Oct092015
Posted at 10:31 AM
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. In the spirit of this national observance The New York Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) held its 2015 Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration yesterday and honored five people whose service, leadership, and sacrifice exemplify the reason for the commemoration.
Alejandra Y. Castillo, MBDA National Director was one of the five awardees honored at the event. As the first Latina Director of the Minority Business Development Agency, Director Castillo was recognized for her leadership and commitment to the Hispanic business community. Hispanic-owned firms contribute greatly to the U.S. economy and according to preliminary data from the U.S. Census Bureau there are 3.3 million Hispanic-owned businesses, up 47 percent from 2007. These firms contribute $517 billion in U.S. economic output and employ 2.5 million workers. Today MBDA’s commitment to helping Hispanic-owned firms reach their potential is as strong as ever. In fiscal year 2014, MBDA facilitated 2.8 billion in contracts and financing for Hispanic-owned firms. Those transactions supported the creation and retention of approximately 13,000 jobs.
The NY Office of the State Comptroller shares our commitment to ensuring Hispanic-owned businesses have access to procurement opportunities. They have a longstanding and continuing commitment to the participation of minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) in the State’s purchasing activities. Over the past five years, OSC has exceeded their planned MWBE participation goals by actively encouraging MWBE participation in all procurements.
Today, the Hispanic community has much to celebrate and MBDA is a resource for Hispanic-owned firms looking to grow their business.
