Profile: Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

About The Chamber

In 1986, several dedicated Hispanic leaders realized the enormous potential of the Hispanic business community in the State of Maryland and envisioned the need for a state-wide organization to represent its interests before the public and private sectors. Later that year, the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (MDHCC) was incorporated in the state of Maryland, creating a structured organization aimed at developing a business network that would provide the Hispanic community with cohesion and strength. Since its inception, the MDHCC has worked towards bringing the issues and concerns of the state's thousands of Hispanic-owned businesses to the forefront of the state's economic agenda. Throughout its nearly 20-year history, the Chamber has enjoyed outstanding working relationships with the Governor, the state legislature and its leaders, Members of Maryland's Congressional delegation and the current and former White House Administrations. Through its association with a network of local Hispanic Chambers of Commerce and Hispanic business organizations, the MDHCC effectively communicates the needs and potential of Hispanic enterprise to the public and private sector in several ways including:

• Implementing and strengthening state programs that assist the economic development of Hispanic firms;
• Increasing business relationships and partnerships between the corporate sector and Hispanic-owned businesses;
• Promoting international trade between Hispanic businesses in the United States and Latin America;
• Monitoring legislation, policies and programs that affect the Hispanic business community; and providing technical assistance to Hispanic business associations and entrepreneurs.

Annual Maryland Hispanic Business Conference. Each year the MDHCC joins with other local Chambers in hosting its Annual Maryland Hispanic Business Conference featuring dozens of exhibitors from both inside and outside the state. The conference is the state's largest networking venue for Hispanic businesses and Fortune 1000 corporations interested in the Hispanic market. Over several days, the state conference affords Hispanic vendors and corporate buyers the opportunity to establish partnerships where business opportunities can flourish. In addition, the conference offers various sessions and discussions on business development, management training, innovative business trends and solutions, as well as a focus on current issues that impact the Hispanic entrepreneur.

Annual Maryland Legislative Business Reception. Each year during the session of the Maryland State Legislator, the MDHCC hosts its annual Legislative Business Reception. The reception provides chamber members, Hispanic business leaders, and corporate executives the opportunity to discuss legislative policy issues that impact the small business community. Hispanic chamber executives also utilize this opportunity to meet with their state legislators.
Annual Hispanic Business Awards Dinner. Every year, the MDHCC recognizes outstanding contributions made in the area of business by Hispanic entrepreneurs, as well as those persons and entities that have provided support to the establishment, growth and retention of Hispanic businesses in the state of Maryland.