The Institute of Asian Businesses was founded in 1987 in the wake of the Handsworth civil disturbances. Local Asian businessmen wanted to set up an employers’ body that would represent and advance the interests of minority ethnic businesses. This led to independent consultants concluding that Asian businesses, particularly family-owned firms, had needs that were not being satisfied and that assistance and advice to those inner city based businesses, especially those in the manufacturing and wholesale industries, would improve the social fabric of those deprived areas. Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry became involved in setting up public meetings, where it was agreed to set up the IAB, with honorary president Om Parmar chairing the first steering committee. The objectives of the organisation remain the same today as they always were 20 years ago – to offer a professional service of assistance to Asian business, which is complimentary to the services provided by Birmingham Chamber. It also wants to encourage new Asian businesses to start up and assist those already in existence to grow even more. There is also the intention to provide an effective voice within the Birmingham chamber and elsewhere of the views and opinions of IAB members. Today, IAB members benefit from a wide range of business support through Birmingham Chamber. The benefits include: ● Networking and business growth ● Specialist business advise from a team of professional advisers ● Representation on business issues at local and national government level