SHCCNJ President Carlos Medina on ABC 7 New York ‘s Tiempo with Joe Torres – Championing Hispanic Businesses, Securing Growth

On March 2, 2025, Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey President Carlos Medina appeared on ABC 7 New York’s Tiempo with Joe Torres to discuss the Chamber’s growth strategy as federal policies and tariffs threaten Hispanic small businesses.

Medina outlined SHCCNJ’s plan to expand into the New York City metropolitan area, reinforcing its commitment to diversity and inclusive business growth. While popular signature programs like the Hispanic Entrepreneurship Training Program (HETP) have primarily served Latino entrepreneurs, we have also drawn small business owners from diverse backgrounds, and the Chamber plans to continue to grow a diverse pool of members and supporters.

Key Takeaways from the Interview

1. Trump’s Tariffs and Federal Funding Cuts Threaten Small Businesses

Medina warned that federal funding cuts could hurt Hispanic entrepreneurs, particularly as Trump’s economic policies threaten funding that supports organizations like the Chamber.

However, he emphasized that SHCCNJ remains in a strong financial position and will take a pragmatic approach to securing funding through corporate sponsors, strategic partnerships and advocacy efforts in Trenton and Washington to ensure Hispanic businesses continue to thrive.

2. DEI Rollbacks? The Power of the Hispanic Market

Hispanic businesses contribute more than $200 billion annually to the tri-state economy, fueling national growth. Yet, Trump-era policies—including tariffs, immigration crackdowns and the rollback of DEI initiatives—threaten to stall progress. Despite these challenges, SHCCNJ remains a force, equipping business owners with the tools, training and advocacy needed to succeed in an evolving landscape.

As corporate DEI initiatives face political pushback, SHCCNJ is shifting from mandates to economic leverage. Medina urges Hispanic consumers, business leaders, and elected officials to demand stronger representation in leadership and decision-making roles, specifically on corporate boards.

«I never want to mandate… I just want to show, hey, Starbucks, you don’t have a Hispanic on your board of directors. That’s unacceptable because if 20% of your consumers are Hispanic, we want to see ourselves.»
Hispanic businesses are exercising their economic influence, holding corporations accountable and driving real change—not as an obligation, but as a business necessity.

3. Scaling Up: Training, Advocacy and Global Expansion

Rather than retreat, SHCCNJ is expanding its programs, launching a Hispanic Business Hub at the New Jersey City University and strengthening international trade partnerships, particularly in Latin America.

The Chamber is also pushing for policy reforms to expand access to state contracts, ensuring Hispanic businesses get a fair share of government opportunities.

Conclusion: Resilient, Strategic and Unstoppable

Despite policies that could slow Hispanic business growth, SHCCNJ and Latino entrepreneurs remain focused and forward-thinking. Through advocacy, financial strength and strategic expansion, we prove that challenges won’t stop them but will only fuel their momentum.