The organization has its roots in the
Coalition of 100 Black Women, founded in
New York City in 1970 by Edna Beach and 23 other
African-American women.
Jewell Jackson McCabe, one of the original founders, became President of the New York chapter in 1977 and set out to create a national coalition. Within ten months, the organization had 37 chapters in 20 states. By 1981, the organization had grown to over 500 members, gaining local and national media recognition. They worked with other chapters and women leaders across the United States to form the NCBW. In October 24, 1981, after returning from the National Conference of Black Mayors, it was determined it was imperative to formally extend the institution beyond New York City. As a result, the word "National" was incorporated into the organization's name. NCBW became a not-for-profit organization with representatives from 14 states and the District of Columbia. By 1986, there were 3000 members in 19 states, with 47 chapters altogether. In 1998, the advocacy agenda of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. expanded to include other women of color. ==Chapters==