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HCSB Honors San Bernardino Valley College with 2026 Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:25:03 GMT

HCSB Honors San Bernardino Valley College with 2026 Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — March 18, 2026 — The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) has named San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) the recipient of the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Visionary Award, recognizing the college’s leadership in preparing people and communities for a more sustainable future. SBVC will be honored at the 2026 HCSB Spheres of Sustainability Summit on April 22, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon at the DoubleTree by Hilton Pomona.

“HCSB’s mission is about people,” said Frank Montes, founding chair of HCSB. “We focus on helping students, small business owners and entrepreneurs prepare for the sustainable jobs and businesses that strengthen our economy and our communities. Our partnership with San Bernardino Valley College brings that mission to life.”

A longtime HCSB partner, San Bernardino Valley College plays a key role in developing a workforce that keeps the Inland Empire moving forward. The college prepares students for careers in clean energy, water and environmental systems, transportation and transit, aviation, logistics, skilled trades, technology and the businesses that support these industries.

For students, this translates into clear, affordable pathways from the classroom to meaningful careers — earning industry-recognized credentials, gaining hands-on experience and entering jobs that support their families while strengthening their communities.

From maintaining transit and transportation systems to building sustainable infrastructure, managing water resources, powering clean energy and supporting these fields through technology and entrepreneurship, SBVC connects education directly to opportunity. Students learn in modern facilities and gain real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships and workforce partnerships that prepare them for jobs that matter.

“San Bernardino Valley College is honored to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Gilbert Contreras, president of San Bernardino Valley College. “Together with HCSB, we are creating real opportunities for students — preparing them for careers in transportation, infrastructure, energy, water and technology while building a stronger, more sustainable region.”

As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, San Bernardino Valley College mirrors the community around it. More than 72% of SBVC students identify as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting the vibrant and diverse population of San Bernardino and the Inland Empire.

That connection to place matters. SBVC exists to serve this region, preparing local residents for the industries that power the Inland Empire’s economy and creating pathways for families to build stronger futures right here in their own communities.

About San Bernardino Valley College

San Bernardino Valley College demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through both its academic programs and the way its campus is built and operated. As part of the San Bernardino Community College District’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035, SBVC has invested in forward-looking, sustainable infrastructure, including the Applied Technology Building, a 114,000-square-foot, all-electric, net-zero-ready facility completed in 2025 and tracking LEED Platinum certification. The building features passive cooling through solar thermal chimneys and extensive photovoltaic canopy and rooftop systems that provide nearly 70% of its energy. Looking ahead, the Career Pathways 2 Building, targeted for completion in 2027, is pursuing LEED Gold and Envision Sustainable certifications with a focus on water stewardship and resource conservation. Across the campus, SBVC has prioritized drought-tolerant landscaping and modular wetlands that capture and treat stormwater, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility.

About HCSB

The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing small business communities by fostering collaboration among educators, students, entrepreneurs, government and industry partners. HCSB expands access to training, resources and opportunities that support sustainable economic growth and stronger communities across California.

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Media Contacts

Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB)

Contact: Michael Herrera

Title: HCSB Vice Chair

Office: (951)426-4272

Mobile: (562) 687-0416

Email: Michael.herrera@hcsb-us.org

Website: www.hcsb-us.org

Media Contacts

San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC)

Contact: Paul Bratulin

Title: Campus Director, Marketing, Office: (951)426-4272 Creative Services & Public Affairs

Office: (909) 384-8978

Mobile: (904) 508-9755

Email: pbratulin@valleycollege.edu

Website: www.valleycollege.edu

HCSB Vision: To be the leading resource, advocate, and voice of Hispanic and diverse-owned small businesses, representing their interests in the Inland Empire region and throughout the State of California to ensure the success of our communities.

 HCSB Mission: To champion and empower coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities in the Inland Empire region, and throughout the State of California, by providing resources and opportunities to ensure their success.

HCSB Board Director Dr. Angelo Farooq Selected to Lead National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs, a First in California History

frankmipc@gmail.com (Frank Montes) — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 01:39:11 GMT

News Release (For Immediate Release)

HCSB Board Director Dr. Angelo Farooq Selected to Lead National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs, a First in California History

Southern California Region (Aug. 15, 2023) – Dr. Angelo Farooq, Chair of the California Workforce Development (CWDB), and Board Director for the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) has been elected by his peers as the Chair of the National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs. This is the first time in history that a California State Workforce Board Chair has held this national leadership position.

“Congratulations to Dr. Angelo Farooq on this historic election,” said Frank Montes, Founding Chairman of the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB). “We at HCSB are working hard to Advance Small Business Communities, and Dr. Farooq plays a critical role in the strategic direction we are taking. In addition to being a Founding Director of the HCSB Board, Angelo is a member of the HCSB Education, Housing, Infrastructure & Workforce Development Committee ( https://www.hcsb-us.org/education-housing-infrastructure-and-workforce-committee ). He brings his valuable expertise and advice to HCSB members at a grassroots level, where our small business owners can benefit directly,” added Montes. “Structuring our HCSB Board of Directors with experts and advocates like Dr. Angelo Farooq was one of our strategic priorities. Now, with Angelo serving as the Chair of the National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs, the breadth and depth of his knowledge and expertise will benefit small and diverse-owned businesses throughout California and the nation at an even higher level. We are proud to have Angelo as a founding director of the HCSB Board of Directors,” added Montes.

Dr. Angelo Farooq accepted the board chair position by saying, “I am honored to have the trust and confidence of my colleagues across the nation. In my five years serving as Chair of the CWDB, we have expanded high road partnerships to new sectors, established construction partnerships in every corner of our state, and much more. I look forward to working with my fellow workforce development board chairs to share what has worked here in California and how we can extend economic opportunity to more Americans.”

Stewart Knox, Secretary of California’s Labor & Workforce Development Agency, in a statement acknowledged Dr. Farooq’s instrumental role in building a high-road economy in California. “Under Governor Newson’s leadership, Dr. Farooq and the CWDB have over $1 Billion in workforce investments in the field today and are leading the way in creating good jobs and meeting the workforce needs of California businesses.” These workforce investments come at a time when states are trying to ensure that a skilled workforce is ready for historic federal infrastructure funding in transportation, clean energy, and broadband.

About Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

HCSB Vision: To be the leading resource, advocate, and voice of Hispanic and diverse-owned small businesses, representing their interests in the Inland Empire region and throughout the State of California to ensure the success of our communities.

HCSB Mission: To champion and empower coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities in the Inland Empire region, and throughout the State of California, by providing resources and opportunities to ensure their success.

The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses is a 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization comprising an alliance of diverse organizations based in the Southern California region. HCSB is committed to Advancing Small Business Communities … because when small businesses succeed and grow, so do the communities in which their owners, employees and families live and work. HCSB supports its Vision and Mission by championing and empowering coalitions among Hispanic and diverse-owned small businesses, government, and local communities in the region and across the country. HCSB and its supporters provide resources and opportunities to ensure the success of these small businesses. The HCSB leadership team – its Chairman, Board of Directors, Advisory Board, Committee Chairs, and the leaders of the HCSB Affiliate Member organizations – are well-established and experienced members of the community who have been at the helm of local, regional, statewide, and national organizations. https://www.hcsb-us.org/

HCSB has seven diverse standing committees that differentiate the organization from other non-profit organizations. All seven committees – which include Advancement (Sponsorship & Membership); Arts & Entertainment; Diversity & Inclusion; Education, Infrastructure, & Workforce Development; Green Energy & Sustainability; Procurement; Public Affairs (Community, Corporate, Government) – can be viewed at the following link: https://www.hcsb-us.org/arts-and-entertainment-committee

About National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs

The National Association of State Workforce Board Chairs is a membership organization composed of the chairs of Governor-appointed state workforce development boards, which are responsible for overseeing state workforce development systems. The Association is an affiliate of the National Governors Association (NGA) Center for Best Practices, which supports administration and convenings for the association. https://www.nga.org/projects/national-association-of-state-workforce-board-chairs/

Dr. Angelo Farooq is appointed as the Chairman of the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) ( https://cwdb.ca.gov/ ) under Governor Gavin Newsom administration. CWDB is responsible for governing all federal workforce funds to the State and developing a common policy framework for the overall $6 billion annual system. Angelo is elected as the President of the Board of Education for Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) and served on the board since 2015. Angelo earned his Bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, Executive Master and Doctorate of Policy, Planning & Development degrees from the University of Southern California. Angelo is proud to be the inaugural recipient of the NAACP Riverside Branch Waudieur Rucker-Hughes Legacy Service Award and an inaugural recipient of the Legacy Builders Award recognized by the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California. Angelo is married to Vessy and they have a daughter named Maya.

Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses Announces New Advisory Board Member, The Honorable Frank J. Navarro, Mayor, City of Colton

cgr@christinegrodriguez.com (Christine Rodriguez) — Tue, 09 May 2023 19:48:50 GMT

News Release (For Immediate Release)

Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses Announces New Advisory Board Member, The Honorable Frank J. Navarro, Mayor, City of Colton

Southern California Region (April 12, 2023) – The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) is proud to announce that the Honorable Frank J. Navarro, Mayor of the City of Colton , has joined the HCSB Advisory Board of Directors, whose goal is to provide guidance to HCSB and its Board of Directors on various business-related issues.

“We are honored to welcome Mayor Navarro to the HCSB Advisory Board,” said HCSB Board Chair Frank Montes. “The objectives that Mayor Navarro has set for himself and his team from the City of Colton align closely with the goals and objectives that HCSB has developed to benefit our small businesses, including access to new business opportunities. His skills, expertise, and business contacts will add much value to our organization,” added Montes.

Mayor Navarro said he joined the HCSB Advisory Board for several reasons. “When I reviewed the vision and mission of HCSB and how hard its Chair, Board Directors, and Committee Chairs are working to achieve their goals, I knew this was an organization I wanted to be a part of,” said the Mayor. “The City of Colton has many opportunities for small businesses, so it makes sense for us to work together for the greater good of the City, small businesses, and our surrounding communities,” he added.

Mayor Navarro was first elected in 2012 as Council Member for the City of Colton representing District 3. In 2015, his Council colleagues appointed him to serve a 1-year term as Mayor Pro Tempore. Then in 2018, Council Member Navarro was elected to serve as Mayor. The Honorable Mayor Navarro also represents the City of Colton as a member of several local and regional agencies and committees. https://www.ci.colton.ca.us/696/Mayor

His objectives as the City of Colton Mayor is to serve the community as a whole, including:

- Assurance of prosperous business development and retention;

- Oversight of the City’s financial stability; and

- Networking with other agencies to ensure regional transportation projects benefit Colton and surrounding communities.

About Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses is a nonprofit organization comprising an alliance of diverse organizations based in the Southern California region. HCSB is committed to Advancing Small Business Communities in the region and across the country by championing and empowering coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities by providing resources and opportunities to ensure their success. While the HCSB coalition name is new, the people (Chairman, Board of Directors, Committee

Chairs, Affiliate Members) are well-established and experienced members of the community who have been at the helm of local, regional, statewide, and national organizations. https://www.hcsb-us.org/

Richard Montañez: Real-Life Story – From Janitor to Marketing Executive – Featured in Eva Longoria’s First Film, ‘Flamin’ Hot’

frankmipc@gmail.com (Frank Montes) — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 03:56:18 GMT

Richard Montañez: Real-Life Story – From Janitor to Marketing Executive – Featured in Eva Longoria’s First Film, ‘Flamin’ Hot’

Richard Montañez and Pepe Serna Serve on HCSB Advisory Board and HCSB Arts & Entertainment Committee

Southern California Region (January 6, 2023) – The new year kicked off with an exciting sneak peek in the People Magazine January 4 ^th article of Eva Longoria’s first feature film, Flamin’ Hot, which will premier June 9 on Hulu. The film is based on the real life of Richard Montañez, a Frito-Lay janitor who created the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and, subsequently, rose to a high-level company executive position to market the brand. The movie also features movie and TV show actor Pepe Serna. Both Montañez and Serna serve as advisors to the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) and its Arts & Entertainment Committee, which is chaired by Bel Hernandez, Founder & CEO of LatinHeat Media.

“HCSB is proud to be a leading resource and voice of Hispanic and diverse small businesses as they pursue their dreams and goals, especially in this film and entertainment industry where minority voices are too often not heard nor heeded. ‘Flamin’ Hot’ is a story about ALL of us, not just Richard,” said Frank Montes, HCSB Chairman of the Board. “Eva, Richard, Pepe and so many others in front of and behind the cameras in this industry ARE small business owners in their own right. HCSB is here to support these small businesses and help them succeed,” said Montes.

The ‘Flamin’ Hot’ story line is about how Montañez came up with an idea – adding hot sauce (a spicy food staple from his Mexican American heritage) – to chips to create ‘Flamin’ Hot Cheetos,’ the No. 1 snack in the world, which is a billion-dollar brand. The rest is history. But Montanez simplifies it by saying, “It’s not about how smart you are. It’s about how are you smart.” Montañez spent his early childhood years in a migrant farm camp in Guasti, a town that borders the City of Ontario in the Greater Inland Empire region of Southern California. Then he moved to Ontario and grew up in the barrio. “I never went to school for a formal education,” said Montañez, “but I earned a PhD from the streets – Poor, Hungry, and Determined,” he jokes. On a more serious note, Montañez sends a message to the Latino community, small business owners, and all our children, “Come out and support the movie! If you have an idea, don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done!”

Hollywood movie and TV actor Pepe Serna had this to say about ‘Flamin’ Hot’: “I had the privilege to be asked by Eva Longoria, my hometown (Corpus Christi, TX) star, producer, and first-time movie director, to play Richard Montanez’s mentor, his grandfather. This and many more stories like it must be told on screen! I intend to do my part as a contributing member of the HCSB Arts & Entertainment Committee to make this happen,” said Serna.

About Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

HCSB Announces New Board and Committee Members Michael Herrera, Michael Lopez and Illary Archilla

frankmipc@gmail.com (Frank Montes) — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 03:51:53 GMT

Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses Announces New Board and Committee Members Michael Herrera, Michael Lopez and Illary Archilla

Southern California Region (January 10, 2022) – Michael Herrera, Michael Lopez, and Illary Archilla in December joined the Board of Directors and Green Energy & Sustainability Committee of the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB). The new directors and committee member will bring to the organization and its members years of experience and skills in the areas of green energy, construction, engineering, project management, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and other community building efforts.

“It is my honor to welcome both Michael’s to the HCSB Board of Directors and Illary to our Green Energy & Sustainability Committee,” said Frank Montes, Chair of HCSB. “All three will add valuable expertise to HCSB as we focus on our mission of championing and empowering coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities,” added Montes. “HCSB brings to our members and their communities various resources and opportunities that begin with the expertise and business connections of all members of our Board of Directors and Committees. Illary, Michael Herrera and Michael Lopez add a very special set of skills to the already diverse skillsets of our entire HCSB Board of Directors.”

Dennise Mejia, Chair of the HCSB Green Energy & Sustainability Committee welcomed Illary as a committee member saying, “Illary’s background, particularly in providing energy & sustainability management solutions to her clients, will be of great value to HCSB as we strive to develop a culture of innovation and sustainability in our communities through partnerships with residents, businesses, academia, and government entities.”

Illary Archilla is the Founder and CEO of Terravanta, Inc ., a minority, woman-owned consulting firm that specializes in project, construction, and energy/sustainability management solutions. Her professional experience is international and diverse, with 15 years of proven leadership responsibilities in energy management, large scale construction, customer service, engineering, product development and manufacturing. Illary is a mechanical engineer, environmentalist, and socially conscious entrepreneur whose vision is a future where it is natural to see women in technical fields, and where sustainable projects are not an emerging trend but just a normal part of life. Terravanta directs 2 percent of its revenue to fund programs to educate and promote minority and low-income young leaders into STEM careers. (See full bio at www.hcsb-us.org )

Michael Herrera is the Regional Director of Community Outreach and Supplier Diversity for McCarthy Building Companies, Inc ., and leads McCarthy’s related community building efforts in Southern California and the state of Nevada. He is an accomplished supplier diversity, supply chain and community builder leader, with experience managing compliance, rules, regulations, and public laws for various corporations. His experience includes creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all by leveraging his managerial and analytical talents to lead and support employee resource groups at several corporations. Michael also serves on the Strategic Council for the The Diversity Advisors, a group of passionate Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)-focused business leaders who have come together to provide strategic direction to various organizations, ensuring diversity of thought and inclusion is embraced far and wide. (See full bio at www.hcsb-us.org )

Michael Lopez is Assistant Vice President, Business Banking Relationship Manager at U.S. Bank . As a member of the Inland Empire Business Banking Group, he helps business owners with commercial real estate financing, as well as other business lending needs. Michael has 25 years of experience helping businesses and consumers in Southern California with their commercial and residential lending needs. During that time, he has gained experience working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, World Savings, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and now U.S. Bank. A native of Southern California, Michael attended California State University Long Beach, where he studied Civil Engineering. (See full bio at www.hcsb-us.org )

About Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

About McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is one of the country’s largest domestic general contractors. McCarthy recently was awarded a contract at San Bernadino Valley College which involves the demolition of the existing Liberal Arts building on campus, and the construction of a new Student Services Building. This is a project involving a budget of over $100M – slated to break ground in 2024. McCarthy was a founding sponsor, exhibitor, and Michael Herrera a distinguished speaker at HCSB’s inaugural summit held in October 2022 during Hispanic Heritage Month. The company continues to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion by sponsoring Michael’s position as a HCSB Board Director, and by providing access to contracting opportunities for diverse-owned vendors through partnerships, supplier outreach, and mentorship opportunities. Learn more at https://www.mccarthy.com/about

About Terravanta, Inc.

Terravanta, Inc. is a minority, woman-owned consulting firm that specializes in project, construction, and energy/sustainability management solutions. Founder & CEO Illary Archilla earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Energetic Systems with honors, a minor in Marketing and Business, and a M.S. in Mechanical Engineering. She has a Green Belt Six Sigma Certification and has participated in numerous certificate programs in the Energy/Project/Construction Management industry. Learn more at ( https://www.terravanta.com/ )

About U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, with approximately 70,000 employees and $587 billion in assets as of March 31, 2022, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. The Minneapolis-based company serves millions of customers locally, nationally, and globally through a diversified mix of businesses: Consumer and Business Banking; Payment Services; Corporate & Commercial Banking; and Wealth Management and Investment Services. The company has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, social responsibility, and customer service, including being named one of the 2022 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. Learn more at https://usbank.com/about

Congratulatory Message to Gracie Torres, Director, Western Municipal Water District, Division 2 from Frank Montes, Chair, Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB)

frankmipc@gmail.com (Frank Montes) — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 20:32:35 GMT

Congratulations, Gracie Torres, on your re-election to the Western Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors!

Congratulations, Gracie Torres, on your re-election to the Western Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors! You continue to break records as the youngest and first millennial immigrant Latina elected to serve as Vice President on this WMWD board … and by securing a second term with 60 percent of the vote in a five-person race! ¡Felicidades, Gracie!

We at the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB) are extremely fortunate and proud to have you serve on its Board of Directors ( https://www.hcsb-us.org/board-of-directors/gracie-torres )! Your passion for water quality, environmental conservation, transparency, and job creation is making a dramatic difference in our residential and small business communities! In addition, you serve as a prime example as an education mentor and community service advocate. By pursuing your own higher education goals – particularly in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) arena – you are lighting the path for our high school students of color to follow. Keep up the great work, Gracie! ¡Todos aquí en HCSB estamos muy orgullosos de ti!

Gracie will be sworn in to her re-elected position on December 7 in Riverside, CA (see flyer below). To learn more about Gracie Torres, visit: gracietorres.com or follow her on Facebook or Instagram @gracietorres or Twitter @GTorresWMWD.

— Frank Montes, Chair, Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

Gracie Torres Dec. 7 Swearing-In Ceremony

Gracie Torres, Vice President, Board of Directors

Western Municipal Water District, Division II

Congratulatory Message to Veronica Diaz, Southern California Edison from Frank Montes, Chair, Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses (HCSB)

frankmipc@gmail.com (Frank Montes) — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 03:22:54 GMT

Veronica Diaz, Southern California Edison

Another exciting opportunity just happened for one of our own HCSB Committee Members, Veronica Diaz! Join me in congratulating Veronica on her new role at Southern California Edison – a founding strategic partner of HCSB – as Energy Efficiency Marketing & Outreach Advisor with SCE’s Customer Programs & Services. In her new role, Veronica “will be the Income Qualified Program (IQP) subject matter expert in coordinating the content, design, compliance, and distribution of customer-facing marketing collateral, including print, website, and social media.” Prior to this position, Veronica served as an Account Manager for the SCE Business Customer Division, responsible for creating clean energy awareness for small business communities, focusing on Hispanic and diverse business associations. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Veronica serves as the Community Outreach Director for SCE’s Business Resource Group, LEAD, a Latino organization positively impacting employee development, advancement, and engagement. HCSB is proud and extremely fortunate that Veronica lends her community-minded spirit and valuable expertise in the energy sector to serve as a Committee Member of the HCSB Green Energy & Sustainability Committee (https://www.hcsb-us.org/green-energy-and-sustainability-committee). Congratulations, Veronica!

HCSB celebrated the launch of the organization at the San Bernardino International Airport on October 14 as Hispanic Heritage Month came to a close

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:11:40 GMT

Greater Inland Empire/San Bernardino, CA (October 20, 2022) – The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses, an alliance of diverse organizations based in Southern California and committed to Advancing Small Business Communities in the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and across the Country, and approximately 200 guests officially celebrated the launch of the organization at the San Bernardino International Airport on October 14 as Hispanic Heritage Month came to a close. Guests included HCSB’s 15 Affiliate Member organizations; corporate sponsors; legislative and community leaders; and more than 150 small business owners and individual entrepreneurs.

“With the launch of the HCSB, our Board of Directors, Committee chairs and our entire team, demonstrated that we are focused not only on advancing small businesses but also the communities in which their owners and employees live and work. When small business owners overcome the daily challenges they face and succeed in their businesses, their families and our surrounding communities also win,” said Frank Montes, HCSB Chairperson.

Entrepreneur and owner of various small & micro businesses, Juan Rodriguez, agreed. “I came away from the HCSB inaugural event not only with new friends and colleagues but also with at least four leads for new contracts,” said Juan Rodriguez, Axxiom Web Consultants. He cited the business-related resources that HCSB will bring to the small business community as invaluable and much needed in the region.

More than 20 founding sponsors, government entities, and small businesses were represented at the event with exhibits of their products and displays of energy efficient vehicles. HCSB hosted three panels and its 1st in a series of business readiness trainings for small business owners seeking government and corporate contracts. Panels included: How to become business ready for Procurement Opportunities; Sustainable Future – Water, Energy & Workforce; and Infrastructure Projects – Hydrogen, Industrial Complex Development & Construction. Panelists included representatives from SBD International Airport; McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.; County of San Bernardino; San Bernardino Community College District; CA Workforce Development Board; Board of Education, Riverside Unified School District; Western Municipal Water District; Southern California Edison (SCE); Cucamonga Valley Water District; Metropolitan Water District of SoCal; San Manuel Bank of Mission Indians; SoCal Gas; Burns & McDonnell; and the City of Colton.

Founding corporate sponsors of the HCSB inaugural event, among them USBank and McCarthy Building Companies, connected with the small business owners, aligning their own efforts to support small businesses.

“Our philanthropic and community investments are focused specifically on breaking down systemic barriers to racial and economic equity for women, people of color, and low- and moderate-income communities within our enterprise-wide giving platform, Community Possible.” said Rockette Ewell, Vice President, Community Affairs Manager at U.S. Bank. “Through Community Possible, we invest our time, resources, and passion in economic development, which includes helping small businesses to grow and thrive.”

“At McCarthy, we pride ourselves in being a community builder – not only builders of memorable structures that grace our community skylines but also builders of positive economic impact within our local communities,” said Michael Herrera, Regional Director for McCarthy Supplier Diversity & Community Outreach. “We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses to help advance our local workforce development efforts, philanthropic contributions to the community, and to provide access to contracting opportunities for diverse-owned vendors through partnerships, supplier outreach, and mentorship opportunities. We are working together to continue to move the needle forward in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) space within the construction industry.”

About Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses

The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses is a nonprofit organization comprising an alliance of diverse organizations based in Southern California. HCSB is committed to championing and empowering coalitions among Hispanic and diverse small businesses, government, and local communities in the Greater Inland Empire and Los Angeles regions, and beyond, by providing resources and opportunities to ensure their success. While the HCSB coalition name is new, the people (Chairman, Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, Affiliate Members) are well-established and experienced members of the community who have been at the helm of local, regional, statewide, and national organizations. https://www.hcsb-us.org/

About McCarthy

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., one of the country’s largest domestic general contractors, was one of the HCSB event sponsors. McCarthy recently was awarded a contract at San Bernardino Valley College, which involves the demolition of the existing Liberal Arts building on campus, and the construction of a new Student Services Building. This is a project involving a budget of over $100M – slated to break ground in 2024. McCarthy was excited to sponsor, exhibit, provide informational remarks during HCSB’s summit and proudly support and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month – demonstrating their ongoing commitment to DE&I and providing access to contracting opportunities for diverse-owned vendors through partnerships, supplier outreach, and mentorship opportunities. https://www.mccarthy.com/about

About U.S. Bank

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Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses Opens Doors to Government Contracting Opportunities for Small and Minority-Owned Businesses

angelica@theimagengroup.com (Angelica Urquijo) — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 00:18:55 GMT

— HCSB To Offer Bilingual Programming and Resources to Latinx-Owned Businesses —

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — October 12, 2022 — ( NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE ) — The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses , an alliance of diverse organizations based in Southern California, and committed to advancing small business communities in the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and across the Country is hosting its inaugural procurement summit and celebration to coincide with the close of Hispanic Heritage Month.

The HCSB event reached full capacity, closing registration with close to 300 confirmed participants, including HCSB and its 15 affiliate-member organizations, corporate sponsors, small business owners, and community and legislative leaders. The HCSB Summit is happening October 14, 2022, from 10:00 am-8:30 pm at the San Bernardino International Airport, Private Terminal, 275 N. Leland Norton Way, San Bernardino, CA 92408.

Latinx and other minority-owned businesses have been disproportionally affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, according to an SBA report, 41 percent of Black-owned businesses, 32 percent of Latino-owned businesses, and 20 percent of Asian-owned businesses were forced to close their doors as a result of the pandemic. Despite the odds, our communities of color also possess resilience, creativity, and perseverance at overcoming obstacles.

“Resources and technical support are crucial for these micro and small businesses to scale and thrive,” said HCSB Chairman, Frank Montes . “The HCSB is laser-focused on ensuring we provide our diverse communities with bilingual education, financial resources, and contracting opportunities.”

The San Bernardino International Airport was selected for the organization’s event because it shines the spotlight on the revitalization occurring in the Inland Empire, and the significance of pivoting and adapting to the business environment post-pandemic.

Our corporate partners are essential to the success of our programs. Southern California Edison, one of the HCSB event sponsors, has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to providing access to contracting opportunities for diverse vendors, through partnerships, supplier outreach, and mentorship.

“Our team members value the role our vendors play in ensuring that as an organization we meet our strategic objectives, primarily the safe delivery of reliable, affordable, and clean energy, including wildfire mitigation efforts,” shares SCE, Principal Manager of Supplier Diversity and Development, Maia Siprashvili. “In 2021, Southern California Edison’s spend with diverse businesses was $2.44B, representing 38% of our total spend. In 2022, we will continue to work to discover, support, and develop small and diverse businesses, while remaining a leader in the electric power industry. We commend the HCSB for their efforts and vision of providing a vehicle to empower small and micro businesses to become contract-ready to partner with companies such as SCE, other utilities, and government entities.”

During this year’s HCSB event, attendees will be introduced to the first of its signature Education, Training & Technical Assistance Programs, the HCSB Procurement Education Summit, Getting Small & Micro Businesses Ready to Access Public/ Private Contracts. Three panel discussions led by industry leaders will shed light on trends and upcoming business opportunities focused on a sustainable future: water, energy, workforce, transportation, infrastructure, and a look inside the commercial development projects in the Inland Empire led by the City of Colton, commercial revitalization efforts around the San Bernardino International Airport, and The San Manuel Landing , a community investment project by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians .

About the Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses:

A new nonprofit organization – (HCSB) was formed in 2022 in the Greater Inland Empire region of Southern California and is committed to becoming a national organization serving local Hispanic and diverse small business communities throughout the United States. The alliance of diverse organizations based in Southern California, founded with a clear goal: helping small business advance and thrive in our communities. Among the organizations key initiatives, to prepare small and micro businesses for contracts, procurement, and funding opportunities while forming sustained relationships with public/private contract providers for contract awards.

Noticias newswire: https://www.noticiasnewswire.com/hispanic-coalition-of-small-businesses/

Angelica Urquijo
Media Relations
The Imagen Group, Inc.
(626) 765-3553 (o)
(626) 340-1804 (c)
angelica@theimagengroup.com

HISPANIC COALITION OF SMALL BUSINESSES OPENS DOORS TO CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL- MINORITY, OWNED BUSINESSES & HOSTS INAUGURAL PROCUREMENT SUMMIT

angelica@theimagengroup.com (Angelica Urquijo) — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 23:13:20 GMT

Contact: Angelica Urquijo, Media Relations

The Imagen Group, Inc.

(626) 765-3553 (o), (626) 340-1804 (c)

angelica@theimagengroup.com

NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY

September 16, 2022

HISPANIC COALITION OF SMALL BUSINESSES OPENS DOORS TO CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL- MINORITY, OWNED BUSINESSES & HOSTS INAUGURAL PROCUREMENT SUMMIT

HCSB To Offer Bilingual Programming and Resources to Hispanic Owned Businesses

Riverside, CA - (September 16, 2022) - The Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses, an alliance of diverse organizations based in Southern California, committed to advancing small business communities in the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and across the Country—hosts inaugural procurement summit and celebration to coincide with the close of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Approximately 150 to 200 participants are expected, including HCSB and its 15 Affiliate Member organizations; corporate sponsors; small business owners; and community and legislative leaders. The HCSB Summit will be held, October 14th from 10:00 am -8:30 pm at the San Bernardino International Airport, Private Terminal, 275 N. Leland Norton Way, San Bernardino, CA 92408.

Latino and other minority-owned businesses have been disproportionally affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, they also possess resilience, creativity and perseverance to overcome obstacles. “Resources and technical support are crucial for these micro and small businesses to scale and thrive,” shares, HCSB Chairman, Frank Montes . “The HCSB is laser focused on ensuring we provide our diverse community with bilingual education, financial resources and contracting opportunities.”

“San Bernardino International Airport is excited to partner with the HCSB and host the inaugural procurement summit and celebration. Our small and mid-sized enterprises continue to be the fabric of economic and community resiliency and innovation throughout the Inland Empire region of Southern California. We commend the HCSB for their vision and this opportunity,” adds Michael Burrows, CEO, of the San Bernardino International Airport.

This year’s HCSB Procurement Summit will include the 1st in a series of business readiness trainings for small business owners seeking government and corporate contracts, panel discussions focused on a sustainable future: water, energy, workforce, transportation, infrastructure, and look inside the commercial development projects led by the City of Colton, and commercial revitalization efforts around the San Bernardino International Airport, “ The San Manuel Landing ” a community investment project by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians .

What: 1st Annual HCSB Procurement Summit (Advancing Small Business Communities)

When: Friday, October 14, 2022, 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

Where: San Bernardino International Airport-Private Terminal

105 N. Leland Norton Way, San Bernardino CA 92408

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2nd Annual Impacto Business & Community Awards - October 13th, 2022

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 22:01:54 GMT

2nd Annual Impacto Business & Community Awards (HCSB Affiliate Member)

Click on the image above to learn more about this event.

New Foundation Opening

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 19:54:13 GMT

Celebrating the Opening of the New Foundation (HCSB)

Join and celebrate with us on October 14, 2022

HCSB Launches Oct. 14 Event - Advancing Small Business Communities

Keep in touch with site visitors and boost loyalty

jrodriguez@axxiomdata.com (Juan Rodriguez) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 17:11:40 GMT

There are so many good reasons to communicate with site visitors. Tell them about sales and new products or update them with tips and information.

Here are some reasons to make blogging part of your regular routine.

Blogging is an easy way to engage with site visitors

Writing a blog post is easy once you get the hang of it. Posts don’t need to be long or complicated. Just write about what you know, and do your best to write well.

Show customers your personality

When you write a blog post, you can really let your personality shine through. This can be a great tool for showing your distinct personality.

Blogging is a terrific form of communication

Blogs are a great communication tool. They tend to be longer than social media posts, which gives you plenty of space for sharing insights, handy tips and more.

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Search engines like sites that regularly post fresh content, and a blog is a great way of doing this. With relevant metadata for every post so search engines can find your content.

Drive traffic to your site

Every time you add a new post, people who have subscribed to it will have a reason to come back to your site. If the post is a good read, they’ll share it with others, bringing even more traffic!

Blogging is free

Maintaining a blog on your site is absolutely free. You can hire bloggers if you like or assign regularly blogging tasks to everyone in your company.

A natural way to build your brand

A blog is a wonderful way to build your brand’s distinct voice. Write about issues that are related to your industry and your customers.

Tips for writing great posts that increase your site traffic

jrodriguez@axxiomdata.com (Juan Rodriguez) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 17:11:40 GMT

Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.

Speak to your audience

You know your audience better than anyone else, so keep them in mind as you write your blog posts. Write about things they care about. If you have a company Facebook page, look here to find topics to write about

Take a few moments to plan your post

Once you have a great idea for a post, write the first draft. Some people like to start with the title and then work on the paragraphs. Other people like to start with subtitles and go from there. Choose the method that works for you.

Don’t forget to add images

Be sure to include a few high-quality images in your blog. Images break up the text and make it more readable. They can also convey emotions or ideas that are hard to put into words.

Edit carefully before posting

Once you’re happy with the text, put it aside for a day or two, and then re-read it. You’ll probably find a few things you want to add, and a couple more that you want to remove. Have a friend or colleague look it over to make sure there are no mistakes. When your post is error-free, set it up in your blog and publish.