Awards Gala Magazine 2024

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Lea ng the Way to Succe for Sma

Busine O s in New J sey

Elisa
Ulises
Blenda Pinto

Creating vibrant communities

Creating vibrant communities

When we come together to build stronger communities, we give our time, energy, and ideas to help influence positive change. And as we watch progress take root, we grow as well.

When we come together to build stronger communities, we give our time, energy, and ideas to help influence positive change. And as we watch progress take root, we grow as well.

Bienvenidos

to the 2024 Gala of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey!

I am honored to welcome you to this year’s Annual Awards Gala.

Tonight, we gather as one familia to celebrate empowerment, progress and the transformative impact of the remarkable achievements of our members and the transformative journey of our Chamber over the past 35 years.

Today, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of New Jersey has a thriving network of over 7,000 members. With our unwavering commitment, we will continue to build a legacy of resilience, entrepreneurial excellence and cultural pride that empowers the Hispanic community while enriching New Jersey.

This year, we proudly celebrated the 10th Anniversary of our flagship Hispanic Entrepreneurship Training Program (HETP)—a cornerstone initiative that has equipped countless entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence to thrive.

Our numerous programs, including NJEDA’s Small Business Bonding Readiness Program, EXPORTpreneurs and the Latina Entrepreneurship Training Series, highlighted our commitment to fostering innovation and creating impactful opportunities. As a proactive organization and business advocates, we focus on programs that provide education, networking and growth opportunities, ensuring Hispanic business owners have the resources they need to succeed.

We also embraced moments of celebration and connection with new offerings, such as our Countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup event at American Dream—a showcase of our forward-thinking approach and dedication to uniting and promoting the community through shared passions and the world’s biggest sport. This is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for economic growth, cultural celebration and community pride. Such opportunities remind us of the importance of strategic preparation and vision, ensuring our members are equipped to participate and succeed.

These achievements are a testament to the perseverance, discipline and dedication of our members, board, volunteers, staff, community and corporate partners. Together, we’ve transformed challenges into opportunities and solidified the Chamber’s role as a driving force for the success of Hispanic business in New Jersey and in the United States. And as we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize that our work is far from over to truly scale from micro to unicorn. In the new year, we will continue to explore bold, relevant initiatives that address our business owners and community’s evolving needs. This includes leveraging our growing network, creating access to capital and new markets, and embracing digital transformation to close the technology gap for minority entrepreneurs.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Here’s to our 35 years of impact and to an even brighter and more prosperous future for the SHCCNJ and the communities we serve.

And, as I always say, “Quien lo vive es quien lo goza”—those who embrace the journey are the ones who savor the joy.

Chairman, Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

Atentamente, Luis O. De La Hoz

Carlos Medina

A NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT AND CEO

Dear Familia:

I welcome you to the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey’s Gala in the spirit of the holiday season and our shared success.

As of 2024, our Chamber has surpassed 7,000 members—a remarkable milestone reflecting our community’s strength and growth. Looking ahead, 2025 offers incredible opportunities for Hispanic businesses to thrive and lead meaningful change. Through our flagship programs, including the Latina Entrepreneurship Training Series, the Hispanic Entrepreneurship Training Program and NJEDA’s Small Business Bonding Readiness Program, we continue equipping members to excel with public and private contracts.

Latinos’ impact on the U.S. economy is undeniable. With a GDP of $3.7 trillion, we would rank as the fifth-largest economy globally. In New Jersey alone, Latinos contribute over $100 billion in GDP, underscoring our vital role in driving the state’s growth.

However, challenges remain. Let’s remember that as of 2023, Latinos held just 6.3% of executive roles, and Latinas accounted for only 1% of C-suite executives, making them the most underrepresented group in corporate leadership. Correspondingly, Governor Murphy’s 2024 Disparity Study revealed further inequities: while Hispanic Americans represent 11.65% of available construction businesses in New Jersey, they receive only 1.51% of contracts in this sector.

In October, I proudly represented our Chamber at Governor Murphy’s roundtable, joining legislators and stakeholders to address these

disparities. Together, we explored legislative and administrative solutions to ensure equitable access for Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs).

Know that the SHCCNJ is committed to fostering partnerships across the public and private sectors, leveling the playing field, driving innovation and expanding economic opportunities. With your support, we will continue to expand on our successes, turning these challenges into tangible progress that benefits Latino businesses.

And as we prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where New Jersey will host the finale, drawing the most prominent soccer fans from around the world, we will affirm the immense power of our collective influence. This global event provides a unique platform to highlight our community and businesses’ strength, vibrancy and potential.

In 2025, we will transform challenges into opportunities and solidify our role in creating a more inclusive and prosperous future. We will drive our growth through merit, resilience, creativity and determination.

Sincerely,

We salute the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey for your steady commitment to the state.

At PNC, we celebrate those members of our community who help make it shine more brilliantly. Thank you for the difference you make every day.

This commitment led him to the United States Marine Corps, where he served with distinction for nearly thirteen years, including deployments to combat zones and assignments at American embassies around the world. His first posting was in Nairobi, Kenya, where he was trained by Sergeant Shane Childers, who later became the first American service member killed in the Iraq War. The impact of Shane’s sacrifice, and the lessons learned from his service, shaped JW’s deep sense of duty to those who serve and their families.

Upon completing his military service, JW transitioned to law enforcement, serving more than 20 years as a Sergeant and Instructor with the New York State MTA Police Department. His contributions went far beyond the badge. JW developed the Active Shooter curriculum for the department, training officers to respond safely and decisively under the most stressful conditions. His approach to policing emphasizes de-escalation and principled decision-making, ensuring that every officer can protect the public while safeguarding lives on both sides of the encounter.

However, JW’s passion for service didn’t stop with his military and law enforcement career. He also pursued his childhood dream of acting, enrolling in the prestigious William Esper Studio under the tutelage of Terry Knickerbocker, while balancing his role as a police officer. In 2012, JW’s journey in the entertainment industry reached new

JW Cortez

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

JW Cortés’s life is a testament to the power of resilience, service, and unwavering dedication to community and country. Born and raised in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, in a neighborhood the NYPD dubbed Little Vietnam due to the rampant violence, drugs, and gangs, JW faced challenges early on that could have easily derailed his path. Growing up during the crack and AIDS epidemic that ravaged his neighborhood, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of the underserved. But JW’s story is not one of defeat; it is one of triumph. Inspired by his father, a proud U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, JW committed himself to a life of service, determined to rise above the adversity that surrounded him.

heights when he was selected from over 200,000 applicants to join NBC’s Stars Earn Stripes. It was there that Navy SEAL legend Chris Kyle (American Sniper) gave him a piece of advice that would define the next chapter of his life: “If you can ever serve those who serve us, you should.”

Inspired by Kyle’s words, JW devoted his life to activism and philanthropy, using his growing platform to support military families, first responders, and underserved communities. As President of The Detective Rafael Ramos Foundation, JW spearheaded efforts to bring vital resources to communities in need, securing nearly a million dollars in funding and delivering programs that uplift thousands. From annual backpack giveaways to pandemic relief efforts in Brooklyn, his leadership has made a lasting impact on New York City.

JW’s work has attracted the support of influential figures like Gary Sinise, Amanda Serrano, David Zayas, and Taya Kyle, elevating the Foundation’s mission to new heights. His efforts culminated in the renaming of PS 54K in Brooklyn to The Detective Rafael Ramos School, a permanent reminder of the lives he’s touched and the legacy he continues to build.

His influence extends beyond philanthropy. In addition to his work on shows like GOTHAM, Law & Order SVU, and the

highly anticipated NETFLIX feature from Academy Award winning director Kathryn Bigelow, JW has used his voice on stages across the country to advocate for veterans and first responders. In 2015, he addressed Congress at the GI Film Festival as part of his mission to ensure accurate portrayals of veterans in Hollywood. And in 2013, he performed the iconic song “A Change is Gonna Come” alongside Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters at Madison Square Garden for the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s Stand Up for Heroes, a performance Rolling Stone Magazine called unforgettable.

JW Cortés is not just a public servant, actor, or philanthropist—he is an inspiration. From the streets of Brooklyn to the forefront of entertainment, public service, and community leadership, JW’s story shows us that no matter where you come from, with heart, determination, and purpose, you can rise above any obstacle. Today, as a father of two sons, an actor, a veteran, and a proud Boricua, JW continues to embody the spirit of service that defines the very best of our city. His journey serves as a reminder that one person, fueled by passion and purpose, can indeed make a lasting impact on the world.

Luis A. Miranda, Jr.

ICON OF THE YEAR AWARD

Luis A. Miranda, Jr. has four decades of experience as a leader in the public, private, political, and advocacy sectors. He arrived in New York City from Puerto Rico in 1974 to study psychology at NYU but soon found himself drawn to community action when he organized his neighbors to fight for better schools for their children. In the 1980s he was a special advisor for Hispanic Affairs to Mayor Ed Koch, and he continued to serve in key roles for the Dinkins and Giuliani administrations. As a founding partner of the MirRam Group, Miranda has consulted on several successful political campaigns, including the senatorial campaigns of Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator Chuck Schumer, and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Most recently he managed New York Attorney General Letitia James’ successful reelection. Miranda is the founding president of the Hispanic Federation and is currently the chairperson of the Latino Victory Fund, the Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance, Viva Broadway and the Public Theater. He is a board member of The City, and former chair of the Center for Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies at the CUNY Graduate Center.

Miranda’s memoir, Relentless: My Story of the Latino Spirit That Is Transforming America, was released by Hachette Books in both English and Spanish on May 7, 2024. In Relentless, he shares the fascinating narrative of his life and career—from his early days as a radically minded Puerto Rican activist to his decades of political advice and problem-solving.

Luis and his wife, Dr. Luz Towns-Miranda, have three children, Luz Miranda-Crespo, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Miguel Towns. Now as adults, Luz Miranda-Crespo and Lin-Manuel Miranda are married to Luis Crespo and Vanessa Nadal, respectively, with children of their own. For over 40 years, Luis Miranda and Dr. Towns-Miranda have been community activists since their first date in 1978, and since HAMILTON’s critical and commercial success, the family has expanded their work with additional resources through the Miranda Family Fund and Miranda Family Fellowship. Luis shepherds all the family’s philanthropic endeavors, which span increasing people of color’s representation throughout the arts and government, ensuring access to women’s reproductive health, and preserving and strengthening the arts in Puerto Rico.

Vanessa Coppes

LATINA TRAILBLAZER OF THE YEAR

Vanessa Coppes is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and the CEO and Editor-in-Chief of BELLA Magazine, a premier women’s lifestyle publication. With a passion for empowering women, Vanessa has built a career focused on uplifting and inspiring others through media, beauty, and community engagement.

Born in the Dominican Republic, Vanessa moved to the U.S. where she pursued her studies in journalism and marketing. She is known for her entrepreneurial spirit, having co-founded several successful ventures, including ETTWomen, a network dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs thrive. Her journey to leadership at BELLA began with her roles in the beauty industry and as a contributing writer for the magazine, eventually leading her to acquire the publication.

Vanessa is a sought-after speaker and a regular lifestyle contributor on NYC’s Pix 11 News. She is also the author of Five Steps to Fabulous. Each summer, Vanessa mentors college students at FIT and Columbia University who are eager to enter the media industry. Passionate about female empowerment, philanthropy, and amplifying Latino voices, Vanessa has become a prominent advocate for women’s rights and well-being in today’s world. Her work has gained recognition, positioning her as an influential figure in both media and the entrepreneurial space.

Stephanie A. Olivo Special Counsel solivo@mccarter.com For more information contact:

Guillermo C. Artiles Chair/Partner gartiles@mccarter.com

Guillermo C. Artiles Chair/Partner gartiles@mccarter.com

Stephanie

Omar A. Bareentto Partner obareentto@mccarter.com

William J. Palatucci Partner wpalatucci@mccarter.com

William J. Palatucci Partner wpalatucci@mccarter.com

Catherine Tung Govt. Affairs Advisor ctung@mccarter.com

Michael

McCarter Government Solutions mmurphy@mccartergs.com

Michael Murphy McCarter Government Solutions mmurphy@mccartergs.com

Azreen Rehman Analyst arehman@mccarter.com

Catherine Tung Govt. Affairs Advisor ctung@mccarter.com Christian P. Callegari Associate ccallegari@mccarter.com

Michael Maitland Govt. Affairs Advisor mmaitland@mccarter.com

Michael Maitland Govt. Affairs Advisor mmaitland@mccarter.com

The President’s Award Duran Entities Alexander and Marilyn Duran

The President’s Award celebrates Alexander and Marilyn Duran as a husband-and-wife team dedicated to social impact through their business, Duran Entities. They exemplify Latino entrepreneurship rooted in faith, family, education and community commitment, believing business leaders should invest in their communities through volunteerism and support for youth. Marilyn, a retired educator, co-founded the Sowing Seed School, an early childhood center in Port Imperial, and together, they launched the Duran Scholarship Foundation to support local students. Alexander, a successful restaurateur, previously helped grow his father’s export company serving Central and South America to over $13 million in sales before selling it to its employees in 2015. Their expanding ventures include Son Cubano in Port Imperial, Ventanas at the Modern in Fort Lee, and, in 2025, SOLÁZ Mediterranean Restaurant and Full Swing Golf Suite in Jersey City, with Chef David Burke as Culinary Director. Next year, they will open a second Sowing Seed School and launch “Next Step Pediatric Therapy” in West New York’s Port Imperial.

AECOM Tishman is proud to support the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey on your mission to foster, mentor, and train Hispanic-owned businesses in New Jersey. Congratulations to this year’s honorees on your outstanding achievement! Learn how we deliver:

AECOM Tishman is proud to support the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey on your mission to foster, mentor, and train Hispanic-owned businesses in New Jersey. Congratulations to this year’s honorees on your outstanding achievement!

AECOM Tishman is proud to support the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey on your mission to foster, mentor, and train Hispanic-owned businesses in New Jersey. Congratulations to this year’s honorees on your outstanding achievement! Learn how we deliver:

Congratulations to this year’s honorees on your outstanding achievement! Learn how we deliver:

AECOM Tishman is proud to support the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey on your mission to foster, mentor, and train Hispanic-owned businesses in New Jersey.

Photo courtesy of Boraie Development
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ
Photo courtesy of Boraie Development LLC
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ Terminal C NJ Highway NJ
Newark International Airport - United Terminal C Newark, NJ
Photo courtesy of Boraie Development LLC
777 McCarter Highway Newark, NJ
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ

SHCCNJ Highlights 2024:

Celebrating 35 Years of Championing Latino Business Excellence

For 35 years, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) has supported Latino businesses, driving growth, fostering innovation and creating opportunities for over 7,000 members. With a steadfast commitment to education, advocacy and connection, SHCCNJ empowers New Jersey’s thriving Latino business community to reach new heights.

In 2024, we celebrated this milestone by deepening partnerships with leading organizations, expanding access to vital resources and rolling out impactful programs. From equipping entrepreneurs with industry-recognized credentials to championing minority business opportunities on a global stage, we remain dedicated to strengthening the fabric of our business community. This year’s achievements are a testament to our members and partners’ resilience, creativity and collaboration. Join us in reflecting on a year of progress and celebrating the impactful programs, events and partnerships that continue to elevate our Latino business community and leaders.

Delivering a better world

AECOM Tishman is proud to support the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey on your mission to foster, mentor, and train Hispanic-owned businesses in New Jersey. Congratulations to this year’s honorees on your outstanding achievement!

WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBER ULISES DIAZ AND DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS GIOVANNA AGUILAR

We are thrilled to welcome Ulises Diaz, Senior Vice President of Government and Community Affairs at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, to our Board of Directors. With extensive experience in government relations, Ulises has led Horizon’s advocacy efforts, overseen the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey and played a pivotal role in legislative and regulatory

reforms during his distinguished tenure at Verizon.

Learn how we deliver:

We also welcome Giovanna Aguilar as our new Director of Communications. A seasoned communications expert and award-winning filmmaker with over 20 years of experience, Giovanna will expand our media presence and spotlight the impactful stories behind our success.

777 McCarter Highway Newark, NJ
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ

January through September Programming It’s All About Access for Participants of the HETP and LETS

We continue to empower Hispanic entrepreneurs to thrive through free, culturally tailored business education, mentorship and resources. Our flagship programs, the Hispanic Entrepreneurship Training Program (HETP) and the Latina Entrepreneurship Training Series (LETS) drive economic growth and create opportunities for success.

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2024, HETP equips small business owners with essential tools, access to capital, networks and markets—all at no cost. This year’s program, held from January to May, featured 14 classroom sessions (two in-person) and an updated curriculum covering LinkedIn networking, business planning, access to capital, cybersecurity, legal considerations and marketing strategies. Of the 55 participants from 14 counties (and one from New York), 52 graduated, with 72.7% being women and 80% foreign-born, representing 12 countries. Participants completed over 40 hours of instruction led by experts like Dr. Jairo Borja, Reina Valenzuela and Tatiana Orozco. The program concluded with an October pitch competition, awarding up to $2,000 in prizes, sponsored by MLB Residential Lending, Starfish Global and Borja Consulting Group.

HETP Success Story

En esta parte puedes poner la foto que dice elie reda HETP Success Story: Graduate Elie Reda secured a contract with New York City’s Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) Agency and expanded his team by hiring a Senior Project Manager.

LETS, sponsored by Wells Fargo, is an eight-week program offering free business counseling and training for women-owned

small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Its culturally informed curriculum covers critical areas such as business planning, finances, marketing, legal considerations and customer management. Combining expert-

The Art of Being a ModernLatina

In March, we hosted “The Art of Being a Modern Day Latina,” our annual celebration of Latina leadership and success across industries. Emceed by Vanessa Coppes, Editor-in-Chief of BELLA Magazine, the event featured an inspiring panel of trailblazers: Ona Diaz, CEO of 5 Salon & Spa; Adi Adair, CFO of American Dream; Monica Sarantidis, SVP at Provident Bank; Adriana Dawson, Community Engagement Director at Verizon; and Allison Strong, singer, songwriter and actress.

The topics centered on workplace diversity, leadership and empowerment, providing attendees with valuable insights, networking opportunities and direct access to Latina leaders. Senator Maria Teresa Ruiz was

honored with the Latina Trailblazer of the Year Award in Politics, underscoring the Chamber’s dedication to celebrating and elevating Latina achievements.

led sessions with personalized support, LETS equips women entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.

Health and Wellness Fair 2024

At the June 2024 Health and Wellness Fair, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey honored Jose Lozano, Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer of Hackensack Meridian Health, with the Latino Trailblazer of the Year Award in Healthcare. The event celebrated Lozano’s leadership, contributions to healthcare and dedication to improving access and outcomes for New Jersey’s Latino community while bringing

together leaders and community members to promote health and well-being.

Guest speaker Juanaelena Garcia, Behavioral Health Medical Director at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, top sponsors are Horizon, Hackensack Meridian Health Excel Facility Services Group, RWJBarnabas Health and Sanofi.

Countdown to the World Cup Cocktail

In June 2024, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of NJ, in partnership with the New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce, hosted the vibrant Countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup cocktail event at American Dream. We brought together soccer enthusiasts, business leaders and community leaders to celebrate the excitement of the upcoming World Cup. “This event showcased the unity and energy that soccer brings to our communities,” said Carlos Medina, President/CEO of SHCCNJ. “We look forward to fostering this spirit as we approach the 2026 World Cup.” Looking ahead, SHCCNJ recognizes that the FIFA World Cup 2026 offers a transformative opportunity to elevate minority businesses globally. It’s more than a sporting event; it’s a catalyst for economic growth, cultural pride and community engagement. With strategic preparation and vision, we aim to ensure our members are ready to seize this historic moment.

Feria de Negocios Hispanos 2024

In July, SHCCNJ’s 2024 Annual Convention drew a jam-packed crowd of vendors and attendees to the Pines Manor in Edison, NJ. The event united exhibitors, government leaders, corporate executives and diplomats to champion business growth and diversity. Renowned for fostering meaningful connections, it offered unparalleled opportunities to network, collaborate and promote economic inclusion.

Small Business Bonding Readiness

Program

In 2024, we continued our partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to offer the Small Business Bonding Readiness Program. This seven-week virtual course, led by industry experts, provides small business owners with practical training in accounting, financial presentations, operational efficiency, marketing and surety bonding.

The program also covers construction and contract law, certification processes and financing options. Participants gain access to an online portal with additional resources to apply their knowledge to daily operations, helping them build bonding capacity and improve business performance.

PSE&G’s NJ Minority Certification Masterclasses

In June 2024, we partnered with PSEG and Starfish Global to offer a three-part masterclass guiding businesses through the certification process. The first session covered state and federal certifications and the organizations issuing them. The second focused on required documentation, featuring insights from NJSBDC’s hands-on support for New Jersey certifications. Reina Valenzuela detailed certifications for small, veteran-owned, woman-owned, minority-owned and LGBTQ+ businesses. The final in-person workshop provided step-bystep guidance, helping participants complete their certifications onsite.

New Program ExportPreneurs

In September 2024, we partnered with Starfish Global to introduce a program designed for small businesses seeking opportunities in importing and exporting. Led by international trade expert Reina Valenzuela, the three-part masterclass offered a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of global commerce. The first session focused on export-readiness assessments, equipping participants to tackle the challenges of exporting. The second session explored research strategies and market selection, helping businesses identify and evaluate potential opportunities. The final session featured experienced Hispanic exporters who shared valuable insights and best practices for achieving success in international trade.

Hispanic Heritage Month Partner for Borinqueneer Park Capital Campaign Fundraiser Financial

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we partnered with the Borinqueneer Park Education Alliance (BPEA) to support their three-year, $5 million capital campaign to create a community park in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, honoring the heroic Puerto Rican soldiers of the U.S. 65th Infantry Regiment, The Borinqueneers. As part of this collaboration, we joined the BPEA in presenting the Caballero Award to David Zayas—an acclaimed actor, Air Force veteran and role model. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication, kindness and service through civic participation, public service, philanthropy, leadership and professional excellence.

Literacy Masterclasses Developed by SHCCNJ

In October 2024, we hosted a two-part Financial Literacy Series to address essential financial topics for small businesses. The first session covered critical aspects of financial management, including effective bookkeeping, budgeting and financial planning tailored to small enterprises. The second session featured a fireside chat with leading experts from the banking industry, offering valuable insights into financial strategies, investment opportunities and emerging trends in business finance. Attendees gained practical advice and expert perspectives to help them tackle financial challenges and make informed business decisions.

Valley Bank: Expert Guidance on Home Ownership & Community Lending

This fall, we partnered with Valley Bank to present the Expert Guidance on Home Ownership & Community Lending Program for Small Businesses. The event offered practical home ownership and community lending insights. Valley Bank experts guide you in navigating the lending process, exploring financing options and utilizing community resources to support business and home ownership objectives.

Atlantic City Hospitality Fiesta 2024.

In November, we hosted our annual Hospitality Fiesta, a premier cocktail event, alongside the NJ League of Municipalities Convention in Atlantic City, the nation’s largest municipal gathering. From November 19–21, the convention highlighted advancements for New Jersey’s local government leaders. During the event, our President, Carlos Medina, was interviewed by Univision and Telemundo to discuss Hispanic business issues.

PROUD SPONSOR OF

PROUD SPONSOR OF

World

THOMAS

THOMAS TRUE

100 Wood Avenue South Iselin, NJ 08830

thomastrue@worldinsurance.com

• Contractors/Construction

• Transportation

• Contractors/Construction

• Offices and Retail

• Transportation

• Food Processing and Distribution

• Restaurants and Hospitality

• Law Firms and CPA Firms

• Offices and Retail

• Professional Liability

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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Alvin Romero Excel Facility Services Group

Excel Facility Services Group was Founded in 2001 with headquarters located in Nutley, New Jersey and has grown from servicing 5 to 10 locations to providing exceptional janitorial services at over 600 sites across 22 states.

We are a trusted partner for businesses across a wide range of industries, including retail, government, corporate, industrial, and more. Our client base includes high-profile organizations such as United States Postal Services, Jones Lang Lasalle, Goya Foods, Christian Dior, PSE&G, AFC Urgent Care, Citizens Bank, Ikea Stores and many others. We understand that the janitorial and facilities maintenance industry is constantly evolving. To deliver an exceptional experience for our clients, we stay ahead of industry trends and leverage the latest technology to improve efficiency, consistency, and quality across all our operations.

Creating Healthier Workplaces

Creating Healthier Workplaces

Creating Healthier Workplaces

Excel Facility Services Group is dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning solutions customized for diverse environments, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency to foster healthier workplaces.

Excel Facility Services Group is dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning solutions customized for diverse environments, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency to foster healthier workplaces.

Excel Facility Services Group is dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning solutions customized for diverse environments, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency to foster healthier workplaces.

With a vision to lead the facility services industry through innovation and reliability, we enhance the well-being of our clients' spaces.

With a vision to lead the facility services industry through innovation and reliability, we enhance the well-being of our clients' spaces.

With a vision to lead the facility services industry through innovation and reliability, we enhance the well-being of our clients' spaces.

Excel Facility Services Group is dedicated to providing exceptional cleaning solutions customized for diverse environments, prioritizing safety and operational efficiency to foster healthier workplaces.

Proudly sponsoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting and advancing our community. Together, we're building a brighter future!

Proudly sponsoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting and advancing our community. Together, we're building a brighter future!

With a vision to lead the facility services industry through innovation and reliability, we enhance the well-being of our clients' spaces.

Proudly sponsoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting and advancing our community. Together, we're building a brighter future!

Proudly sponsoring the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to supporting and advancing our community. Together, we're building a brighter future!

Contact us today at (800) 593-2414 or visit efsgnj.com to elevate your standards and create healthier workplaces.

Contact us today at (800) 593-2414 or visit efsgnj.com to elevate your standards and create healthier workplaces.

Contact us today at (800) 593-2414 or visit efsgnj.com to elevate your standards and create healthier workplaces.

Contact us today at (800) 593-2414 or visit efsgnj.com to elevate your standards and create healthier workplaces.

growth

Small businesses and entrepreneurs are

Driving inclusive growth

Small businesses and entrepreneurs are vital to thriving communities in New Jersey and throughout the United States.

thriving communities in New Jersey and throughout the United States.

Small businesses and entrepreneurs are vital to thriving communities in New Jersey and throughout the United States.

Through our philanthropic commitments and initiatives, we’re helping support the success and advancement of Hispanic and Latino individuals and communities.

Through our philanthropic commitments and initiatives, we’re helping support the success and advancement of Hispanic and Latino individuals and communities.

Learn more at jpmorganchase.com/racialequity

Learn more at jpmorganchase.com/racialequity

Through our philanthropic commitments and initiatives, we’re helping support the success and advancement of Hispanic and Latino individuals and communities.

Learn more at jpmorganchase.com/racialequity

Answers, Advocacy, Connections

C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s t o t h e

S t a t e w i d e H i s p a n i c C h a m b e r o f

C o m m e r c e N e w J e r s e y 2 0 2 4

H o n o r e e s

895 Paulison Ave. Clifton, NJ. 07011

(973)329-9929

https://fullypromoted.com/locations/clifton-nj

NJITMakes our diversity our strength.

NJIT, a Hispanic Serving Institution, is one of only 22 universities in the nation to be a part of the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities. njit.edu

New Jersey Resources (NJR) congratulates this year’s gala recipients for their hard work and dedication.

NJR’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are an integral part of the work we do every day to help ensure a sustainable future for the communities we serve

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