GDHCC and DCCC enter into an Agreement Benefiting Minority and Women Entrepreneurs

DALLAS, TX—The Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GDHCC) proved its commitment to its members, once again, by entering into an agreement with the Dallas County Community College District (DCCC) which seeks to increase procurement opportunities for M/WBE’s.

The agreement which will be in effect from November 2, 2005 to August 31, 2006 will allow the Chamber to assist the DCCC in increasing its contracting efforts with minority and woman-owned business enterprises, by increasing business development through developing initiatives and programs.

“This agreement will not only benefit our members, it will also benefit their employees,” said GDHCC Vice President John Martinez. “Employees of M/WBE’s will be encouraged to participate in the District classes; in addition to an increase in procurement opportunities, the Chamber is also improving educational opportunities in the community.”

The agreement will ensure that all M/WBE’s have an equal opportunity to participate in the District’s procurement process. The Chamber will educate its members on the procurement policies and procedures after identifying and understanding the needs of existing and new emerging M/WBE’s.

Other programs and initiatives in discussion as part of the agreement are to:

Identify barriers that M/WBE’s face in conducting business with District and identify solutions.

Apply for grants to fund the educational programs to support business educational programs and share grant opportunities.

Establishing mentor/protégé and internship programs with Chamber members and college staff.

This agreement will surely help in securing more business for Chamber members and other M/WBEs.