Hispanic, Black Chambers Join in Jersey




In an effort to bring more businesses of color into the fold, the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) and the statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCC-NJ) announced a strategic partnership and alliance in Newark this week. 


The two organizations, which represent thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners of colors across the state, will join forces - economically, socially and philosophically - in a bold and cogent attempt to tap into the lucrative coffers of state and private industry vendor contracts. "This is an effort to create a single voice for more man 140,000 AfricanAmerican and Hispanic businesses on various issues, including jobs and vendor contracts," said John Harmon, president and CEO of the AACCNJ.

Harmon added that in the wake of Hurricane Sandy and Super Bowl XLVBX-which will be held at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., in February 2014- opportunities for minority- and women-owned business enterprises (M/ WBEs) have never been more plentiful. He added that by having the two largest minority chambers of commerce uniting, "more M /WBEs will be able to tap into an array of available and multimillion-dollar contracts."

The Garden State has received billions of dollars in federal and private aid to repair and rebuild communities following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy in October. Additionally, because New Jersey and New Yqrk will share hosting duties for Super Bowl 2014 in February at the Metlife Stadium, a win-win situation is on tap for small business owners. SHCC Chairman Carlos Medina agreed.

"Joining forces with the AACCNJ to address these emergent topics is part of our mission," he said.

Several New Jersey business owners lauded the move by the two organizations, calling it a big victory for minority entrepreneurs across the state.

"Anything that can assist minority entrepreneurs with landing and securing business both in the short-term and long-term," said Avis Yates Rivers, president of Technology Concepts Group Incorporated, atechnology company based in Somerset, N.J.

To find out more about the AACCNJ and the SHCCNJ, visit www.aaccnj.com and www.shccnj. com.

By GLENN TOWNES