Hispanic Business Leaders Recognized by Indy Chamber at Conexión: 5 for 500

Hispanic Business Leaders Recognized by Indy Chamber at Conexión: 5 for 500

Ind. (May 14, 2024) – The Hispanic Business Council (HBC), a division within the Indy Chamber’s Entrepreneur Services department, is thrilled to announce this year’s Conexión: 5 for 500 awardees. This annual event, held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, brings together corporate leaders, civic influencers, and community members to celebrate the remarkable achievements of five individuals who exemplify excellence in leadership, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

“Through the Hispanic Business Council, we’re able to offer resources specific to the needs of Hispanic business leaders that help drive a culture of collaboration and empowerment,” said Marcela Montero, Director of Indy Chamber’s HBC. “The impact of these visionary leaders, several of whom we are proudly recognizing today, not only drives economic growth but also celebrates the diverse heritage that strengthens the fabric of Indianapolis.”

Honorees for today’s event included:

• ADVOCACY AWARD: Rachel Santos
• LEADERSHIP AWARD: Charles J. Garcia
• SMALL BUSINESS IMPACT AWARD: Antonio Chapital
• TRAILBLAZER AWARD: Karla López Owens
• VISION AWARD: Ruth Morales

Through the Entrepreneur Services department, which includes the Business Ownership Initiative, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses can access microlending and one-on-one business coaching in Spanish and English. Those resources coupled with access to a connected network of regional businesses help improve small business success outcomes. 

To learn more about the Hispanic Business Council, please visit the Indy Chamber website. 

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About the Hispanic Business Council (HBC)
According to a 2018 report prepared by the Indiana Business Research Center at the IU Kelley School of Business in partnership with the IUPUI Office of Community Engagement, Hispanic-owned firms generate roughly $1.1 billion in revenue across the nine-county, Indy region. Hispanic businesses can access coaching, lending, and business education in English and Spanish through the Hispanic Business Council in English and Spanish. These resources not only support entrepreneurs launching new businesses but also ensure that growing and scaling companies have access to mentorship to successfully navigate every stage of their business. Connect with the HBC.