Dear IHCC members, friends, and community,
I want to take a moment to recognize the exceptional work of the IHCC team. Their dedication to helping small businesses thrive was on full display at our recent conference expo—one of the best we’ve ever had. The outstanding lineup of speakers, workshops, and exhibitors showcased our deep commitment to empowering the business community and creating real opportunities for growth.
Yet, this year hasn’t been without its challenges. The Illinois budget process left us facing significant financial obstacles, forcing us to make difficult decisions. But let me be clear: we are resilient. Our mission remains as strong as ever, and we continue to support small businesses with the technical assistance, access to capital, and programs they need to succeed. We are more determined than ever to ensure that the entrepreneurs we serve are equipped to thrive.
However, challenges like these reveal a deeper truth: we cannot do this alone. The strength of our community and the future of our economy depends on the choices made by those in positions of power. Decisions that affect our funding and resources directly impact the lives of the small business owners who rely on us, and ultimately, the economic fabric of our society.
So I ask, what are our decision-makers really doing to foster the inclusive, vibrant economy we all envision? Decisions should be based on data, facts, and a commitment to progress, not gossip, rumors, or political maneuvering. It is no longer enough to pay lip service to progress while allowing the very institutions that support small businesses to face avoidable setbacks. We must push past the noise and the distractions—past the politics and the rumors—and focus on the real work that must be done to uplift our communities.
At the IHCC, we are not here to chase after endless contracts or capital at any cost. Our purpose is far greater. We strive to build a decentralized, inclusive economy where every entrepreneur—Latino, Latina, and beyond—has a fair chance to pursue their dreams. Our vision is a world where Latino entrepreneurs have access to the resources and capital they need to turn bold ideas into reality. We envision a future where Latinas earn equal pay for equal work and where opportunity isn’t a privilege but a right for everyone, regardless of background or race.
Let me be perfectly clear: Latinos are not just the future—we are one of the greatest opportunities of our time. The contributions of Latino entrepreneurs to this nation’s economy are already profound, and we are only beginning to unlock our full potential. Investing in Latino businesses is not just the right thing to do; it’s one of the smartest investments decision-makers can make for America’s future. But to get there, we need unity and courage. We need leadership that is not afraid to stand up and make the tough decisions that empower, not hinder our progress. We need to recognize that when Latino businesses grow, we all grow. Our success is America’s success.
To the IHCC team, thank you for your unwavering commitment and strength. And to everyone reading this, now is the time for us to come together, push forward, and ensure that our community—our small businesses—have the resources they need to thrive. The decisions we make today should be based on facts, not fear, on data, not distractions. Together, let’s choose progress, unity, and shared success.
Sincerely,
Jaime di Paulo
