Hispanic Enterprise - December 2007/January 2008 - (Page 63) trying to get additional routes and increase border access, Horsman explains. In the last five years, they’ve improved the border infrastructure for a freer flow of commerce, which is terribly important given the backup of trucks coming into the U.S. Many consider the area the world’s busiest border crossing. It’s a top priority for the membership, which ranges from biotechnology, research institutes and pharmaceuticals to military, manufacturing and tourism. Just ask chamber board member Karen Hutchens. Outreach across the border is “important to the region and economy,” she says. “Our organization helps to develop and cultivate a climate in which businesses can thrive.” Bridging the border gap to increase trade opportunities and investments is just one of the chamber’s priorities. Another objective, according to Barrales: “Using technology to create opportunities for chamber members to do business with each other, communicate and network.” Networking is important to members like Jesse Segura, director of sales for Executive Realty and Mortgage Group. “The chamber gives us significant exposure HISPANIC ENTERPRISE * into new markets generating a countless number of business partners.” Segura calls them “power partners.” “We measure DESPITE DEVASTATING WILDFIRES,THE AREA’S HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, ATTRACTIONS AND OTHER BUSINESSES HAVE FORGED AHEAD. our success by relationships that are built,” he adds. Segura heads the chamber’s Business Alliance Group, which meets twice a month. Members share personal and professional strategies, database development ideas, and sales techniques—especially that all-important 30-second elevator pitch. For members like Rosa Maria Robles, president of MANA de San Diego, a nonprofit mentoring program for young Latinas, the chamber is a great resource. It gives her organization exposure to mentors for the hermanitas (MANA is short for hermana, Spanish for sister). “Latinas are very proactive and persistent in starting new business,” Robles says. She hopes to team with the chamber to help the program’s young women start businesses. “It’s important that chambers work with non-profits like us. We’re a different type of member, but should be targeted,” she says. “We need help with things they already have in place.” Those things include expertise on business startup, key contacts and exposure. Whatever the challenge, the business community is ready. Despite the fires, San Diego’s hotels, restaurant and attractions, research institutes and universities have forged ahead. A post-fires video message from Barrales on the chamber’s website reiterated the message of San Diego as America’s Finest City, and how the city, a leader in biotechnology telecommunications, international trade and defense-related industries, is still open for business. “Ruben brought in a more outgoing [approach]—more hands on, more outreach,” Segura says. “A different perspective allows for significant growth.” 63 December/January 2008
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