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Dec 9, 2024 | Press Release

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USHCC Launches New Growth Accelerator To Scale Latina Businesses Exceeding $10 Million 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — December 9, 2024: The United States Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce Educational Fund has launched the Latina Growth Accelerator, the first program available in the U.S. dedicated to driving the economic growth of mid-sized Latina-owned businesses that generate over $10 million in revenue.

This new landmark program equips Latina entrepreneurs with the education, networks, and resources needed to accelerate their business trajectory. It is supported by The Kroger Co. Foundation and in collaboration with the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a leader in business development and the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S.

Latinas make up over 14% of all women-owned businesses and contribute $1.3 trillion to the U.S. GDP. Despite their significant economic impact, access to capital remains a barrier for many. The Latina Growth Accelerator looks to address this and other scaling barriers by offering:

      • Expert-led educational sessions on capital readiness to prepare a strategic plan to scale.
      • Small group coaching with seasoned business experts and advisors.
      • Peer and corporate networking with Latina entrepreneurs and corporate
        executives.
      • Capital Connection with leading mid-market capital providers and Mergers and
        Acquisitions experts.
      • Exclusive resources from the USHCC and WBENC networks.

“We created this program to fill a critical gap specifically for Latina entrepreneurs,” said Evelyn Barahona, Senior Vice President of the USHCC Educational Fund. “Together with WBENC, we’re building a community of advisors and advocates to help mid-market Latina businesses achieve transformative growth and reach higher levels of success.”

The inaugural six-week cohort, which launches in Q1 2025, will feature 30 business owners selected from the WBENC and USHCC networks.

“Funding and access to resources are key challenges for women-owned businesses,” said Pamela Prince-Eason, President and CEO of WBENC. “This partnership provides the USHCC and WBENC network of Latina entrepreneurs with the expertise and resources from the WBENC LIFT Financial Center of Excellence and the WBENC Women of Color UNIDAS Latina Community Resource Group to empower Latina businesses. We know that WBENC Women Business Enterprises and all Latina entrepreneurs selected will gain essential business knowledge that will support their continued success.”

The Latina Growth Accelerator will also help participants honor their cultural roots, foster inclusive hiring, and develop diverse strategies to thrive in competitive markets. With investments by The Kroger Co. Foundation, this pivotal program will position Latina business leaders for lasting success and broader market impact.

“At the USHCC, we’re proud that The Kroger Co. Foundation shares in our mission to
empower Latina entrepreneurs, the backbone of our Hispanic business community,” said Ramiro A. Cavazos, President & CEO of USHCC. “This collaboration with WBENC will accelerate business growth for Latina entrepreneurs, expanding their market reach, and strengthen the entire Hispanic business community.”