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FAQs
Need more information than what we provide below? We’re always around to help answer your questions, and for your convenience we’ve recorded some of our most frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chamber of Commerce?
The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce assists small business owners in building their businesses by providing business services, programs, and access to those that will expedite the achievement of their goals. Through our relationships with numerous agencies, the Hispanic Chamber is equipped with insight and knowledge to assist businesses with certification, education, expansion, and restructuring. Contact the Hispanic Chamber for a list of partnering agencies.
Do I have to be Hispanic to join the Hispanic Chamber?
No. In fact our membership base consists of business owners and professionals from all ethnic backgrounds who all share a mutual desire to grow the West Michigan business community and enhance the quality of life in our city.
Do I need to speak Spanish to join the Hispanic Chamber?
No. The Hispanic Chamber offers all services and programs in English. We also provide our materials in Spanish for all our members who feel more comfortable reading in their native language. Our staff and most or Board of Directors are bilingual; however, we conduct business meetings, signature events and all communications in English.
Do I have to own a business to be a member of the Hispanic Chamber?
No. Our memberships consists of business owners, business professionals, students, and corporate membership.
What can the Hispanic chamber do for me – a small business owner?
The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce assists small business owners in building their businesses by providing business services, programs, and access to those that will expedite the achievement of their goals. Through our relationships with numerous agencies, the Hispanic Chamber is equipped with insight and knowledge to assist businesses with certification, education, expansion, and restructuring. Contact the Hispanic Chamber for a list of partnering agencies.
Does my business have to be located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to be a member of your chamber?
No. Our membership consists of businesses and organizations from all of West Michigan.
Who can become a member of the Hispanic Chamber? How?
Small to medium sized business owners, young professionals, students, and independent entrepreneurs are welcome to join our membership. All members need to submit a membership application via mail or email.
Is there a fee to join the Hispanic Chamber?
There are different categories for membership fees. Apply online for membership or contact Gabriela Hill at Gabriela@westmihcc.org with any membership questions.
When does my membership begin?
Membership becomes active once we received both membership application and payment for membership. There is a confirmation and welcome letter to all new members. Membership will be due one year after the application was received. We send out renewal notices 1 month prior to expiration.
What is requested of me as a member of the Hispanic Chamber?
A member is strongly encouraged to participate in the programs available and attend as many events as possible. The programs and events are an added value to the everyday operations of a business and help to establish relationships with other chamber members that can provide ideas to improve and grow your business.
Who runs the Hispanic Chamber?
Our Board of Directors and President and CEO lead the organization. They are a group of individuals passion-driven who advocate for the Hispanic community and for the businesses in general. Our experienced and diverse team is dedicated to empowering Hispanic businesses and professionals.
What committees does the Hispanic Chamber offer?
The Hispanic Chamber has the following committees:
- Ambassador/Membership Committee
- Building Bridges Through Education Committee
- Programming & Events Committee
- Finance Committee
- Governance & Nominations Committee
How do I join a volunteer committee?
We encourage current members to be more involved with our organization by joining a committee. Contact the chamber at 616-452-3960 or email info@westmihcc.org to learn more about volunteer and committee’s opportunities.
What type of events does the Hispanic Chamber offer?
There are several different networking opportunities with the chamber signature events:
- Membership Meetings: meet monthly on the third Thursday
- After Hours: members host/invite other members to networking events
- Ribbon-cutting ceremonies and open houses
- Annual Awards Gala: celebrate the accomplishments of local business owners
Visit our signature events and membership page to learn more.
Where can I find a listing of upcoming events?
Visit our events page to view all upcoming events. The monthly e-Newsletter also shows upcoming Hispanic Chamber events and members’ events.
Do I have to be a member of the Hispanic Chamber to attend the events?
No; however, Hispanic Chamber members do receive discounts on admission to events.
How do I become a sponsor?
The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce offers different categories for sponsorship at all signature events.
For sponsorship inquiries email Kim Hillebrand at kim@westmihcc.org
Have a question or want to get involved?
We’re here to help you connect with the resources you need, If you have specific questions contact us directly.
