A SEASON OF CELEBRATION, GROWTH, AND OPPORTUNITY | |
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As we transition into the fall season, we are excited to welcome a time filled with celebration, growth, and opportunity. Fall not only marks a shift in seasons but also brings with it gala season—a time to honor our accomplishments and continue forging connections that strengthen our business community.
We are particularly excited about the upcoming Asian Chamber Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards on November 1 at the Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria. This event is a special opportunity to celebrate the innovative leaders in our community and honor their contributions to business, growth, and collaboration. I encourage you to save the date and join us for a night recognizing outstanding entrepreneurship.
In addition to our own celebration, we were proud to attend the Asian American Bar Association Gala and the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce 25th Anniversary Gala this past weekend. These events exemplify the strength and unity of the Asian business community here in Houston, and it’s a privilege to see how we continue to support each other’s successes.
We are also thrilled to launch our Executive Business Program this Saturday, September 28, with Bin Yu as our inaugural speaker. This program is designed to provide participants with insights and strategies from seasoned business leaders, starting with Bin Yu’s expertise in strategic planning. His leadership as a former Board Chair of the Asian Chamber and his accomplishments as an entrepreneur make him the ideal speaker to kick off this journey of growth and learning.
As always, we are dedicated to supporting our members in every way possible. From upcoming networking events to educational opportunities, we provide resources that foster your success. I encourage you to stay engaged, take advantage of our programs, and continue to be an active part of this thriving community.
Wishing you all a prosperous and productive fall season.
Warm regards,
Sydney Dao
Board Chair
Asian Chamber of Commerce
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Last Call:
Executive Business Program Begins This Saturday!
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Time is running out to join the Asian Chamber of Commerce's exclusive 8-week Fast Track Business Learning Program, starting this Saturday, September 28, 2024. Now in its 8th year, this unique program offers an executive-level learning experience designed to help participants master key business principles.
With sessions available in both English and Mandarin, this program provides a dual-language environment where participants can learn alongside peers in their preferred language. Participants will dive into crucial business topics each week, including Finance, Accounting, Supply Chain, Sales/Marketing, Human Resources, Exit Strategies, and Certification.
Classes will run every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM through November 16, 2024, offering valuable insights from industry experts and networking opportunities with fellow business leaders. The total fee for the program is $1,288 per person, which includes a one-year membership to the Asian Chamber of Commerce (valued at $200).
This is a rare opportunity to gain essential business skills while expanding your professional network. Secure your spot now before it’s too late!
| | | | Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards | |
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The Asian Chamber of Commerce (ACC) is proud to celebrate over 34 years of service to the Greater Houston Area by recognizing the companies and individuals who have made a significant impact on our community. This year’s Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards promises to be a night to remember, bringing together leaders from across Houston to celebrate excellence in leadership, business innovation, and community impact.
Event Details:
📅 Date: Friday, November 1, 2024
📍 Venue: Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria, 2222 W Loop S, Houston, TX 77056
⏰ 5:30 PM: Registration Begins
⏰ 6:00 PM: Cocktail Hour/VIP Reception
⏰ 7:00 PM: Award Program
The evening will feature a Fashion Runway Presentation by acclaimed designer Chloe Dao, adding an elegant flair to the celebration. Attendees are encouraged to wear black-tie attire (optional) and be ready to connect with influential business leaders dedicated to elevating Houston's economy and supporting the growth of Asian-owned businesses.
This signature event is a unique opportunity to network with key decision-makers and celebrate the outstanding contributions that have shaped our vibrant business community.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking to support the event and further their connection to the Asian business community. For more information, visit the Asian Chamber of Commerce website.
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Wells Fargo Partners with Asian Chamber to Empower Entrepreneurs
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The Asian Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere thanks to Wells Fargo for serving as the presenting sponsor of our Executive Business Program. Wells Fargo is committed to strengthening communities and creating local jobs by investing in underserved small business owners.
Through its businesses and the Wells Fargo Foundation, the organization supports nonprofits that provide critical resources, including capital, technical assistance, and networks of support for entrepreneurs. By aligning its resources and expertise, Wells Fargo works to address complex societal challenges and foster a more inclusive, sustainable future for all.
Wells Fargo places a strong emphasis on funding initiatives that have a wide-reaching impact, particularly those that support underserved communities and promote racial equity. We are grateful for their partnership and dedication to empowering business leaders in the Greater Houston area.
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Asian Chamber Launches Executive Business Program
Keynote by Entrepreneur and Former Board Chair Bin Yu
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The Asian Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Bin Yu as the inaugural speaker for the Executive Business Program on Saturday, September 28. A respected community and business leader, Bin Yu will be sharing his expertise on strategic planning to help participants kick off their journey in this comprehensive program.
As the former Board Chair of the Asian Chamber of Commerce from 2019-2021, Bin Yu has made a lasting impact on Houston’s business community. He is an accomplished entrepreneur with ventures in consulting, technology, and healthcare, and is the Founder and Chairman of Utegration LLC, one of the largest SAP Utilities consulting firms in the industry.
His business acumen has earned him numerous accolades, including Entrepreneur of the Year (2013), the Aggie 100 Award (2014 and 2015), and SAP Partner of the Year (2016). Under his leadership, Utegration was named Supplier of the Year by CenterPoint Energy (2016) and recognized by the Houston Chronicle as one of the Best Places to Work in 2016, 2019, and 2020. Bin Yu was also honored as a winner of Immigrant Business Magazine’s Immigrant Entrepreneur award for his outstanding contributions as a first-generation immigrant, providing career opportunities to aspiring young professionals.
We are excited to have Bin Yu share his knowledge and insights with our Executive Business Program participants and look forward to his continued leadership within our community.
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Member Spotlight:
JLL Houston
A Leader in Commercial Real Estate
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The Chamber is delighted to highlight JLL Houston, a local commercial real estate market powerhouse that consistently delivers exceptional results. With expertise ranging from investment sales and leasing to property management and project development, JLL uses its global platform and deep local knowledge to maximize opportunities in Houston’s dynamic real estate landscape.
In 2023, JLL’s Houston team completed an impressive 1,006 lease transactions, covering 27.1 million square feet and totaling $3.6 billion. This success highlights their unmatched ability to navigate the Houston market. In recognition of their outstanding work, the team received the prestigious NAIOP Office Deal of the Year Award in 2024.
At the forefront of JLL Houston’s success are Harrison Yang, Vice President specializing in Office Tenant Representation, and Jordan Raney, Senior Vice President focusing on Industrial Tenant Representation. With extensive experience across hundreds of real estate transactions, they provide tailored strategies to meet the unique needs of each client, whether leasing, purchasing, subleasing, or selling.
JLL Houston remains a trusted partner in commercial real estate, delivering innovative solutions and transformative outcomes for its clients.
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Ready to Grow?
Join the ACE Accelerator for AAPI Entrepreneurs!
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Are you an AAPI entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level? National ACE is launching a Virtual Accelerator as part of the Capital Readiness Program, designed to connect you with the tools, resources, and networks needed for sustainable growth.
Last year, National ACE helped business owners secure over $40M in funding through loans, venture capital, and grants. This fall, they're offering even more growth opportunities. The accelerator provides expert insights, access to a thriving AAPI business community, personalized coaching, and in-person networking events.
Sessions cover key topics like talent management, funding strategies, supply chain partnerships, government contracting, and more. Sessions run every Tuesday starting September 24; all classes are available on-demand.
Accelerator Schedule & Topics:
Talent and Workplace Best Practices – September 24
Attracting the Right Capital – October 1
Sourcing and Procurement – October 8
Government Contracting – October 15
Online Presence & B2B – October 22
Hiring High Performers – October 29
Start-Up Success – November 1
Don’t miss this chance to grow your business! Sign up today at National ACE Accelerator.
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Buy Houston: By Houston
Supplier Diversity Program
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The Asian Chamber of Commerce proudly participated in a reception hosted by the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority at 51Fifteen, celebrating the launch of the "Buy Houston: By Houston" supplier diversity program. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to support minority, woman, LGBTQIA+, and veteran-owned businesses by creating pathways for these enterprises to access subcontracting opportunities for major upcoming events, including the highly anticipated 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship.
As part of the chamber’s ongoing efforts to promote economic empowerment and equitable business opportunities for diverse communities, the Asian Chamber's involvement aligns with its mission to strengthen the visibility and success of Asian-American businesses across Greater Houston. The "Buy Houston: By Houston" program seeks to boost local participation in Houston’s growing sports economy, connecting diverse suppliers with large-scale projects that can significantly elevate their business profiles.
The Asian Chamber encourages its members and the broader business community to learn more about this initiative and take advantage of the available opportunities. By registering through the program's official website, businesses can be included in a database of qualified suppliers for upcoming projects, ensuring that local businesses remain at the forefront of Houston’s most high-profile events.
For more information and to register for upcoming opportunities, visit: Buy Houston: By Houston.
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Indo-American Chamber of Commerce Gala | |
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Congratulations to the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (IACCGH) on its 25th anniversary gala and awards banquet at the Hilton Americas! 🎉 The Asian Chamber team was proud to join the Indo-American Chamber in celebrating this milestone.
Founded in 1999 by local Indo-American business leaders and professionals, with the guidance of Consul General Rinzing Wangdi, the IACCGH has been instrumental in fostering business relationships and educating the community about the opportunities of doing business with India.
Over the years, IACCGH has become a driving force for economic empowerment, helping minority business owners understand and access resources for small and medium enterprises and opening doors for bilateral trade and business with the world’s largest emerging middle-class market—India. The chamber continues to focus on creating local jobs by encouraging exports to India and promoting bilateral trade opportunities.
Here’s to many more years of success and partnership!
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AABA Gala
Celebrating Legal Advocacy and Community Impact
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The Asian Chamber staff attended the Asian American Bar Association (AABA) Gala last Saturday, celebrating the organization’s incredible impact. Founded to support the small number of Asian-Pacific American lawyers in Houston, the AABA has since grown into the largest collective voice for Texas's Asian-Pacific American legal community.
Today, it represents the interests of over 500 attorneys in the Greater Houston area and is continually evolving to meet the needs of its expanding membership.
Dale Minami was the keynote speaker. Mr. Minami, the first Asian American to receive the prestigious ABA Medal, has dedicated his career to civil rights, focusing on the Asian-Pacific American community and other minorities. Notably, he was part of the legal team that overturned the Korematsu v. United States decision, a landmark case involving Japanese American internment during WWII.
His work in civil rights litigation has shaped legal advocacy for Asian-Pacific Americans, and his legacy inspires future generations.
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Become a member today!
View your ACC membership benefits before joining
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Platinum Corporate Member | |
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3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite 108
Houston, TX 77042
(713) 782-7222
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