance of being taken up.
“One of the senators actually said to me, ‘Maybe you’re just ahead of your time,’” Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat and the main driver of the legislation, said in an interview. “And I said to them, ‘Yeah, but being ahead of your time doesn’t mean that your time hasn’t come.’ And at some moment your time comes.”
Supporters of Ms. Klobuchar’s bill, called the American Innovation and Choice Online Act, argue that a national update to antitrust law would allow smaller businesses to thrive by reining in big tech companies. The bill would bar the companies from prioritizing their own services over those of their rivals. So Amazon, for example, could not show its own Amazon Basics batteries before those made by Duracell, and Google might have to put its own restaurant reviews on par with sites like Yelp in search results.
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The bill’s backers cheered in May when Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic majority leader, said privately that he would put it up for a vote early in the summer. It was approved by the Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support, and Ms. Klobuchar and Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, her primary Republican co-sponsor, said they had the votes for the legislation to succeed if the full Senate voted on it.
The tech companies poured tens of millions of dollars into lobbying against the bill. Groups funded by the companies put ads on the air in swing states, saying the legislation was ill-advised at a time of rampant inflation. The chief executives of Google, Apple and Amazon all personally lobbied against the bill.
The industry also argued that there could be unintended consequences for speech online, as the bill could be interpreted as also limiting how much these companies can moderate content, including hateful posts. The bill’s supporters say their concerns are unfounded, but four Democratic senators in June called for amending the bill to ensure it was not misinterpreted.
Supporters of the bill have tried to continue putting pressure on Mr. Schumer to bring it up for a vote, highlighting work his children have done for the big tech companies.
They argued that if lawmakers had to vote on the bill, it would pass. But last month at a fund-raiser, Mr. Schumer said he didn’t believe the measure had the 60 votes to overcome a filibuster. And he said he would not put it on the floor until he had a better sense that it could pass, said a person with knowledge of his comments, who would speak only anonymously because the discussion was private. Mr. Schumer’s comments were first reported by Bloomberg.
“All I can tell you is that Klobuchar was very disappointed when she was led to believe it was going to be brought up in this time frame and it’s not brought up, and we don’t have a lot of time between now and the election,” Mr. Grassley said in an interview.
Other priorities in the Senate like the climate, energy and tax package brokered between Senator Joe Manchin III, Democrat of West Virginia, and Mr. Schumer have also brushed antitrust matters aside. Before the surprise reconciliation deal on that bill, slow work on a veteran health care bill, a sweeping gun control measure and a chip manufacturing bill dominated the legislative calendar.
Some of the bill’s co-sponsors said the bill was a low priority for them as they prepared to leave Capitol Hill for the month. Senator Mazie Hirono, Democrat of Hawaii, said she was focusing on legislation that was being discussed before the August recess.
Ms. Klobuchar said that she had spoken with Mr. Schumer and discussed putting the bill up for a vote in the fall.
“I think he’s committed to working on this and getting this through,” she said. There is also a similar proposal in the House of Representatives that has bipartisan support.
A spokesman for Mr. Schumer said in a statement that the majority leader was “working with Senator Klobuchar and other supporters to gather the needed votes and plans to bring it up for a vote.”
Sarah Miller, the executive director of the liberal American Economic Liberties Project, said that should the efforts to pass a new antitrust law in Washington fizzle, it would only make the role of agencies like the Federal Trade Commission, which sued to block Meta’s acquisition of a virtual reality company last month, and state lawmakers more important in reining in Big Tech.
“Fortunately there’s not only one sheriff in town,” she said, “although I think Congress’s ability to directly promote fairness and competition in digital markets will continue to be an essential project.”
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Business
ByBlack, Powered by U.S. Black Chambers, Awards $1,000 Microgrant to Student Entrepreneur at 2025 Durag Fest in Charlotte, NC
(CHARLOTTE – July 17, 2025) – In a collaboration to spotlight the next generation of Black entrepreneurs, ByBlack, powered by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC), and the DuGhood Foundation launched the “Pop Up & Pitch” Grant Competition during the 7th Annual Durag Fest, a vibrant Juneteenth celebration of Black creativity and culture in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The competition awarded a $1,000 microgrant and business development package to student entrepreneur Aalliyeh Clinton, founder of Monneah’s Engineered Materials, whose innovative, bio-friendly, and culturally inspired lab coats captured the attention of the live audience and expert judging panel. Clinton, a Morgan State graduate and current Johns Hopkins University graduate student, is redefining STEM apparel by infusing fashion, sustainability, and cultural identity into the lab space.
Hosted by Zhané Chesson, Co-Founder of So You Graduated, Now What?, finalists had 5 minutes to present their ventures before a live audience and panel of judges, including:
Finalists included Zion Asamoah (Goons and Goblins Clothing), Kenan Moore (Historically Cultured), Avianna Corbett (Lucky Spot Nail Spa), Kneisha Gabriel (KneishaX LLC), and Aalliyeh Clinton (Monneah’s Engineered Materials). After two compelling rounds, Clinton emerged as the winner, earning not just the microgrant, but a full business support package including:
“This opportunity isn’t just about funding—it’s about creating visibility, connection, and momentum,” said Alicea Gay. “ByBlack exists to elevate Black-owned businesses through access, exposure, and certification. Supporting young innovators like Aalliyeh reflects our mission to build a stronger ecosystem for the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.”
Clinton aims to reimagine what lab gear looks like and represents. “This grant and the resources that come with it are game-changing,” said Clinton. “I want scientists to feel seen, inspired, and proud of their culture even in sterile lab spaces. Monneah’s is about representation in research—where fashion meets innovation.”
The ByBlack Platform, powered by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., is the nation’s first national certification program and digital directory exclusively dedicated to Black-owned businesses. Created to address the historical lack of visibility and access faced by Black entrepreneurs, ByBlack provides both Verified and Certified business listings, enabling companies to gain formal recognition, connect with consumers actively seeking to support Black-owned brands, and unlock contracting and partnership opportunities with major corporations and government agencies.
Durag Fest, held annually in Charlotte in honor of Juneteenth, is a celebration of Black creativity, culture, and community. This year’s festival served as the perfect stage to highlight student entrepreneurs shaping the future.“Durag Fest has always been about celebrating the fullness of Black expression, from culture and creativity to enterprise,” said Lisa Michelle, Founder of Durag Fest. “Partnering with ByBlack to spotlight student entrepreneurs brings that vision to life. Aalliyeh and all the finalists remind us that our culture fuels innovation, and when we invest in young talent, we invest in our collective future.”
“Events like this bring our mission full circle,” said Cathay Dawkins of CMBCC. “Supporting youth entrepreneurship aligns with our goal of building wealth and networks locally. We encourage all Charlotte-based business owners to get involved—especially now, with discounted memberships available. Partnering with USBC and ByBlack opens doors that lead to funding, mentorship, and national recognition.”
For more information on ByBlack and how to certify or list your business, visit www.byblack.us.
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About USBC:
The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.
Business
CIAA Tournament to Remain in Baltimore Through 2029: A Continued Celebration of Black Excellence
(CHARLOTTE – July 20, 2025) — It’s official: the CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament will remain in Baltimore through 2029. The news, announced last month, cements Charm City’s position as the long-term home of one of the nation’s most significant celebrations of Black collegiate athletics and culture.
Announced on June 18, 2025, by the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the extension comes after years of successful collaboration between the City of Baltimore, state leadership, local businesses, and the CIAA. Since its in-person debut in Baltimore in 2022, the tournament has proven to be more than a sporting event—it’s a cultural cornerstone, a family-friendly celebration, and a powerful economic engine for the region.
“Baltimore’s leadership continues to demonstrate the importance of the CIAA to its community and culture,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. “They understand and value the event’s impact, one that extends far beyond the game.”
A Cultural and Economic Powerhouse
Far more than a sporting event, the CIAA Tournament has emerged as a national gathering point for Black excellence. With events such as Education Day, Fan Fest, and the Career Expo, the weeklong celebration draws tens of thousands of fans, alumni, and students—energizing the city and strengthening ties across generations.
According to Visit Baltimore and city officials, the 2025 tournament generated a $27.4 million economic impact, with $19.8 million in direct spending. It supported 1,487 jobs and contributed $2.4 million in state and local taxes.
According to Visit Baltimore and city officials, the 2025 tournament generated a $27.4 million economic impact, with $19.8 million in direct spending. It supported 1,487 jobs and contributed $2.4 million in state and local taxes. Since arriving in Baltimore, the tournament has generated over $109 million in economic impact, with $4.8 million spent with minority-owned businesses.
Strong Public and Private Support
This continued success is backed by a coalition of stakeholders, including Governor Wes Moore, Mayor Brandon Scott, Visit Baltimore, and the Local Host Committee, along with community organizations and HBCU leaders.
“The CIAA is more than a basketball tournament; it’s a cultural institution,” said Governor Moore. “Its continued presence will not only boost our economy but also advance our shared commitment to equity and opportunity for all Marylanders.”
Baltimore-based powerhouse Under Armour will also extend its sponsorship through 2029, reinforcing its deep local roots and commitment to student-athletes. “This collaboration goes far beyond apparel,” said CEO Kevin Plank. “It represents shared values, community impact, and a commitment to excellence.”
Additionally, the city, state, and partners have collectively contributed $1.6 million to the CIAA General Scholarship Fund, benefiting students at the 13 CIAA-member HBCUs.
HBCU Legacy, DMV Access
As the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference, the CIAA (founded in 1912) continues to set the bar for Division II sports, equity, and academic achievement. Its tournament brings alumni and supporters from across the country, and Baltimore’s central location in the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) region makes it a perfect hub. It’s also home to Bowie State University, the only CIAA school in Maryland.
“This tournament isn’t just basketball games. It’s a celebration of Black culture, Black history, and Black excellence,” said Mayor Brandon Scott. “We are proud to serve as its home.”
Looking Ahead
With the tournament locked in through 2029, Baltimore has a unique opportunity to deepen its legacy as a national beacon of Black cultural celebration, economic growth, and educational empowerment.
The next CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament will be held February 24 to March 1, 2026, at CFG Bank Arena.
To learn more about the CIAA and its impact, visit theciaa.com.
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