In order to compete with large companies for contracts, small Asian-American owned businesses face significant hurdles. To address these issues, the USPAACC-SW Education Foundation (USPAACC-SWEF) developed an initiative to help Asian-American business owners find opportunities by creating the first Asian Business Assistance Center (ABAC) in the southwest region. The Asian Business Assistance Center provides relevant training sessions and business knowledge to help these small minority-owned businesses excel in the competitive economic landscape.
The ABAC was officially launched in March 2011, and now USPAACC-SW is celebrating the completion of its first training class: The IT Focus Group Session championed by Russ Damron, Director of Global Procurement of Pepsico.
USPAACC-SW will recognize and celebrate the graduates of the IT Focus Group Session on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the chamber’s Business Presentation and Holiday Luncheon Networking Mixer. The event will begin at 10:45 am and take place at AXA Headquarters on12377 Merit Dr.inDallas,Texas.
According to US Pan Asian American Chamber Southwest President Grace McDermott, the ABAC program was a long time coming. TheAsianBusinessAssistanceCenterprovides much-needed business trainings for small Asian-American owned businesses. ABAC also equips these minority-owned businesses with the tools they need to expand and create jobs in this region.
In addition to the IT Focus Group training, the next ABAC training series will focus on Leadership and Entrepreneurship. The Leadership Series, championed by Jean Lacefield, Manager Supplier Diversity, Frito Lay, will identify areas that will help businesses build long-term relationships and share best practices in business etiquette and networking. The Entrepreneurship Series, championed by Dorothy James McAllister, Supplier Diversity Advocate, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, will address how businesses can gain access to capital, manage growth and operate sustainably and efficiently.
To fund and sustain the success of the ABAC, USPAACC-SW continues to seek funding through grants, corporate membership and sponsorship. In support of the program, Wells Fargo Bank and Texas Health Resources have become the center’s first Legacy Charter Members. The chamber welcomes support from other area corporations and businesses that are interested in helping small, minority business owners develop the skills they need to succeed and stay relevant in the region’s vibrant economy.