Luis Aju Named Chair of Hispanic Business Council for 2025

Leading efforts to empower Hispanic businesses, Aju succeeds Juan Gonzalez as Council Chair.

Indianapolis (Dec. 16, 2024) – The Hispanic Business Council (HBC) of the Indy Chamber is excited to announce Luis Aju as its new Chair for 2025. Aju is a seasoned financial professional and active community leader who brings a wealth of experience and vision to the council. Tracy Guerrero, Manager of Air Service Development at  Indianapolis Airport Authority, will serve as the Vice Chair. Together, they will build on the incredible momentum of the council’s impactful work under the leadership of Juan Gonzalez, outgoing Chair and Central Indiana Market President for KeyBank.

“The Hispanic Business Council has become a vital resource for business owners in the Indy region, supporting growth and promoting meaningful connections,” Aju said. “I’m honored and humbled to lead this council as we continue to empower Hispanic businesses to thrive.”

Aju, Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager at Fifth Third Bank's Middle Market Banking group brings 15 years of financial industry experience and a strong dedication to community engagement. Aju has served on several boards, including La Plaza Finance Committee, INVETS, and the YMCA Greater Louisville Community Board. With a proven track record in delivering integrated financial solutions, Aju is well-positioned to drive strategic growth and provide meaningful support for Hispanic businesses in the Indianapolis region.

Marcela Montero, Director of the HBC, shared her enthusiasm for the transition in leadership. “Luis’s dedication and expertise make him the ideal person to guide the council into the future. Under his leadership, we will continue to create opportunities and provide critical resources that enable Hispanic businesses to flourish in the Indy region,” Montero said. “We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Juan Gonzalez for his outstanding service and the lasting impact he has made.”

Under Gonzalez’s leadership, in 2024 the HBC facilitated over $80,000 in small business loans, secured $230,000 in grants, and expanded bilingual services to support 76 businesses. His leadership set a strong foundation for the HBC’s continued success. “It has been an honor to serve as Chair of the Hispanic Business Council,” Gonzalez said. “I am proud of the strides we’ve made in advancing opportunities for Hispanic entrepreneurs and business owners, and I look forward to seeing the council reach new heights under Luis’ leadership.”

The HBC serves over one hundred Hispanic Business members at the Indy Chamber. It comprises 25 members dedicated to advancing the success of Hispanic-owned businesses, which generate approximately $1.1 billion in annual revenue across the nine-county Indy region. Free resources in English and Spanish allow the HBC to deliver tailored support through workshops, networking events, and one-on-one coaching sessions. In 2024 alone, the council facilitated significant financial and educational resources, strengthening its role as a cornerstone for Hispanic business success.

To learn more about the HBC and connect with its leaders, visit IndyChamber.com/HBC.

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