By Shaun Ryan
As the Hispanic population continues to grow in Northeast Florida, Hispanic-owned businesses are increasing in number, as well. Consequentially, the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (FCHCC) is becoming an ever-more important resource throughout the five-county region it serves.
And recognition on the national level has validated its work to promote and facilitate the success of Hispanic-owned businesses here.
This year, for the second time — the first being in 2019 — the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has named FCHCC its Chamber of the Year (Small Category). The award was presented Oct. 6 at the USHCC National Conference in Kansas City.
“It fills me with pride,” said FCHCC President and CEO Monica Hernandez. She credited her team for their work. “I always say my team and I, we leave our hearts on the table each and every single time — every event, every initiative.”
Hernandez was also president and CEO during the 2019 recognition.
“I want our members to equally feel as proud to know that the organization that is representing them works really hard to create partnerships with other organizations to benefit the entrepreneur,” she said.
One could argue that a spirit of entrepreneurship resides in the character of Hispanic people.
“It is in our blood,” Hernandez said. “It is how we were raised. To open a business, to work hard and provide for our families, to plant roots and be successful.”
The FCHCC was founded in 1992. It serves St. Johns, Duval, Clay, Nassau and Baker counties. It fulfills its mission through education, networking, connections and elevation of Hispanic businesses and culture. It currently has nearly 200 members.
Membership is open not only to businesses that are Hispanic-owned. A growing Hispanic population benefits any business seeking a growing customer base.
“If you are a business owner looking to tap into the Hispanic community, we can help with that,” said Hernandez.
The FCHCC provides workshops, networking opportunities and all-day conferences that focus on its core mission.
Recently, it conducted a conference titled Hello, Entrepreneur — Hola, Emprende — that featured panel discussions, presentations and speakers. Among the latter were representatives of the Small Business Association, and Jessie Ball duPont Fund, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, the Community Foundation and more.
The financial component was critical as minority entrepreneurs often face obstacles when seeking capital.
“So, we [FCHCC] work furiously finding ways of creating that connection, of making sure that, as entrepreneurs, they understand the various options available for capital,” said Hernandez.
For instance, funding may be available through grants, alternative types of loans or Community Development Financial Institutions.
The FCHCC also conducts monthly networking events featuring a variety of speakers.
Next on the horizon, the FCHCC is planning its fifth annual Excellence in Business Awards — Talentos Hispanos. Six awards will be presented: Rising Star Award, Up & Coming Business Award, Business Leader of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Corporate Business of the Year and a Business of the Year Award for a woman-owned business.
The event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 13 at WJCT Studios, 100 Festival Park Ave., Jacksonville. Ticket prices are: $125 each for FCHCC members, $150 for non-members and guests. A special ticket sale is planned for Black Friday.
“If you are going to go, buy your tickets on Black Friday as they are going to be discounted,” Hernandez recommended.
Sponsorships are also available. For further information or to purchase tickets, go to fchcc.com/2024-excellence-in-business-awards.
In March, the FCHCC is planning Women del Mañana, a “women in business” event.
To learn more about the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, go to fchcc.com. It can be found on LinkedIn, Facebook (facebook.com/fchcc), X and Instagram (@FCHCCflorida).
