LCC Launches LEADers Program to Enhance Workforce Development

News Summary

The Latin Chamber of Commerce has launched the LCC LEADers program, aimed at strengthening workforce development and supporting local small businesses with training and mentorship. Backed by a $500,000 grant, the program provides resources tailored for Hispanic entrepreneurs in Las Vegas. With bilingual access, ongoing mentorship, and a strong focus on leadership skills, the initiative seeks to foster sustainable business growth in the community.

Las Vegas – The Latin Chamber of Commerce (LCC) has officially launched the LCC LEADers program, an initiative focused on enhancing workforce development by providing essential resources and knowledge to local small businesses. The program is supported by a $500,000 grant from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR).

The LCC LEADers program aims to bolster the local economy by equipping small business owners with critical tools required for growth and sustainability. Providing business-accelerator and leadership training, the program targets both existing small business owners and emerging leaders. Participants will have access to mentors who will guide them throughout the year, helping them to avoid common pitfalls in business management and growth.

Maite Salazar, the program director, indicated that many small businesses struggle to nurture and mentor their personnel due to a lack of time and expertise. The LCC LEADers program is designed to address this gap by enhancing the LCC’s existing Executive Business Accelerator, focusing on bridging the skills required for effective leadership.

The structure of the program includes two primary components. The first cohort of participants will start their accelerator training in July. Throughout this phase, they will connect with experienced business coaches from across the United States who will provide tailored guidance. In September, a Personal Leadership Development series will commence, offering a five-week course aimed at fostering leadership skills among both business owners and potential leaders within their teams.

Importantly, the program will be made accessible in both Spanish and English, recognizing the growing demographic of Hispanic-owned businesses in the nation. According to Salazar, there has been a notable increase in the number of Hispanic entrepreneurs, underscoring the need for tailored support and growth tools for Spanish-speaking business owners.

Ongoing technical assistance will be a key component of the LCC LEADers program. This is intended to create a support system that extends beyond graduation, providing participants with continuous mentorship and resources to navigate the complexities of business operation.

Peter Guzman, the CEO and president of the Latin Chamber of Commerce, expressed his commitment to ensuring that participants receive sustained support throughout their journey. The success stories of past program participants, such as Todd Barnes, the COO at RGD Construction, highlight the profound impact of the Chamber’s initiatives. Barnes has participated in multiple LCC programs, including the LCC LEADers initiative, and noted the importance of the networking opportunities provided. His business benefitted significantly from connections made through the Latin Chamber, leading to improved access to financing and resources.

The effort to support small business growth is exemplified by the experiences of the Barnes family, who self-funded their business. They acquired their first company credit card through connections facilitated by the Latin Chamber, which has also enabled them to enhance their nonprofit work.

Beyond direct support, the Latin Chamber shows its dedication to its members by offering free membership upon program completion, demonstrating genuine care and commitment to fostering a thriving business community.

Peter Guzman expressed optimism for the future of the LCC LEADers program, envisioning its longevity and encouraging prospective entrepreneurs to seize the opportunity to join. The launch of the LCC LEADers program embodies a significant step towards supporting small businesses in Las Vegas by nurturing leadership capacities and providing essential resources for sustainable growth.

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Additional Resources

• Latin Chamber of Commerce – LEADers Program
• Wikipedia: Small Business
• Reuters – Small Business News
• Google Search: Workforce Development
• Entrepreneur – Small Business
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Leadership