Angela Franco, GWHCC President and CEO

The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC) and the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (OLA) are announcing a partnership to launch their new mentorship program “DC SmallBiz Mentorship Program (DCSMP)” for the District of Columbia’s Latino businesses. Applications are received starting on 8/11/2015.

“The Chamber is committed to the economic growth of Latino and other minority-owned businesses in the Washington metropolitan area and we are truly honored that OLA will be partnering with us on DCSMP,” said Angela Franco, GWHCC President and CEO. “We are excited that this program will benefit the economic growth of the District through the expertise of successful business owners. We will be selecting the best candidates to serve as mentors of businesses and entrepreneurs in need of guidance.”

The mentorship program will allow experienced business owners to impart their knowledge and help small businesses improve processes, customer experience, and strategy. The pilot program, scheduled to start on September 1^st, will consist of five mentors and five mentees who will be meeting on a monthly basis for two hours for six months. There will be an opportunity each meeting to discuss the current state of the business, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats including strategies to leverage expertise.

“OLA is aligned with Mayor Bowser’s commitment to create path to the middle class,” said Jackie Reyes, Director of OLA.  “I’m excited for this partnership with the GWHCC because it gives the opportunity to small disadvantage businesses on best practices for creating long term goals on how to become sustainable.”

The mentorship program is part of the GWHCC’s larger initiative to promote economic growth in the Washington, DC region. Other programs included under this initiative are the technical assistance programs in partnership with the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and Arlington Economic Development.

To learn more about the program, requirements and application visit: DC SmallBiz Mentorship Program

Or contact: Pamela Nieto (202) 340 – 5157  pnieto@gwhcc.org