Kerry Praises Work of Hispanic Businesses BizBlock
Gives Keynote Speech at U . S . Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Event
Senator John Kerry ( D-Mass .) praised the hard work and success of Hispanic businesses for their contribution to the economic growth of America . Speaking at the opening reception of the U . S . Hispanic Chamber of Commerce ’ s Annual Legislative Conference Monday , Kerry also said there is more work to be done .
“ Our country ’ s Hispanic entrepreneurs exemplify American innovation , hard work and the American dream ,” said Kerry , the Ranking Democrat on the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship . “ Their energy and creativity has turned into real economic success in our country , with the number of Hispanic businesses increasing at three times the national average .”
There are 1.6 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the U . S . – 13 percent of those are small firms . Last year more than 9,000 Hispanic-owned small businesses got nearly $ 1.4 billion in working capital through the 7 ( a ), 504 and micro-loan lending programs creating 42,000 jobs in their communities .
“ Investing in American innovation and business
Tampa Bay Hispanic Monthly Luncheon
@ Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City !
development is the cornerstone of long-term economic advancement in minority communities ,” Kerry said . “ We can and must be doing more to foster entrepreneurship in the Latino community . I am working with business leaders around the country to make sure all small firms get their fair share of federal contracts , capital to build and grow their businesses , and expanded access to technology like highspeed internet . We can also work together on realistic , comprehensive immigration reform that recognizes the value that immigrants provide to our communities and businesses .
“ Every small business deserves a fair chance to succeed . The Hispanic-owned firms throughout our nation have increased our economic strength by $ 222 billion . I am committed to helping these firms continue to grow , create jobs , promote the development and use of innovative technologies , and add to the long-term growth of our economy .”
Fundraiser in support of Karen Perez
Thursday , May 25th 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM At Mirage – 3605 W . Hillsborough Ave ., Tampa
Please join us on this special evening in support of Karen Perez , Democratic Candidate Florida State Representative . There will be a complimentary buffet , Latin Jazz and a silent auction . All proceeds will go to the Karen Perez campaign .
R . S . V . P . To Attend : ( 813 ) 901-5292 . To Make A Donation : www . KarenPerez1Florida . com
1st . Fridays R 4 Networking Socials ! • May / June 06 •
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