Issuu

Special Issue

JULY 31, 2026

THE

S E O R E H D

BEHIN

CELEBRATING ENTREPRENEUR SUCCESS STORIES

pions driving Meet the cham m forward. the LETS Progra

Dr. Jairo Borja, DBA

Reina Valenzuela

LETS

Tatiana Orozco

Daniela Velez

HIGH-IMPACT TRAINING AND MENTORSHIP FOR ENTREPRENEURS READY TO LEVEL UP

APPLICATIONS DEADLINE

AUGUST 14 – OCTOBER 23, 2026 VIRTUAL LIVE SESSIONS EVERY FRIDAY 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

AUGUST 7, 2026

EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS. BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES.

At SHCCNJ, we believe every entrepreneur deserves access to the tools, resources, and mentorship necessary to thrive. That's the mission behind LETS.

What is LETS? The Level-Up Entrepreneurship Training Series is a high-impact, business development program designed for seasoned entrepreneurs ready to take their ventures to the next level. Tailored for business owners who have been in operation for more than one year and are generating $100K+ in annual revenue, this series provides a strategic roadmap for scaling operations, strengthening core business functions, and building long-term sustainability.

Date: August 14, 2026 - October 23, 2026 Time: every Friday, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM Virtual/online - Live sessions Applications Close: August 7, 2026 Apply for LETS Today Your success story could be next.

Scan to apply!

EMPOWERING LATINA ENTREPRENEURS. BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES.

Learn. Empower. Thrive. Succeed.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT: Daniela Velez - dvelez@shccnj.org 201-935-0035

Every Success Story Starts With One Decision What happens when vision, mentorship, and strategy come together? When Monica Suárez joined the SHCCNJ Level-Up Entrepreneurship Training Series (LETS), she wasn't looking for just another business class. She was looking for a roadmap. Like many entrepreneurs, Monica had built a successful business through hard work and determination. But she knew that reaching the next level required something more: strategy, guidance, and a community of business leaders who understood the challenges of growth. Through LETS, Monica worked on strengthening the foundation of her business, refining her brand strategy, and preparing for long-term expansion. Today, her company has undergone a remarkable transformation. Chic Importers | Monica Suárez Mónica has completed a strategic business overhaul to eliminate fragmentation and prepare for the future. The company has officially changed its name to Chic Importers. Mónica has revamped the company’s presence with a unified brand across all digital platforms, and a new website was launched. She is now focused on finalizing a brand identity book and a robust marketing plan. Congratulations, Mónica, on completing this pivotal, future-focused transformation!

✅ Repositioned the business for future growth ✅ Unified branding across digital platforms ✅ Launched a new website ✅ Developed a stronger marketing strategy ✅ Created a roadmap for sustainable business expansion Monica's story is proof that growth isn't always about changing what you do. Sometimes it's about becoming more intentional about how you do it.

A Certification That Opened New Doors Great opportunities often begin with the right preparation. For entrepreneur Salimah Scott, one important breakthrough came from achieving:

✅ Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Certification

✅ Minority/Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Certification

These certifications expanded access to government and corporate contracting opportunities and positioned Urban GLŌ for continued growth. This milestone didn't happen overnight. It required planning. Guidance. Accountability. And a commitment to growth. That's exactly what LETS was built to provide. At SHCCNJ, we're committed to helping entrepreneurs build stronger businesses, stronger communities, and stronger futures. Start building your next business milestone today.

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Who is this program for? Entrepreneurs who have: Been operating for more than one year Generated at least $100,000 in annual revenue Built a team and are creating jobs Are actively preparing to scale How much does it cost? FREE There is no cost to participate. Will I receive a certificate? Yes. All graduates receive a Certificate of Completion. Apply Today!

Business Growth Happens Through Relationships One of the greatest benefits of LETS isn't found in a workbook. It's found in the connections you make. When Pedro Peroni participated in LETS, he embraced one of the program's greatest strengths: the power of the SHCCNJ #Familia Network. Through the program, Pedro connected with fellow entrepreneur Karem Ospino, leading to the creation of a strategic alliance between MV Sales & Logistics Corp and Ospino Consulting. This partnership has expanded their ability to reach new audiences, increase visibility, and introduce their services to a broader market. What started as a connection through LETS became a new business opportunity that continues to support growth and collaboration. Pedro's success story highlights a simple but powerful truth: The right relationship can open doors that years of marketing alone cannot. At SHCCNJ, our mission is to help entrepreneurs gain access to the resources, knowledge, and connections they need to grow. Through LETS, participants become part of a community that believes in collaboration over competition and understands that success is stronger when shared. Pedro's story is a powerful reminder that growth is not only built through strategy and hard work, but also through meaningful relationships. Through LETS and the SHCCNJ #Familia Network, he demonstrated how collaboration can open new doors, create new opportunities, and accelerate business growth. That's the mission behind LETS.

✅ ✅

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What will I gain? You'll receive: Expert-led instruction Access to industry leaders Actionable business tools Peer learning opportunities Personalized mentorship Apply Today!

✅

Walmart Presents SHCCNJ with $5,000 Contribution

“No idea is too small. We’re excited that we get to play a part in helping people grow their vision for what their business could become.” Jonathan M. Hernandez, Walmart Market Manager and Senior Director for South Jersey shared that message during an interview with the SHCCNJ at the reopening of Walmart Store 2254 in Hammonton, New Jersey, on Friday, July 24. Walmart has been a longstanding supporter of SHCCNJ and our mission, consistently sponsoring our Chamber’s Annual Awards Gala and supporting our Corporate Advisory Council Dinner, ETP, the Innovation HUB and the Pitch Competition. We are deeply grateful for Walmart’s continued partnership and investment in New Jersey’s entrepreneurs. | READ MORE

SHCCNJ President & CEO John Lucas Delivers Remarks at Power NJ Act Signing

"The Power NJ Act is an important step forward in strengthening New Jersey's business community and economy through reliable, affordable and scalable energy. When businesses can better manage energy costs and plan with confidence, they are better positioned to invest, hire and grow," said Lucas.

Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo, deputy speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly (Legislative District 14); and Sen. John J. Burzichelli of Legislative District 3. As implementation of the Power NJ Act begins, the Chamber looks forward to working with the Sherrill administration and policymakers to ensure New Jersey's small business community continues to have a voice in shaping the state's energy future. | READ MORE

John Lucas, president and CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ), joined Gov. Mikie Sherrill, legislative leaders and members of New Jersey's business community today in Trenton at the New Jersey State House for the signing of the Power NJ Act, legislation designed to strengthen New Jersey's long-term energy capacity while protecting ratepayers. Lucas was joined in attendance by SHCCNJ Chairman Luis O. De La Hoz and Vice Chair Monica Martinez-Milan. lso in attendance were Michele Siekerka, Esq., president and CEO of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA);

Partner Spotlight: LISC New Jersey Reports $35.5 Million Invested Statewide in 2025

The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) is pleased to share LISC New Jersey’s 2025 Year in Review, highlighting another year of investment in New Jersey’s communities, entrepreneurs and economic development. In 2025, LISC New Jersey invested $35.5 million, leveraged $133 million statewide, supported 57 community partners, and helped create or preserve 163 affordable homes and apartments. As a valued partner, SHCCNJ has collaborated with LISC New Jersey to expand opportunities for small businesses across the state. Earlier this year, SHCCNJ joined LISC New Jersey and Invest Newark to launch Ready, Set, Goal!, a four-part business training series designed to help Newark entrepreneurs prepare for the economic opportunities surrounding this summer’s global soccer tournament. Congratulations to our partners at LISC New Jersey on another year of meaningful impact. SHCCNJ looks forward to continuing our work together to strengthen New Jersey’s businesses and communities. | READ MORE

December 2026

October 22, 2026

4 PM - 7 PM

OceanFirst Bank Headquarters, Red Bank HQ2 110 West Front Street, Red Bank

Sponsors

The Fiesta Continues – and the Beat Is Optimistic Showcasing the chamber’s members in the hospitality and food industries!

The Hospitality Fiesta & Cocktail Party is an event that showcases members of the Chamber working in the hospitality and food sectors, coinciding with the NJ League of Municipalities Convention. This event draws a distinguished audience from public and private sectors in New Jersey, offering them a networking occasion at the vibrant Noyes Art Garage in Atlantic City.

NOVEMBER 17, 2026 THE NOYES ARTS GARAGE, ATLANTIC CITY, NJ 6 PM - 9 PM

PARTNER OFFER

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRAINING 2026 CI Fundamentals (Remote) August 4, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 4, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 6, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

PARTNER OFFER

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRAINING 2026 Executive Six Sigma Overview – Virtual

CMMC Phase II Delay – What It Actually Means for DIB Manufacturers … and What to Do Next

August 10, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 11, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

Multicultural Communication Skills for Supervisors & Managers – North

Safety Day 1 – Part 1 – Basic Material Handling + Ergonomics Awareness Training – North

August 11, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

PARTNER OFFER

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRAINING 2026 Safety Day 1 – Part 2 – Walking Working Surfaces / Fall Protection Awareness Training – North

Safety Day 1 – Part 2 – Walking Working Surfaces / Fall Protection Awareness Training – North

August 11, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

Workplace ESL & Contextual Literacy – Virtual August 12, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 18, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 20, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

PARTNER OFFER

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRAINING 2026 Root Cause Mastery (Remote)

August 24, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 25, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

Building an AI-Ready Workforce – Literacy, Skills, and Industry Applications – North

ISO Compliance in 20262027 – Are you ready?

August 24, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 25 2026 REGISTER NOW!

August 27, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

October 2, 2026 REGISTER NOW!

COMMUNITY PARTNER

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Are you looking for a career that fits your interests and allows you to help your community? Middlesex County has opportunities for people with talent and drive! Our 2,000+ employees work together to provide the services and support that make Middlesex County one of the healthiest, safest, and sustainable places to live work and play. We’re preparing for the future today with our Destination 2040 plan to help local businesses and residents grow and adapt to a continuously changing world. You can build your own future while helping to build the future of your community. With competitive benefits, including a pension plan, on-site wellness coaches, and health and dental insurance, Middlesex County offers the support employees need. The County also promotes a healthy work-life balance with generous vacation, sick, and holiday leave. Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Executive Operations Coordinator Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey Category: Regular Full-Time Department: Department of Community Services Description The Executive Operations Coordinator serves as a key member of the Middlesex County Surrogate’s Office leadership team and provides direct operational, administrative, analytical, and community engagement support to the Surrogate. This position functions as the primary operational liaison for the Surrogate, helping coordinate office operations, workforce administration, appointment scheduling, financial and statistical reporting, community outreach initiatives, constituent-facing programs, executive projects, and special events. Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 3:45 pm (Must be flexible and willing to work outside of regular business hours and weekends if necessary.)

| READ MORE

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

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