There are plenty of fun ways to describe Féria de Negocios, the annual business expo by the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey that has long established itself as one of the most important — and certainly the most festive — expo events in the state.
Start with the more than 1,000 registrants at the Pines Manor in Edison. Add in the 150 exhibitors. And be sure to note the more than a dozen restaurant and catering services that made sure no one left hungry.
Then count the 17 national flags present, representing all of Central and South America. And the representatives from the consulates of three countries: Mexico, Colombia and El Salvador — a signal of how the impact of the event extends well beyond New Jersey’s borders.
And, while it’s impressive (and important) to note that Hispanics make up 25% of the New Jersey’s population, are responsible for more than $1 trillion of economic activity in the state — and are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs — there’s one number that truly sets the Hispanic Chamber apart from all others: 40%.
Approximately two in five of the businesses in the Hispanic Chamber are not owned by Hispanics.
That’s by design, CEO Carlos Medina said. And why the Hispanic Chamber is a proud member of a diversity coalition of chambers.
“We know that Hispanics are driving the economy, but this diverse initiative will really help everyone mentor each other,” he said. “Having all boats rise is what the chamber is trying to do at the end of the day.”
Luis de La Hoz, the chairman of the chamber, noted representatives from the African American, Punjabi, Pride and Veterans chambers — among others — were in attendance.
“Many of the veterans happen to be Latino,” he said. “Many of the people from the LGBTQ+ community happened to be Latina — but we’re not doing this just for the Hispanic community. We’re doing this for all minority groups.”
It’s this togetherness that attracts the general consuls.
Mariana Diaz, who heads the first Mexican consulate in New Jersey (it opened in New Brunswick 18 months ago), said Féria de Negocios is a can’t-miss event.
“What I love about the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is that it truly feels like a familia,” she said. “Everybody knows each other and everybody’s happy to be here.
“It also shows that when Hispanics are working together, we are stronger. (This event) truly shows also the power of Hispanic business — how much they contribute to the economy in New Jersey and how many jobs they create.”
A number of elected officials were happy to share in those stats.
Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (D-Perth Amboy) said the day’s turnout proves what she’s known for some time: Hispanic businesses remain a critical economic engine in New Jersey and beyond.
“As a representative of the city of Perth Amboy. I know the role of Hispanic businesses play as employers and, more importantly, in transforming the communities they serve,” she said.
Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez (D-Jersey City), in her first term in office, said the event checked off many boxes for her.
“I always get tickled as a Puerto Rican-born state representative to be anywhere where I get to celebrate my culture and celebrate what we do,” she said. “And I’d really like to thank the Latino entrepreneurs for everything that they do for the New Jersey residents.
“They’re bringing in money, and they’re bringing in jobs and services.”
Assemblyman Gabe Rodriguez (D-West New York) agreed.
“As someone who has been coming to this event for many years, it’s a pleasure to see its growth,” he said.
It’s growth he wants to see continue — one business at a time.
“It’s part of the American dream to have your own business, to start from scratch and build something,” he said. “And, when you hear things like the Hispanic business community is the fastest- and largest-growing community, when you hear that Latinos are the most brand-loyal community and the most engaged on social media, you’re excited.
“The Hispanic Chamber is here to expand on that. We want to support them because they support our community.”