Standing Strong, Growing Together:

Flood Relief, Business Resources, and 35 Years of Empowering Asian American Entrepreneurs

Our hearts go out to the families and communities impacted by the recent devastating floods across Texas. We extend our deepest sympathies to those who have suffered loss and disruption, and we stand in solidarity with the many first responders and volunteers providing critical support during this challenging time.

Even as we navigate these local hardships, the Asian Chamber of Commerce remains focused on advancing opportunities for our business community. Next week, Board Chair Fan Chen, along with a small delegation of Houston-based business owners, is traveling to China on a trade mission aimed at expanding global partnerships and fostering economic exchange. We are proud to represent Houston’s dynamic business ecosystem on the international stage.

Lastly, as we continue to grow and serve, we look forward to celebrating a major milestone—our 35th Anniversary. For over three decades, the Asian Chamber has been a strong advocate for Asian-owned businesses and a bridge to opportunity in Greater Houston. We hope you will join us in commemorating this legacy at our Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards Gala on November 1.

Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey with us.

Standing in Solidarity with Texans Impacted by Flooding

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, individuals, and businesses affected by the recent devastating floods in Kerrville and across the Texas Hill Country. As the region begins the long road to recovery, many of us are asking how we can help.

Several trusted organizations have launched aid efforts, and monetary donations are currently the most effective way to support rescue and relief operations:

Kerr County Flood Relief Fund – Managed by The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, this fund supports vetted organizations providing rescue, recovery, and flood assistance. Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
H-E-B Spirit of Giving Fund – Customers can donate in-store or online. H-E-B is directing 100% of contributions to flood relief efforts. DONATE – Spirit of Giving Fund
GoFundMe Texas Flood Relief Page – A collection of verified fundraisers helping families and communities in need. How You Can Help: Donate to Texas Flood Relief Fundraisers

We’re also proud to highlight the incredible efforts of Chef Lena Le, a longtime Chamber member and community leader, who is mobilizing her team and plans to provide warm meals to displaced families and first responders beginning this weekend. Her compassion and leadership exemplify the power of local businesses in times of crisis.

As always, please take precautions when donating. Use platforms like Charity Watch and GuideStar to verify nonprofit organizations. Avoid unsolicited donation requests via text or phone and never provide personal or financial information unless you’re certain of the source.

Now is the time for our community to show the strength of compassion and unity. Together, we can help our fellow Texans rebuild and recover.

Grow Your Business Expertise with Our 8-Week Business Essentials Program

Weekly classes cover critical skills for long-term success

—in English or Mandarin

LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? The Asian Chamber of Commerce invites you to enroll in our 8-Week Fast Track Business Learning Program, designed to equip entrepreneurs and business owners with the practical knowledge and tools needed to grow and sustain a successful enterprise.

Beginning September 27, 2025, classes will be held every Saturday from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, covering a wide range of essential topics, including:

Finance & Accounting
Supply Chain Management
Sales & Marketing
Human Resources
Exit Strategies
Business Certification

Whether you're looking to strengthen your operations, expand your market, or prepare your business for future growth, this program provides a solid foundation taught by industry professionals.

Program Details:

📅 Dates: Saturdays, September 27 - November 15

🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

🗣 Languages: English and Mandarin

📍 Format: In-person sessions with networking opportunities

💵 Cost: $1,288 per person – includes course materials and a 1-year ACC membership (a $200 value)

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain hands-on insights and connect with other business professionals. Invest in your future—and let the Asian Chamber of Commerce be your partner in success!

Unlock the Full Value of Your Chamber Membership at Our Monthly Meetup

Learn how to grow your business with the Chamber

Whether you’re a new member or simply exploring what the Asian Chamber of Commerce has to offer, our Monthly Membership Meetup is the perfect starting point.

Join us Friday, July 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the ACC Office for a step-by-step session designed to help you get the most out of your membership. You'll learn how to align your business goals with the Chamber’s mission, values, and structure—and how to plug into our programs and events planned for 2025.

This in-person info session is free and open to both members and non-members, so bring a colleague or friend who may be interested in joining the ACC community.

Event Details:

📅 Date: Friday, July 11, 2025

🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM CST

📍 Location: Asian Chamber of Commerce

3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite 108

Houston, TX 77042

Click here to register

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how the Chamber can support your success in 2025 and beyond!

Summary of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and Impact on Small Businesses in Texas

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is a comprehensive tax and economic policy package designed to promote business investment, job creation, and long-term economic growth. The bill has generated a mix of reactions, but here’s a balanced look at what it could mean for small business owners—especially those in our Asian Chamber community here in Texas.

Key Provisions Benefiting Small Businesses:

Increased Expensing Cap (Section 179): Small businesses can now deduct up to $2.5 million (up from $1 million) for equipment purchases in the first year. This change reduces the cost of capital investments and could encourage expansion or modernization.
Permanent 20% Deduction for Pass-Through Entities (Section 199A): Businesses such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S-corporations—common in Texas—will permanently benefit from the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, helping lower their effective tax rate.
Immediate Expensing for Capital Investments: Businesses can deduct 100% of qualified capital expenses immediately rather than depreciating them over time. This can improve cash flow and incentivize equipment or facility upgrades.
Expanded Small Business Stock Gain Exclusion (Section 1202): Investors in qualifying small businesses may now exclude more capital gains if they hold stock for over five years. This could help Texas startups attract more investment.
Enhanced Employer-Provided Child Care Credit: The credit increases from $150,000 to up to $600,000 for small businesses, covering up to 50% of childcare expenses. This may help address workforce retention and attract employees, particularly in industries facing labor shortages.

Potential Concerns or Tradeoffs:

National Debt and Federal Spending: The Congressional Budget Office projects the bill could add over $3 trillion to the national debt. While supporters argue growth will offset this, others worry it could limit future funding for infrastructure or public programs.
Cuts to Social Safety Nets: Changes to Medicaid and SNAP could indirectly affect small businesses that employ lower-wage workers or operate in communities with high dependency on these programs. Reduced assistance could impact consumer spending and employee stability.
Energy Costs: Phasing out clean energy tax credits may lead to higher energy costs, particularly in a state like Texas where energy-intensive industries are prominent. This could affect operating costs for some businesses.
Economic Distribution: While high-income earners and corporations may see larger average tax savings, some analysts suggest lower-income households may experience limited or negative after-tax effects, which could impact small business customer bases in low-income areas.

Texas-Specific Implications:

Manufacturing and Energy Sectors—key pillars of Texas’ economy—are likely to benefit from increased spending and investment incentives.
Entrepreneurs and Startups in Texas’ growing tech and innovation hubs (e.g., Austin, Houston) may gain from enhanced capital gains exclusions and childcare support.
Rural and Underserved Communities may see mixed effects, especially if social service reductions affect consumer spending or workforce participation.

In Conclusion:

The OBBBA offers significant tax relief and investment incentives for small businesses, which could promote expansion, hiring, and long-term growth—particularly in business-friendly states like Texas. However, concerns remain about its potential impact on the national deficit, public programs, and lower-income households. Small business owners in Texas should evaluate how the provisions align with their specific needs and consult financial professionals to fully understand the benefits and risks.

Member Spotlight:

Mercenary Group

Company: Mercenary Group

Website: www.mercsales.com

Contact: Justin Vandenbrink, President | (832) 289-1897

With over 20 years of experience in business development and sales, Mercenary Group brings a fresh and strategic approach to boosting sales and marketing efforts for businesses of all sizes. Specializing in Energy, Tech, and Retail, this Houston-based firm helps companies fast-track their growth by stepping in with short-term contract support—saving clients the cost and commitment of hiring a full-time sales team.

“We get you to the front of the line, fast,” says President Justin Vandenbrink. As seasoned entrepreneurs themselves, the Mercenary Group team knows what it takes to help small businesses with great ideas thrive.

New to the Asian Chamber of Commerce, Mercenary Group is already tapping into the Chamber’s high-energy network and looks forward to connecting at upcoming luncheons and golf events. Justin notes, “We really appreciate the focused and ambitious network the Chamber has created.”

If your business needs an experienced partner to help reignite sales, contact Mercenary Group today. Justin is always available for a quick call or coffee to discuss how to get your business development plan on track.

Celebrate 35 Years of Empowering Asian American Businesses

Join us for an unforgettable evening honoring leadership, excellence, and community impact

This year marks a major milestone for the Asian Chamber of Commerce—35 years of championing Asian American businesses in the Greater Houston area. We invite you to join us in commemorating this legacy at the 35th Annual Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards Gala.

For over three decades, the Chamber has recognized outstanding individuals and businesses that have made a lasting impact on our community. The Gala brings together influential leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to celebrate excellence in leadership, business growth, and community service.

Event Details:

📅 Date: October 25, 2025

📍 Location: Post Oak Hotel - 1600 W Loop S, Houston, TX 77027

🎩 Attire: Black Tie Optional

By attending, you’ll be surrounded by some of the city’s most influential business leaders—all united in the mission to uplift and support Houston’s vibrant Asian business community. It’s more than an evening of celebration—it’s a chance to connect, be inspired, and show your support for the economic and cultural contributions of Asian American entrepreneurs.