Inaugural Meeting of the National Advisory Council for Minority Business Enterprises

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On Friday, March 11^th the National Advisory Council for Minority Business Enterprises (NACMBE), convened for its inaugural meeting at the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, DC.  The meeting was led by David Hinson, National Director of the Minority Business Development Agency, and NACMBE Chairs, Mark Hoplamazian, Chief Executive Officer of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Janice-Savin Williams, Founder of Williams Capital. Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke, as well as International Trade Administration Under Secretary, Francisco Sanchez welcomed the council members. Read Meeting Minutes

The council, gathered to discuss the future direction of the nation’s 5.8 million minority-owned firms, is the first of its kind since the 1970’s. Dialogue centered on 21^st century economic challenges including, strategic growth models, methods for creating green jobs, building capacity, and global trade opportunities.  After a successful day of examining some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing minority-owned firms, the council began to formulate what policy topics they will focus on to advise the Secretary of Commerce.

The March 11^th meeting was the first of several to come this year.  Going forward, the council will continue to meet and advise the Secretary to ensure the interests of the minority business community  are integrated in the Department of Commerce policies and programs. Future meeting dates and policy topics will be posted in the Federal Register and at MBDA Advisory Council.

Members of the advisory council are experienced business executives and entrepreneurs from both small businesses and multinational corporations. Advisory council members represent a broad range of industries – including technology, energy, financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality and construction. The culmination of their business experiences will ensure comprehensive policy recommendations are presented to the Secretary.

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