The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando originated as a result of a merger between two separate and distinct Chambers of Commerce: The Latin Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, Inc., and the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida.  Recognizing the similarities of objectives between these two Chambers, and to strengthen the representation of all Hispanic businesses, these organizations merged and became known as the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, effective February 1st, 1993.

In 1995, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida founded the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund (HBIF) of Greater Orlando, to provide quality bilingual and bicultural technical assistance to the Hispanic business community. HBIF provides technical assistance free of charge to budding Hispanic entrepreneurs and already established Hispanic-owned businesses through its one-on-one approach, and a variety of other business development programs.

In 1996, 1999, 2001, 2002 and 2005, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was awarded "Large Hispanic Chamber of the Year" by the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, for the southeast region, for exemplary commitment to advancing Hispanic business opportunities in the United States.

In 2003, the organization changed its name from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO); the use of the brand name Orlando will enhance the marketing of the organization and Hispanic businesses of the region in a more global scope.

In 2003, the HCCMO hired its first time ever full-time President to enhance the Chamber's leadership role for the Hispanic business community in Metro Orlando.  By the end of 2005, the Hispanic Chamber surpassed the 1,000 membership level with a record number of chamber members actively participating in chamber initiatives.

In 2006, the Hispanic Chamber was awarded "Chamber of the Year" by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP), an organization that represents over 150 chambers of commerce through out the State of Florida.  In 2007, the Hispanic Chamber earned its "certified status" by the FACP, becoming a member of the selected group of chambers of commerce that have earned certification in the State of Florida.

In 2007, the flagship event of the chamber, the Annual Hispanic Business & Consumer Expo achieved exceptional results, attracting over 30,000 attendees, 500 participating organizations and close to 600 exhibitions, making it the biggest Hispanic business and consumer expo in the nation.

The mission of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando is to provide leadership and support the economic development of the Hispanic business community of Metro Orlando.

The vision of the chamber is to be the leading Hispanic business voice of Metro Orlando.

Chamber objectives:

• To strengthen the relationship with Hispanic companies, organizations, professionals, corporations and the numerous cultural and civic entities in Central Florida
• To promote programs, events, resources and activities aimed at improving the economic development of Hispanics in the region
• To serve as the gateway for large organizations/national corporations to connect with the Hispanic business community
• To support other organizations that recognize individual cultures and promote Hispanic integration allowing for the preservation of the Hispanic heritage
• To recognize the achievement of Hispanic individuals and companies that have a positive influence in our community

Membership:

1,365 active members as of July 2007

Programs and services:

• Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo
• Don Quijote Awards
• Business After Hours
• Hola Orlando Jobs
• Festival de Sabores
• "Hablemos de Negocios" radio show
• Hispanic Chamber Business Police Academy
• Political Hob Nob
• Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Program
• Monthly newsletter

Contact information:

President:  Ramon Ojeda.
Chair: Aileen Cubillos
Address:  315 e. Robinson St. Ste. 465. Orlando, FL 32801.
Phone:  407-428-5870
Fax:  407-428-5871
E-mail:  info@hispanicchamber.net
Web site:  www.hispanicchamber.net