Ahead of an in-progress comprehensive plan slated for completion later this year, Austin’s Diversity and Ethnic Chamber Alliance (DECA) has secured a commitment from two local banks to loan $1 million to member small businesses. The loans, which will be issued by Business & Community Lenders and Wells Fargo, are tied in part to the […]
Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerc
Posted inAustin
Minority chambers begin work on collective economic equity plan
The four minority chambers of commerce that have for years worked loosely together are moving forward with creating a five-year plan for how to ensure growth in Austin doesn’t bypass minority-owned small businesses. The Austin LGBT Chamber, Greater Austin Asian Chamber, Greater Austin Black Chamber, and Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – which previously worked […]
Posted inCity Hall
Council to consider equitable funding levels for minority chambers of commerce
The city appears to have struck a bargain with four niche chambers of commerce to more equitably distribute each of their annual funding allocations from the city budget. Discussions have been ongoing for years about how to “normalize” the city’s funding for the Austin LGBT Chamber, Greater Austin Asian Chamber, Greater Austin Black Chamber, and […]
Posted inAustin
Local leaders see pandemic, winter storm as openings for economic opportunities
Local leaders say the past 15 months of Austin’s history have been a test for how the city can best serve the people and businesses that are most at risk as growth changes the economics and character of Central Texas. On Wednesday the final Engage Series webinar from Leadership Austin looked at the effects of […]
Posted inAustin
Asian chamber program looks to open contract opportunities for airport expansion
Small businesses owned by women and minorities can get an up-close lesson next month on how they can bid on contracts related to the ongoing expansion work taking place at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce will host the Connect Forum Airport Opportunities session at 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 12 at […]
Posted inBudget
Report gives Council options for equity in funding for chambers of commerce
An analysis of city funding of four minority-based chambers of commerce has offered recommendations for City Council and staff on how to adjust those annual contributions in the coming years to make them more equitable. A report released last week by Economic Development Department Director Veronica Briseño includes the full study and findings from the […]