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Since its creation in 1991, the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's mission has been "to promote the power and skill of the Utah Hispanic community through support and advocacy as they assume their rightful place in (the) economy and society."
Now, over 30 years later, that mission remains unwavering. The Chamber has renewed its commitment to helping members reach their full potential by guiding them toward opportunities that lead to the realization of their dreams.
To members of Utah's Hispanic community, the Chamber says, "We are committed to constant support, providing value in everything we do, and empowering you as part of Utah's successful and growing community. This is a time of opportunities, new beginnings, growth and mutual support."
The Chamber continues, "As members of the vibrant Hispanic community, we are not just friends and entrepreneurs but a united force that has chosen Utah as our launchpad for success. Together, we are pursuing fulfillment and self-sufficiency and contributing to the community and our prosperity."
If you are a Hispanic business owner or entrepreneur, the Chamber invites you to unite with fellow community members and play a vital role in this dynamic growth. Your contribution is not just valuable — it's essential. By coming together, Hispanic businesses can strengthen, support and inspire one another to reach their goals.
Hispanic-owned businesses play a vital role in the economy
Many people don't fully understand the impact of Hispanic-owned businesses on the economy at large.
According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Latino-owned businesses in the U.S. account for $2.8 trillion in economic output and generate more than $800 billion in revenue each year. The UHCC reports that Hispanic-owned businesses represent the fastest-growing segment of U.S. small businesses. Hispanics account for eight out of 10 new businesses and contribute to the creation of more than 300,000 jobs.
Despite these important contributions, not all of the numbers are positive. The Treasury reported that the pandemic caused "disproportionate harm to Latino businesses and communities." They were more likely to lose jobs and work in high-exposure positions, which put them among the highest mortality rates.
Additionally, the Federal Reserve's 2022 Small Business Credit Survey found that Hispanic small business owners have a harder time getting money to grow or start a business.
These discrepancies highlight the need for greater support in the Hispanic community. That's where the UHCC comes in.
Stronger than ever
The UHCC was no exception to the effects of the pandemic. After nearly folding in the early days of COVID, the Chamber recently partnered with Mountain America Credit Union and opened a new office in MACU's Taylorsville branch last year. Now, they've risen through adversity and doubled down on their efforts to provide the best services and resources possible to the Hispanic business community.
"I'll tell you this, the chamber today is a different chamber than it was a year and a half ago," Board Chairman Randal Serr told KSL.com during an open house last year. "The chamber went through some hard times during COVID. We're back, we're growing. There's a lot of exciting things happening. ... If there's anything that the Hispanic Chamber can do to help Hispanic business people thrive, we're going to do it."
Members of UHCC receive exclusive benefits and access to valuable resources, such as business consulting, networking and access to the Business Academy, where entrepreneurs learn about everything they need to develop a thriving business.
About the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement and success of Hispanic-owned businesses in Utah. Since 1991, the Chamber has been a leader in fostering economic development, offering resources and support for entrepreneurs and advocating for policies that benefit the Hispanic business community.
To learn more about membership and upcoming events, visit utahhcc.com or follow the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.
