Dear IHCC Community,
Five years ago, I embarked on a remarkable journey with the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC), and what a ride it has been! Over the years, our chamber has experienced tremendous growth and has emerged as one of the largest business advocating agencies not just in Illinois but across the country and beyond.
The progress we have made is nothing short of extraordinary. From our humble beginnings, we have expanded our reach and influence, establishing ourselves as a trusted and respected voice in the business community. Our commitment to advocating for the needs and interests of Latino/a businesses has propelled us forward, garnering the support and recognition of industry leaders and stakeholders alike.
One of our most significant accomplishments is the expansion of our team. We have tripled our staff, attracting top talent from various fields, each contributing their unique expertise to our collective efforts. This growth has enhanced our capabilities and allowed us to serve our clients better and provide them with the highest level of support and guidance.
In addition to expanding our workforce, we have also invested heavily in our resources. Our budget has soared to a record high, enabling us to implement innovative initiatives and cutting-edge strategies. This financial backing has been instrumental in fueling our growth and empowering us to make a lasting impact on the business landscape.
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering dedication and hard work of our team and the support of our board of directors. Together, we have overcome countless challenges, embraced opportunities, and continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Our shared vision and commitment to excellence have propelled us forward, driving our success and accomplishments.
Looking ahead, I’m filled with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds. We remain committed to our mission of advocating for Latino/a businesses, championing their causes, and serving as a catalyst for their growth and success. With our expanded team, increased resources, and unwavering passion, we are poised to continue making a meaningful impact on the business landscape for years to come.
As I reflect on the incredible journey I have been on over the past five years, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities and milestones we have achieved. I’m very proud of the growth we have experienced and the impact we have made. Together, we have transformed the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce into one of the leading business organizations in the country, and we are very excited to see what the future has in store for us.
Join us on January 25 for our kickoff event and stay tuned for our 2023 year-end report. Let’s start 2024 off right!
Sincerely,
IHCC President & CEO, Jaime di Paulo