On November 14, 1932, fourteen prominent Japanese businessmen established the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of New York, Inc. in order to foster and promote friendship and economic relations between the United States and Japan.  Early 20th Century activities included hosting Japanese business and political delegations, including the first visit to the U.S. of an Emperor and Empress in 1975. 

As its ties to New York deepened, the Chamber established more ways to connect with the local community, creating the U.S. Educators Program in 1989 and supporting other initiatives through the charitable giving of the J.C.C. Fund.  And having published a number of texts dealing with Japanese trade, investment and other economic issues over the years, almost 80 years after its founding the Chamber still functions to bring the business leaders of the world's two largest economic superpowers closer together.