THE ACC AMPLIFIER: SUPPORTING HOUSTON'S BUSINESS COMMUNITY THROUGH CHALLENGES AND CHANGE

Honoring Visionaries, Empowering the Next Generation:

Entrepreneurship Spirit Awards Nears!

Get ready, Houston—the celebration of the year is almost here! On Saturday, October 25, the Post Oak Hotel will come alive as we honor 35 years of innovation, leadership, and the unstoppable spirit that defines our Asian business community.

✨ This isn’t just a gala—it’s a night of glamour, connection, and inspiration where business leaders, community champions, and elected officials unite to celebrate those shaping Houston’s future. If you haven’t already, grab your tickets or reserve your table today! This event will sell out, and you won’t want to miss the chance to mingle, make meaningful connections, and celebrate our honorees in style.

🌱 New This Year: We’re thrilled to launch the Youth Advisory Council, empowering the next generation of Asian American leaders through mentorship, civic engagement, and community action. Their energy reminds us that our future is not only bright—it’s already in motion!

💼 As we navigate challenges like the recent government shutdown, know that the Asian Chamber is here for you. Whether its SBA resources, government contracting support, or business connections, we’re committed to helping our members thrive—no matter the climate.

Let’s come together to celebrate excellence, lift each other higher, and keep building a stronger, more inclusive Houston.

I can’t wait to see you at the Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards as we mark 35 incredible years of connection, leadership, and legacy. 🌟

Warm regards,

Fan Chen

Chair, Asian Chamber of Commerce

Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards Tickets

We're Just Days Away:

Celebrate 35 Years of Impact at the
Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards

Join us Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the elegant Post Oak Hotel as the Asian Chamber of Commerce celebrates 35 years of empowering Houston’s Asian business community!

An evening that unites visionaries and changemakers in celebration of achievement, connection, and the enduring legacy of leadership across Houston.

🎤 Distinguished Speakers:

✨ Mona Dexter, VP, Military & Veteran Affairs, Comcast NBCUniversal

✨ The Honorable Donald Cravins, Jr., Former Deputy Secretary of Commerce and CEO of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)

✨ Dr. Ruth López Turley, Director, Kinder Institute for Urban Research

🏆 2025 Honorees:

Omair Tariq, CEO & Co-Founder, Cart.com – Entrepreneur of the Year
AOI Corporation – Enterprise of the Year
Wells Fargo – Corporate Champion Award
Houston Asian American Archive @ Chao Center for Asian Studies – Community Ambassador Award

🎉 Spotlight on Auction Chair – Washington Ho

Entrepreneur, investor, and “House of Ho” star Washington Ho leads this year’s Auction, featuring exclusive experiences, luxury items, and high-value packages.

💫 Proceeds support the Chamber’s education and scholarship initiatives.

👉 Want to make an impact? Donate an item or plan your bids now! Contact Paul Gor at pgor@asianchamber-houston.org to donate today!

🌱 New This Year:

We’re launching the Asian Chamber Youth Advisory Council—a leadership initiative empowering the next generation through mentorship, community engagement, and civic participation.

🗓️ Event Schedule:

5:30 PM – Registration
6:00 PM – Cocktail Hour
7:00 PM – Program & Awards
9:00 PM – After Party with Live Band

📍 The Post Oak Hotel | 1600 W Loop S, Houston, TX 77027

👗 Attire: Black Tie Optional

🎟️Sponsorships and tables are still available — click here to learn more. Come connect, celebrate, and be part of history as we mark 35 years of building a stronger, more inclusive Houston.

Celebrating Texas Chamber of Commerce Week

October marks Texas Chamber of Commerce Week, a statewide celebration recognizing the vital role chambers play in strengthening local economies and improving quality of life for Texans. Officially proclaimed by Governor Greg Abbott and coordinated by the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE), the week unites chambers across the state in sharing the story of business growth, collaboration, and community impact.

Chambers serve as powerful connectors—linking businesses, workforces, and communities to drive investment, create jobs, and champion small business success. With over 3.5 million small businesses representing 99% of all Texas enterprises, chambers provide the visibility, advocacy, and support entrepreneurs need to thrive.

From leadership development to workforce training, chambers invest in people and progress—making Texas the #1 state for business for 21 consecutive years and home to 54 Fortune 500 headquarters.

As proud advocates for the Asian business community, the Asian Chamber of Commerce Houston joins fellow chambers statewide in celebrating this week and reaffirming our commitment to collaboration, innovation, and economic opportunity for all.

🏆 Texas—21 years as Best State for Business

🏆 13 years Governor’s Cup for Corporate Relocations

💼 #1 in jobs created by Black, Hispanic, women, and veteran business owners

New Member Spotlight:

Welcome Duque Roofing, Inc.!

Please join us in welcoming Duque Roofing, Inc. to the Asian Chamber of Commerce! This locally owned and family-operated company recently earned the prestigious title of Owens Corning Roofing Platinum Preferred Contractor—a distinction awarded to only 25 companies across the greater Houston and Sarasota areas. This honor recognizes Duque Roofing as part of an elite network known for exceptional service, reliability, and craftsmanship.

With over 50 years of combined experience, Duque Roofing specializes in both residential and commercial projects, is fully licensed and insured, and proudly supports veterans and hurricane relief efforts. The company is dedicated to protecting homes and businesses while delivering outstanding customer satisfaction.

Immigration and Workforce:

A Business Imperative for Houston

Last Friday, the Asian Chamber of Commerce hosted a timely and thought-provoking webinar focused on immigration’s role in shaping Houston’s workforce and economy. With approximately two dozen participants, the event underscored the importance of staying informed and advocating for policies that support business growth and community resilience.

Immigration is more than a political talking point—it’s a cornerstone of Houston’s innovation and economic vitality. The program featured speakers Chelsie Kramer (American Immigration Council) and Andrea Castaneda-Lauver (National Immigration Forum), who offered practical insights and tools tailored for business leaders navigating today’s complex immigration landscape.

Key takeaways included:

Immigration’s Economic Impact: Houston and Texas rely heavily on immigrant talent to drive innovation and fill critical workforce gaps.
Hot Topics for Employers: Updates on H-1B visas and other policy developments that affect hiring and retention.
The Power of Naturalization: Citizenship not only empowers individuals—it strengthens entire communities and offers new opportunities for employee support.

Participants walked away with actionable strategies to foster inclusive workplaces, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with other leaders committed to advancing workforce solutions.

As Houston continues to grow, ACC remains dedicated to equipping our members with the knowledge and resources to lead with purpose and impact.

Click Here to See the Presentation

Government Shutdown:

What Small Businesses Need to Know

The federal government shutdown that began October 1, 2025, is creating ripple effects across the economy. Here’s how it may impact small businesses and entrepreneurs — and what you can do now.

🔍 Key Impacts

SBA Loans on Hold: New small business loans and guarantees are paused until funding resumes.

Federal Contracts Delayed: Government contractors may face stop-work orders or payment delays.

Permits & Approvals Slowed: Regulatory reviews, licenses, and import/export clearances may take longer.

Reduced Consumer Spending: Furloughed federal workers spend less, affecting local retail and restaurants.

IRS Service Delays: Expect slower tax processing, limited refunds, and fewer customer service responses.

Hiring Delays: Systems like E-Verify may be offline, stalling employee onboarding.

💡 What You Can Do

✅ Review contracts for shutdown clauses

✅ Communicate early with contracting officers or partners

✅ Explore local or private lenders for financing

✅ Conserve cash and postpone nonessential spending

✅ Stay informed and connected with local Chambers and business networks

🤝 The Chamber’s Commitment

The Asian Chamber of Commerce stands with Houston’s business community. We’re monitoring updates, sharing resources, and advocating for the swift restoration of services that support small businesses and entrepreneurs.

📩 Have you been affected? Email us at info@asianchamber-hou.org so we can connect you with resources.

Celebrate the Holidays with Us at the Annual Meeting & Holiday Luncheon

As the year comes to a close, we invite you to join the Asian Chamber of Commerce for a joyful afternoon of connection, reflection, and celebration at our Annual Meeting & Holiday Luncheon — our final event of 2025!

Gather with fellow business and community leaders as we celebrate another impactful year of strengthening Houston’s Asian business community. This annual tradition brings members and partners together to enjoy a festive meal, honor our accomplishments, and look ahead to an exciting new year.

During the luncheon, we will also introduce and officially vote in the 2026 Board of Directors, marking the beginning of another year of growth, innovation, and collaboration.

📅 Event Details

Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Omni Houston Hotel

📍 4 Riverway Dr, Houston, TX 77056

🎟️ Register Today

Seating is limited — don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the season and connect with fellow members and partners as we look toward 2026 with excitement and optimism.

Let’s close the year together in the spirit of community, collaboration, and celebration!