SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Richmond County; Adds More Counties to Georgia Declaration
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
FACT SHEET - DISASTER LOANS
GEORGIA Declaration 20711 & 20712
(Disaster: GA-20013)
Incident: HURRICANE HELENE
occurring: September 24, 2024 & continuing
in the Georgia counties of: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Glynn, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington, Wayne, and Wheeler; for economic injury only in the contiguous Georgia counties of: Baldwin, Bleckley, Brantley, Dodge, Habersham, Hancock, Hart, Henry, Jasper, Lamar, Madison, McIntosh, Mitchell, Monroe, Morgan, Oglethorpe, Rockdale, Spalding, Thomas, Towns, Turner, Twiggs, Walton, Warren, Wilcox, Wilkes, Wilkinson, and Worth; for economic injury only in the contiguous Florida counties of: Baker, Columbia, Hamilton, Jefferson, Madison, and Nassau; for economic injury only in the contiguous North Carolina counties of: Clay, Jackson, and Macon; and for economic injury only in the contiguous South Carolina counties of: Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Barnwell, Edgefield, Hampton, Jasper, McCormick, and Oconee.
Application Filing Deadlines:
Physical Damage: November 29, 2024
Economic Injury: June 30, 2025
If you are located in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
What Types of Disaster Loans are Available?
- Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
- Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles.
What are the Credit Requirements?
- Credit History – Applicants must have a credit history acceptable to SBA.
- Repayment – Applicants must show the ability to repay all loans.
What are the Interest Rates?By law, the interest rates depend on whether each applicant has Credit Available Elsewhere. An applicant does not have Credit Available Elsewhere when SBA determines the applicant does not have sufficient funds or other resources, or the ability to borrow from non-government sources, to provide for its own disaster recovery. An applicant, which SBA determines to have the ability to provide for his or her own recovery is deemed to have Credit Available Elsewhere. Interest rates are fixed for the term of the loan. The interest rates applicable for this disaster are:
| Physical Damage Loan Types | No Credit Available Elsewhere |
Credit Available Elsewhere |
|---|---|---|
| Home Loans | 2.813% | 5.625% |
| Business Loans | 4.000% | 8.000% |
| Non-Profit Organizations | 3.250% | 3.250% |
| Economic Injury Loan Types | No Credit Available Elsewhere |
Credit Available Elsewhere |
|---|---|---|
| Businesses & Small Agricultural Cooperatives | 4.000% | N/A |
| Non-Profit Organizations | 3.250% | N/A |
What are Loan Terms?
The law authorizes loan terms up to a maximum of 30 years. However, the law restricts businesses with credit available elsewhere to a
maximum 7-year term. SBA sets the installment payment amount and corresponding maturity based upon each borrower’s ability to
repay. Borrowers may be required to provide collateral.
What are the Loan Amount Limits?
- Business Loans – The law limits business loans to $2,000,000 for the repair or replacement of real estate, inventories, machinery, equipment and all other physical losses. Subject to this maximum, loan amounts cannot exceed the verified uninsured disaster loss.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – The law limits EIDLs to $2,000,000 for alleviating economic injury caused by the disaster. The actual amount of each loan is limited to the economic injury determined by SBA, less business interruption insurance and other recoveries up to the administrative lending limit. EIDL assistance is available only to entities and their owners who cannot provide for their own recovery from non-government sources, as determined by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
- Business Loan Ceiling – The $2,000,000 statutory limit for business loans applies to the combination of physical, economic injury, mitigation and refinancing, and applies to all disaster loans to a business and its affiliates for each disaster. If a business is a major source of employment, SBA has the authority to waive the $2,000,000 statutory limit.
- Home Loans – SBA regulations limit home loans to $500,000 for the repair or replacement of real estate and $100,000 to repair or replace personal property. Subject to these maximums, loan amounts cannot exceed the verified uninsured disaster loss.
What Restrictions are there on Loan Eligibility?
- Uninsured Losses – Only uninsured or otherwise uncompensated disaster losses are eligible. Any insurance proceeds which are required to be applied against outstanding mortgages are not available to fund disaster repairs and do not reduce loan eligibility. However, any insurance proceeds voluntarily applied to any outstanding mortgages do reduce loan eligibility.
- Ineligible Property – Secondary homes, personal pleasure boats, airplanes, recreational vehicles and similar property are not eligible, unless used for business purposes. Property such as antiques and collections are eligible only to the extent of their functional value. Amounts for landscaping, swimming pools, etc., are limited.
- Noncompliance – Applicants who have not complied with the terms of previous SBA loans may not be eligible. This includes borrowers who did not maintain flood and/or hazard insurance on previous SBA loans.
Note: Loan applicants should check with agencies / organizations administering any grant or other assistance program under this
declaration to determine how an approval of SBA disaster loan might affect their eligibility.
Is There Help with Funding Mitigation Improvements?
If your loan application is approved, you may be eligible for additional funds to cover the cost of improvements that will protect your property against future damage. Examples of improvements include retaining walls, seawalls, sump pumps, etc. Mitigation loan money would be in addition to the amount of the approved loan but may not exceed 20 percent of total amount of physical damage to real property, including leasehold improvements, and personal property as verified by SBA to a maximum of $500,000 for home loans. It is not necessary for the description of improvements and cost estimates to be submitted with the application. SBA approval of the mitigating measures will be required before any loan increase.
Is There Help Available for Refinancing?
- SBA can refinance all or part of prior mortgages that are evidenced by a recorded lien, when the applicant (1) does not have credit available elsewhere, (2) has suffered substantial uncompensated disaster damage (40 percent or more of the value of the property or 50% or more of the value of the structure), and (3) intends to repair the damage.
- Businesses – Business owners may be eligible for the refinancing of existing mortgages or liens on real estate, machinery and equipment, up to the amount of the loan for the repair or replacement of real estate, machinery, and equipment.
- Homes – Homeowners may be eligible for the refinancing of existing liens or mortgages on homes, up to the amount of the loan for real estate repair or replacement.
What if I Decide to Relocate?
You may use your SBA disaster loan to relocate. The amount of the relocation loan depends on whether you relocate voluntarily or involuntarily. If you are interested in relocation, an SBA representative can provide you with more details on your specific situation.
Are There Insurance Requirements for Loans?
To protect each borrower and the Agency, SBA may require you to obtain and maintain appropriate insurance. By law, borrowers whose damaged or collateral property is located in a special flood hazard area must purchase and maintain flood insurance. SBA requires that flood insurance coverage be the lesser of 1) the total of the disaster loan, 2) the insurable value of the property, or 3) the maximum insurance available.
Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending.sba.gov
or other locally announced locations. Please contact the SBA’s Customer Service Center by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
or by phone at 1-800-659-2955 for further assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
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Centro de Operaciones del Este por Desastres
Fecha: 9 de octubre de 2024
Contacto: Mark Ihenacho (404) 331-0333 - Mark.Ihenacho@sba.gov
Comunicado Nro.: 25-015, FL 20711/20712
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La SBA abre un Centro de Recuperación de Negocios en el condado de Richmond; Agrega más condados a la Declaración de Georgia
ATLANTA
– La Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés)
anunció la apertura de un segundo Centro de Recuperación de Negocios en la Comisión Regional de CSRA en Augusta. La SBA está abriendo el Centro para ayudar a las empresas y residentes que fueron afectados por los huracanes Helene, dando a más empresas y residentes la elegibilidad para solicitar el programa de préstamos por desastre a bajo interés de la SBA. La SBA también agregó condados adicionales a la declaración, haciendo que sus préstamos por desastre a bajo interés estén disponibles para más georgianos.
Los representantes de servicio al cliente de la SBA están en todos los Centros de Recuperación por Desastre de FEMA, así como en sus dos Centros en Georgia, donde los sobrevivientes pueden obtener ayuda con su solicitud de préstamo por desastre de la SBA. Los representantes de servicio al cliente de la SBA pueden responder preguntas, ayudar a los sobrevivientes a completar su solicitud de préstamo por desastre, aceptar documentos y proporcionar actualizaciones sobre el estado de una solicitud. Se aceptan visitas sin cita previa, pero puede programar una cita con anticipación. El horario de atención de los Centros de la SBA es el siguiente:
| Centro de Recuperación de Negocios (BRC)
Condado de Lowndes
Centro Turner para las Artes, Anexo de Arte
Valdosta, GA 31601
Horario: de lunes a viernes, de 9 a.m. a 6 p.m.
Sábado, de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m.
Cerrado: Domingo
|
Centro de Recuperación de Negocios (BRC)
Condado de Richmond
Comisión Regional de CSRA
Augusta, GA 30909
Horario: de lunes a viernes, de 9 a.m. a 6 p.m.
Sábado, de 9 a.m. a 4 p.m.
Cerrado: Domingo
|
|---|
Con los nuevos condados agregados, la declaración de desastre ahora cubre Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Bryan, Brooks, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Glynn, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Washington, Wayne
y Wheeler; que son elegibles para Préstamos por Desastre por Daños Físicos y Económicos de la SBA. Las pequeñas empresas y la mayoría de las organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro en los siguientes condados adyacentes son elegibles para solicitar solo Préstamos por Desastre por Pérdidas Económicas (EIDL) de la SBA: Baldwin, Bleckley, Brantley, Dodge, Habersham, Hancock, Hart, Henry, Jasper, Lamar, Madison, McIntosh, Mitchell, Monroe, Morgan, Oglethorpe, Rockdale, Spalding, los condados de Thomas, Towns, Turner, Twiggs, Walton, Warren, Wilcox, Wilkes, Wilkinson y Worth en Georgia; Baker, Columbia, Hamilton, Jefferson, Madison y Nassau
en Florida; Clay, Jackson y Macon en Carolina del Norte; y Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Barnwell, Edgefield, Hampton, Jasper, McCormick y Oconee en Carolina del Sur.
Con los cambios en la Secuencia de Entrega de FEMA, ahora se exhorta a los sobrevivientes a solicitar simultáneamente las subvenciones de FEMA y la asistencia de préstamos por desastre a bajo interés de la SBA para recuperarse por completo. Las subvenciones de FEMA están destinadas a cubrir los gastos necesarios y las necesidades graves que no son pagadas por el seguro u otras fuentes. El programa de préstamos por desastre de la SBA está diseñado para su recuperación a largo plazo, para que se recupere y vuelva a su condición anterior al desastre. No espere la decisión de una subvención de FEMA; solicite en línea y reciba información adicional sobre asistencia por desastre en sba.gov/disaster.
Los solicitantes también pueden llamar al Centro de Servicio al Cliente de SBA al (800) 659-2955 o enviar un correo electrónico a disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
para obtener más información sobre la asistencia por desastre de SBA. Para las personas sordas, con dificultades auditivas o discapacidades del habla, marquen 7-1-1 para acceder a los servicios de retransmisión de telecomunicaciones.
La fecha límite de presentación para devolver las solicitudes por daños a la propiedad física es el 29 de noviembre de 2024. La fecha límite para devolver las solicitudes por pérdidas económicas es el 30 de junio de 2025.
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Acerca de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés)
La Agencia Federal de la PequeñosNegocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) ayuda a impulsar el sueño americano de ser propietario de un negocio. Como el único recurso y voz para las pequeñas empresas respaldado por la fortaleza del gobierno federal, la SBA empodera a los empresarios y propietarios de pequeñas empresas con los recursos y el apoyo que necesitan para iniciar, hacer crecer o expandir sus negocios, o recuperarse de un desastre declarado. Ofrece servicios a través de una extensa red de oficinas de campo de la SBA y asociaciones con organizaciones públicas y privadas. Para obtener más información, visite www.sba.gov.
ATLANTA, GA — March 20, 2025 — The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) proudly announces the election of Socorro Rodríguez as Chair of the Board of Directors for 2025-2027 . The announcement was made during the GHCC’s Annual Membership Meeting in which board leadership transitions and shares success of the previous year and outlook for 2025 which was held on March 12 at Georgia Power’s headquarters in Atlanta. Rodríguez officially assumed this leadership role, marking the beginning of a dynamic new chapter for the Chamber. Rodríguez brings an extensive background of corporate leadership and entrepreneurial insight to the position. As a distinguished leader at Georgia Power , she has demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication throughout her career. Her entrepreneurial spirit was cultivated at an early age while assisting her parents in managing their small business, giving her a unique perspective that combines corporate expertise with hands-on experience in business operations. This blend of skills will serve as a powerful asset in advancing GHCC’s mission to empower Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals throughout Georgia. “It is a tremendous honor to serve as Chair of GHCC. With an exceptional leadership team, we will continue to strengthen the Chamber, create new opportunities, and empower Hispanic businesses as never before. This is a pivotal moment of transformation and growth, and I am committed to ensuring that GHCC remains a catalyst for prosperity and success within our community.” — Socorro Rodríguez , Chair, GHCC Board of Directors Socorro Rodríguez: A Visionary Leader at the Helm of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Socorro Rodríguez, newly appointed Chair of the Board of Directors for the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC), brings a wealth of corporate leadership and community dedication to her new role. As Credit and Collections Manager at Georgia Power , a subsidiary of Southern Company , Socorro oversees the protection and security of company and stakeholder revenue. With nearly 20 years of experience, she has held key positions in Customer Operations, Customer Service , and Regional External Affairs , where she fostered community and economic development in Georgia’s West Region. Socorro’s passion for leadership and community service is rooted in her early entrepreneurial experiences, assisting her parents in their small business. She has since developed a keen understanding of both corporate strategy and grassroots business operations. Her leadership journey is further distinguished by her participation in renowned programs such as the Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), Leadership Troup , and the Georgia Economic Development Academy . She has been recognized as one of Georgia’s 50 Most Influential Latinos for two consecutive years (2023, 2024) and received the prestigious EME Latina Corporate Leader Award . As Chair of the GHCC Board, Socorro’s vision is to strengthen the Chamber’s impact, create new opportunities, and empower Hispanic businesses throughout Georgia. Guided by her commitment to collaboration and growth, she aims to position GHCC as a vital resource and advocate for Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals. Socorro’s dedication to community engagement is evident in her service on various boards, including the Meriwether County Chamber of Commerce and the LaGrange-Troup County Education Task Force . As an advisor to the CHLI program and a steadfast leader within GHCC, she exemplifies the spirit of service and strategic vision. Under her leadership, GHCC is poised to continue its legacy of advocacy and community empowerment, ensuring that Hispanic businesses thrive and succeed in an ever-evolving economic landscape. GHCC Board of Directors Leadership Team Chair of the Board of Directors : Socorro Rodríguez, Georgia Power Chair Elect : Luis III Bonilla, Southern Company Vice Chair : Rosan Petrillo, Kaiser Permanente Treasurer : Andrew Diaz Winkelmann, Diaz Foods Secretary : Sally Wilson, Truist Parliamentarian : Anthony Rodríguez, South Forsyth CID Newly Appointed Board Members The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is also pleased to welcome the newest members of the Board of Directors. These leaders bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives to further strengthen the Chamber’s mission: Vanessa Ibarra , The Shared World Daniel Buitrago , Georgia Power Bill Vega , Albany Amusement Karla Arriola , Park Place “GHCC stands as a beacon of opportunity, championing commerce, connections and community by supporting Hispanic businesses and professionals and working across industries and geography to drive economic impact to the state . With Mrs. Socorro Rodríguez at the helm of our Board, and new executive committee and board members we embark on an exciting era of strategic growth and expanded influence. Together, we will continue to break barriers, build pathways, and ensure that our members have the resources and support needed to thrive and succeed.” — Verónica Maldonado-Torres , President & CEO, Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With this renewed leadership, GHCC reaffirms its commitment to broadening its reach, fostering meaningful opportunities, and solidifying its position as one of the most influential Hispanic chambers of commerce in the United States. In September of 2025, the GHCC will host the United State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Welcome the nation and Latin American to Atlanta. About the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest Hispanic chambers in the United States, dedicated to promoting and supporting Hispanic businesses and entrepreneurs. Through advocacy, networking, and economic development initiatives, GHCC empowers its members and strengthens Georgia’s Hispanic business community. For more information, please visit www.ghcc.org
TIFTON, Ga. – The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) and Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE) partnered up here in Tifton for a business networking group to help small business owners learn and grow for their future. The networking event kicked off with three guest speakers, offering valuable insights on how to start or grow a business and providing key advice for success. Their goal was to serve as a support system for the Hispanic community, providing resources and encouragement for entrepreneurs at various stages. “And, one of the things we wanted to do is bring the Hispanic business community together. Not only are we in the Hispanic community, but there’s a lot of American-owned businesses that are looking to expand into the Hispanic community. So, we’re that bridge, so we have that conversation. We have the conversation for the community of Hispanic business owners where some are just starting out, some have been in business for a couple years and want to scale their business,” said Bill Vega, Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce." Representatives from ACE banking, a non-profit organization, attended the networking event to discuss loan opportunities available to help business owners. However, the true highlight was the networking aspect. With over 10 industries represented, attendees had the chance to exchange knowledge and learn from each other. “It’s just really great to see how many Hispanic business owners are diversifying into different businesses. I find that interesting as someone who works in the creative field. Being able to work with different types of businesses with different styles, designs, and websites,” said Jesse Aguirre, small business owner." The day concluded with a free lunch, where attendees had the opportunity to connect and share their stories with fellow business owners. Gabe Hutton reporting. Copyright 2025 CBS 44 News South Georgia. All rights reserved.
Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jumarie Flores Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce media@ghcc.org | 470-721-4457 Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Announces Launch of 2025 Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute Atlanta, GA – January 17, 2024 – The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC), in partnership with the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development at the University of Georgia, is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Class of the Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI). This six-month leadership development program is designed to empower Hispanic professionals and create lasting impact in their businesses, organizations, and communities. This year’s 2025 CHLI class includes an impressive roster of leaders representing diverse industries and organizations: Albert Murillo , Chief Procurement Officer, Atlanta Housing Authority Alejandra Pelaez , CEO UP Advertising (Woodstock, Ga) Angedith Poggi , (Atlanta, Ga) Ariel Toledo , Dekalb County Police (Dunwoody, Ga) Dr. Armando Castillo , CEO, Millenium Group (Gainesville, Ga) Bryan Abel Salazar , Continous (REV) Real Education Values (Augusta, Georgia) Camilo Marin , CEO, Cal Heating & Air (Duluth,Ga) Carmen Lorenzo Perez , Georgia Power Company (Sandy Spring, Ga) Cesar Olguin , Co-Owner CIC Floors, (Duluth, Ga) Daniel Perdomo , CEO 5 Point Eléctrica (Lilburn, Ga) Fatima Chavez , City of Forest Park (Forest Park, Ga) Gabriela Gonzalez Lamberson , COO, GHCC (Atlanta, Ga) Joseph Cortes , CEO, Georgia Brewers Association Juan Cueto , CEO, Humane Society of Northeast Georgia (Braselton, Ga) Juan Tobon , CEO, New Edge Solution (Suwanee,Ga) Luis Fernandez , CEO Mojitos Bistro (Peachtree Corners, Ga) Luz Del Alba Villa , Vystar Credit Union (Dacula, Ga) Maria Alejandra Bastidas , Executive director, Latina Leads (Suwanne, Ga) Mariana Gomez , CEO, Rackseeker (Woodstock, Ga) Marianela Nanninga , CEO, ToDo Robotics LLC (Alpharetta, Ga) Marie Bertot , Georgia Power Company (Roswell, Ga) Marietta Murton , MDM Arts (Douglasville, Ga) Mario Zuluaga , CEO, Mazdi (Atlanta, Ga) Mauricio Guzmán , CEO, Cronos Contractors (Alpharetta, Ga) Monica Pirela , CEO, Notivision, (Warner Robins, Ga) Norma Mendoza , Cherokee Family Violence Center (Canton, Ga) Rebecca Garner , Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED (Sandy Spring, Ga) Wilkin Lara Mateo , Southern Company Gas (Riverdale, Ga) William Valladares , Georgia Family Connection “Leadership is about more than a title; it’s about courage, vision, and a deep commitment to serve. Through CHLI, we are empowering a generation of business, corporate, and community leaders who will not only transform their businesses, but also ignite change in their communities and beyond,” said Veronica Maldonado-Torres, President and CEO of the GHCC. “The Class of 2025 stands on the threshold of limitless possibilities, ready to lead with purpose, passion, and perseverance. I am incredibly excited about the caliber and impact of this class” 2025 CHLI Schedule: Session I: January 31 - February 1, 2025, Opening Retreat Weekend Session II: March 6, 2025 Session III: April 2, 2025 Session IV: May 8, 2025 Session V: June 6, 2025 Session VI: July 10, 2025 “When an organization invests in leadership development, it empowers individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to actively engage in civic affairs and lead with purpose, ultimately building stronger, more resilient communities,” said Beverly Johnson, director of the UGA J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development. “We are immensely proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce through the Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute. Together, we celebrate their unwavering commitment to nurturing lifelong leaders.” “At Same House, we believe in the power of diversity to drive change. Supporting the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute is key to empowering future leaders and fostering opportunities for all. Leadership is about creating a future where everyone can thrive,” said Rodney Bullard, CEO, Same House. Participants in the 2025 CHLI program will benefit from expert-led training sessions focusing on organizational, business, and community leadership skills. Graduates of the program will join a robust network of alumni who serve as mentors to aspiring leaders within the GHCC and beyond, ensuring a ripple effect of positive impact throughout the Hispanic community. To sponsor the CHLI 2025 program please contact sponsorships@ghcc.org ___________________________________________________________ About the Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute The Cultivating Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) is a partnership between the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) and the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development. CHLI is committed to empowering Hispanic professionals with leadership training and connecting them to a broader network of leaders dedicated to community growth and excellence. About the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC): The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has served for 40 years, a nationally recognized chamber of commerce dedicated to advancing the economic, social, and political interests of Georgia’s Hispanic business community. GHCC serves as the primary voice for Hispanic business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals, advocating for policies that enhance opportunities and support the growth of Hispanic-owned businesses. About the UGA Fanning Leadership Development Institute: The Fanning Leadership Development Institute at the University of Georgia provides world-class leadership training to individuals seeking to enhance their leadership abilities. The Institute is committed to shaping effective leaders who will make an impact in both their professional and personal lives.
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jumarie Flores Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce media@ghcc.org | 470-721-4457 DeKalb County presents Groundbreaking Investment to Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for Business Growth Atlanta, GA – DeKalb County presented the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Business Center (HBC) 501(c)3 with a $100,000 grant investment further strengthening its ability to provide essential business services and resources to Hispanic businesses and residents within the county. This investment underscores DeKalb County’s commitment to fostering economic development and ensuring entrepreneurs have the tools and opportunities to thrive. The GHCC’s Hispanic Business Center, successfully launched the first session of its 7-week business accelerator program ACELERA (Accelerate). ACELERA is a transformative program designed to accelerate the growth and success of local owned businesses in the early stages of operation. This comprehensive program encompasses a combination of in-person and virtual seminars, bite-sized learning capsules, and personalized business consultations for each business. ACELERA covers five critical areas vital for business enhancement: Business model and value proposition, Marketing and Sales, Finance, Operations, and Management. Included in this first ACELERA program cohort are 30 DeKalb County businesses ranging from professional services to hospitality, construction, technology and other key industries driving the county’s and the State of Georgia’s economy forward. GHCC extends its sincere gratitude to DeKalb County’s newly elected CEO, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson for her commitment to support small business education, access and training. Business owners now have the opportunity to take part in this transformative program, designed to equip them with the tools and resources necessary to elevate and expand their businesses and ensure long-term economic sustainability for emerging enterprises. GHCC President & CEO, Veronica Maldonado-Torres , highlighted the transformative impact of this initiative, stating: "When businesses have access to the right education, tools, and connections, they don’t just strengthen their success rate—they create jobs, drive economic activity, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of all communities -we thank Dekalb county and look forward to the success this will generate." DeKalb County CEO, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson , reaffirmed her commitment to fostering Hispanic business growth in the county, stating: " DeKalb County values the Hispanic community's economic impact and growth trajectory Through this program and our partnership with GHCC, we are fostering an inclusive, and thriving business ecosystem in Dekalb ." Meanwhile, GHCC Hispanic Business Center Director, Norma Zuniga-Cardoza, emphasized the importance of this investment in Hispanic business development, stating: " The ACELERA co-hort of 30 was gleaned from a submission of 120 companies. We expect great impact, growth and success stories that shape the business voice of Dekalb ." For more information about the GHCC HBC’s ACELERA program and other program and initiatives, visit ghcc.org. About the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GHCC): The Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has served for 40 years, a nationally recognized chamber of commerce dedicated to advancing the economic, social, and political interests of Georgia’s Hispanic business community. GHCC serves as the primary voice for Hispanic business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals, advocating for policies that enhance opportunities and support the growth of Hispanic-owned businesses.
🎙️ Tune in to a special episode of Business RadioX spotlighting the 40th Anniversary of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce! Our President & CEO, Verónica Maldonado-Torres, joins host Kali Boatright, President & CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, to discuss GHCC's journey, impact, and vision for the future. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! 📲 Listen to the full episode here:
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
