This year, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana (HCCL) invites New Orleanians to celebrate the 40th year of advancing the local community and progressing Hispanic businesses. The theme of the 2024 celebration is “Onward: Driving Hispanic Businesses Forward.”
Centered on serving a wide spectrum of communities across Louisiana, the mission of the HCCL is to foster the continued economic growth, development and promotion of Hispanic businesses and their associations in Louisiana, and to serve as the conduit between the Hispanic business community and the community at large.
As our mission progresses, efforts to foster a more inclusive community continue to drive us forward, evident in announcements of new partnerships, events and opportunities, alongside enhancing our online presence within both our membership interface and community engagement initiatives. Moving forward, the chamber plans to expand programming, focus on workforce training to create a skilled pipeline of applicants for jobs in the area, and increase our footprint in the community on a greater scale. This concerted effort aims to educate and empower the Hispanic community while working to overcome barriers that impede growth and the creation of generational wealth.
Since its inception, HCCL has maintained its mission to advocate and facilitate a favorable business environment for the Hispanic community and uplift Hispanic business owners in every way possible. Over four decades, we have grown in membership size and organizational efforts, but most importantly, in our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
To mark its 40th anniversary milestone, the chamber proudly unveils its latest venture, “Hispanic Biz Force: Moving Hispanic Businesses Forward.” This dynamic initiative is designed to provide exclusive opportunities and unparalleled access to cutting-edge panel discussions and sessions, aimed at bridging the knowledge gap for business owners through free to low-cost sessions.
Spanning from February to November, these sessions are strategically scheduled across major cities in Louisiana, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and for the first time, Shreveport. Covering a diverse array of topics essential for businesses, participants can expect insightful discussions on sustainability practices, e-commerce and digital marketing strategies, minority business certifications, human resources management, and efficient construction project oversight.
Those who participate in this initiative will gain valuable insights and knowledge from industry experts and leaders. Additionally, the top 10 committed small business owners completing the cohort will have an exclusive opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony during the 2024 Excelencia Gala held on Sept. 20 as part of the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of HCCL, we also continue to celebrate the great contributions and impact of women-owned businesses. HCCL invites local business leaders and entrepreneurs to join us for our ninth annual Women’s Business Symposium on May 10th.
This year’s theme, “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,” continues its legacy of empowering women entrepreneurs with valuable tools for success. This special event fosters connections among women leaders, showcasing community-building efforts and critical knowledge.
The symposium serves as a platform for discussions on economic development, inclusion and equity, emphasizing the role of female innovators. Keynote speaker Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, embodies advocacy and empowerment.
The main panel, “Pearl of Wisdom,” and breakout sessions will empower women in their careers, addressing challenges such as mental health and supporting Hispanic and young professional women.
Our goal is to inspire and empower attendees, emphasizing women’s inclusion in all aspects of life. Don’t miss engaging sessions, uplifting messages, a curated women’s small business market and networking opportunities.
The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana invites all to join us as we celebrate this great achievement throughout 2024. Stay tuned to more announcements and opportunities for our stakeholders and members to participate in. For more information, please visit our website hispanicchamberla.com.
