"Latinos A Morir" (LAM) Means Business by Giovanni Gonzalez

The concept of Latinos A Morir started out as a gathering of friends at a house in Berkeley in 2001. Although the initial group of friends had different majors, ethnicity, and nationality, we all had a key values in common: ambition, care for our community, love of life and Latin American culture.

Now, LAM consists of 2,700+ members and we all come from very diverse backgrounds: country of birth, industry, age, hobbies, etc. However, we all share the same values from that initial group of friends back in 2001.

For this reason, LAM is adding opportunities for our members to interact at a more personal and professional level than just dancing. [Don't worry, that will never change!]

Latinos A Morir has partnered with Hispanics Mean Business to provide intimate events for those interested on personal growth, community improvement, and professional success.

Hispanic Business Owners gathered at the 30th Annual CHCC Convention

The California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CHCC) hosted its 30th Annual State Convention on August 19-22, 2009. This year’s convention took place at the U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego, California. The CHCC is the fastest growing regional organization in California.

The goal of this convention was to address issues of relevance to more than 720,000 Hispanics businesses and over 65 local Hispanic chambers in California. Some of this year’s speakers included Jim Steeg, COO San Diego Chargers, Moctesuma Esparza, Chairman and CEO Maya Entertainments Group Inc, California Latino Water Coalition (CLWC) Chairperson -actor and comedian- Paul Rodriguez, and Chairman of the CHCC Ken Macias.

“As Hispanic business ownership continues to rise, it is important that we work together to have our voice heard from the boardrooms of corporate America to the halls of government. This convention serves a valuable role in making that happen,” said Joel Ayala, President and CEO of the CHCC.

The convention featured business procurement/matchmaking sessions with companies such as Hyundai, Sate Farm, PG&E, Sempra, AT&T and more. Some of the corporate sponsors of the convention were Wells Fargo, Verizon, Aetna, Walmart and South West Airlines.

The four day convention was a great opportunity for relationship building with chambers, businesses and corporate partners. With a number of events and workshops catered specifically to the concerns of Hispanic business-owners new entrepreneurs had the chance to learn from successful business veterans. As a young business owner, I felt honored to be part of this experience. Next year’s convention will take place in Los Angeles, California.

Hispanic Heritage Month ROI

In September 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Week. Twenty years later it became a month-long celebration (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15). During this time, America celebrates the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spanish-speaking countries.

The month of September is a historically significant one for many Latin American countries. September 15 is the anniversary of the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16 and 18.

With over 45 million Hispanics in the U.S., it is crucial for marketers to be aware of this important time of year for Hispanic culture. Hispanic Heritage Month presents an opportunity for businesses to integrate themselves into this growing community by showing support. It is important that this support not be seen as token, and one of the best ways to do this is via sponsorship.

There are many levels of sponsorship, so businesses of all sizes can participate in supporting Hispanic Heritage month. No matter who you are or what you sell, there is a place for your brand in the Hispanic community, especially during this time. Hispanics have a strong sense of loyalty and reciprocity, so if you genuinely give to the Hispanic community, rest assured that you will get back. Your ROI will skyrocket if you get creative and position your support strategically during this month.

Hispanic Heritage Month means a great deal to Hispanics. It is the culmination of years of efforts at recognition by American culture. Integrating yourself into the Hispanic market by supporting Hispanic Heritage month could very well set you apart from other brands. Those who support Hispanic Heritage Month appear to be sincerely supporting Hispanic heritage, and not just supporting their own business. Contact me for more information about the numerous opportunities to take part in this special time of year for Hispanics.

"Hispanics Mean Business" on Meetup.com