Kansas City Welcomes the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Annual Convention
Kansas City, Missouri, is buzzing with excitement as it hosts the annual convention for the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) from October 6-8. This celebration marks a significant gathering of Hispanic business leaders and entrepreneurs, all coming together to uplift and empower the Latino business community across the nation.
A Homecoming for the USHCC
Ramiro Cavazos, president of the USHCC, expressed the joy of returning to Kansas City, a place with deep ties to the organization. “Kansas City is the hometown of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and it’s wonderful to come back here,” he said. The USHCC began its journey here nearly forty-five years ago when a group of visionary business leaders convened to advocate for better representation and opportunities for Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Jackie Puente, chair of the USHCC, echoed Cavazos’ sentiments, stating, “It’s our annual convention, the largest convening of Hispanic business in the nation. We are excited to be in Kansas City because it’s our hometown.” The atmosphere is electric, with attendees eagerly hoping to forge new relationships with fellow chamber members and potential customers.
Networking and Opportunity
Elizabeth Gomez, an attendee at the event, shared her enthusiasm for the opportunities presented at the convention. “I am hoping to build relationships with other chamber members, as well as potential customers. It has really proven to be a great event for that,” she said. The convention offers a perfect platform for networking, collaboration, and growth for many Hispanic-owned businesses.
Addressing the Needs of Hispanic Business Owners
Cavazos also emphasized the critical issues being addressed during the convention. He pointed out that access to capital remains a top priority for many small businesses. “Hispanic-owned businesses sadly get turned down 40% higher percentage when they apply for a loan at a big or medium-sized size bank,” he explained. Despite these challenges, the Hispanic business community is thriving, starting new businesses at a faster rate than any other demographic in the country.
Puente declared, “One thing people will learn is the power of the Hispanic business community. Latinas start businesses faster than anybody else in our country. When they get together, when they band together, and leverage their power collectively, there’s nothing they can’t accomplish.”
Spotlight on Local Latino Entrepreneurs
One of the shining stars at the convention is Adriana Suarez, the founder and artist behind Xotu Jewelry. Suarez showcased her jewelry in the Mujeres Mercado section of the Expo Hall, emphasizing her mission to blend artisanal and fine jewelry. “Of course, I want to sell my jewelry and spread the word to other Latinas that there’s jewelry that meets in the middle of artisanal and fine jewelry,” she noted.
With roots in Mexico and a passion for jewelry-making that started at age 14, Suarez is proud to carry on her family’s legacy in the craft. “Two generations, Latinas can lose their language, their culture, and part of my business structure is to share that,” she explained, promoting the importance of cultural heritage within the community.
The Value of Local Chambers
According to Puente, involvement in local chambers is vital for business success. She acknowledged the struggles many small to medium-sized businesses face, adding that membership provides invaluable access to contracts, procurement opportunities, and advocacy. “We can see year after year, folks that are involved in these events get great access, not to just new relationships and new businesses,” Puente remarked.
The convention is a vibrant reminder of the progress and potential within the Latino business community. With countless opportunities for networking and growth, it’s clear that the future is bright for those willing to connect and collaborate.
