Partnership increases member benefits for both organizations
ATASCADERO — The Hispanic Business Association will merge with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. The Hispanic Business Association’s origins date back nine years to when Sue Hubbard, a farmer in Atascadero and her insurance company, worked with fellow Hispanic businesswomen to discuss the unique needs of minority business owners. It started when I recognized it.
“Partnering with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce is the logical next step,” said Hubbard. “This merger will bring greater benefits to members of the Hispanic Business Association and provide an opportunity for the Chamber of Commerce to expand its role in an underserved segment of the business world.”
The association’s goals are 1) to provide Hispanic business owners with the expertise and resources to succeed in their local market, and 2) to enhance the image, presence, and role of the Chamber of Commerce within the Hispanic business community. and 3) increase the visibility of the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce. North county.
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Maria Elena Garcia, former president of the Hispanic Business Association, is thrilled about the merger.
“Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we had 100 members. About 20% of Atascadero residents and 36% of Paso Robles are Hispanic,” Garcia said. “San Miguel is also growing, so by doing outreach, finding owner needs such as human resources and bookkeeping, and taking those needs to the Board of Atascadero Chamber of Commerce to brainstorm solutions. , we want to help North County businesses.”
Atascadero Chamber President and CEO Josh Cross welcomed the merger.
“We are thrilled to officially partner with the Hispanic Business Association,” he said. “We value Hispanic businesses and want to remove any barriers that may exist on the path to 100% success. ”
The Chamber of Commerce recently hired three bilingual staff members. Two of hers are funded by community grants.
Garcia is ecstatic to get help.
“I’ve run this organization on a volunteer basis, along with other dedicated volunteers. No grants. No funding,” she said. “It means a lot to me that the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce wants to partner with us. One of the best things about this space is that everyone is always ready to help each other. That’s what makes this community great.”
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