This week, NPRCC Board Member Laura Maristany and our VP of Small Business Development, DJ Lampitt, had the opportunity to meet with Senator Carmelo Rios to discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence and technology in Puerto Rico’s economic future.
Together, we explored ways to foster innovation, encourage collaboration, and create opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the island.
Stay tuned for exciting events, workshops, and initiatives aimed at empowering our communities through tech and innovation. 🚀 #GrowPR
Uncorrelated Puerto Rico - 2025: A New Era for Caribbean Alternatives
🎉 A Huge Thank You from the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce! 🇵🇷 🌍
We were honored to have co-hosted Uncorrelated Puerto Rico & the Caribbean 2025, and what an incredible inaugural event it was! Over 450+ attendees joined us across two unforgettable days—featuring powerful panels, meaningful connections, and vibrant celebrations. From the Sunset Reception & Opening Cocktails to the Big Party at La Factoría, the energy and engagement from the on-island alternatives community and our network abroad made this gathering truly special.
We're grateful to the investors, fund managers, family offices, and ecosystem leaders who came together to build bridges across Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and the mainland. #GrowPR
NPRCC Joins “Building a Workforce Strategy for a Strong Digital Economy in Puerto Rico" Roundtable
The NPRCC team was proud to participate in the recent Digital Empowerment Roundtable hosted by our partners at Friends of Puerto Rico focused on “Building a Workforce Strategy for a Strong Digital Economy in Puerto Rico.” As Puerto Rico continues to pursue sustainable economic growth, we recognize that technology is no longer just a sector—it’s the engine driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and resilience across all industries.
This roundtable brought together leaders from government, business, workforce development, and nonprofits to discuss actionable strategies in three key areas:
Workforce Development Aligned with Market Needs
Supporting Entrepreneurship
Strengthening Small Business Digital Infrastructure
We’re excited to collaborate on initiatives that will help upskill local talent, empower entrepreneurs, and bolster digital capacity for small businesses across the island. Together, we’re working toward a more connected, skilled, and digitally empowered Puerto Rico. #GrowPR
NPRCC Welcomes WindMar Group as New Corporate Member
Orlando, Florida, April 8th, 2025 — The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is proud to announce WindMar Group as the newest Corporate Member of the Chamber.
A leader in renewable energy, WindMar Group has been a trailblazer in solar energy solutions throughout the Caribbean and Florida since 2002. WindMar’s commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns with the NPRCC’s mission to foster economic growth, empower Puerto Rican entrepreneurs, and promote forward-thinking business partnerships.
“We’re honored to welcome WindMar Group to the NPRCC,” said Joel Berrocal, Executive Director of the Chamber. “Their leadership in renewable energy is exactly the kind of impact-driven business we aim to amplify. Together, we’re lighting the way toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for Puerto Rican communities across the mainland and the islands.”
As a Corporate Member, WindMar Group joins a powerful network of organizations dedicated to advancing economic opportunity and creating a lasting legacy of Puerto Rican excellence in business.
NPRCC Welcomes Three New Board Members to Advance Economic Empowerment and Innovation
Washington, D.C. - April 7th,2025 – The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is proud to announce the addition of three distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors: Dr. José Morey, Laura Maristany, and James Berrocal Sizemore. Each brings a wealth of experience, innovative leadership, and a shared commitment to economic development and community advancement — strengthening NPRCC’s mission to empower Puerto Rican businesses and entrepreneurs across the United States and Puerto Rico.
Dr. José Morey, a visionary at the intersection of health, technology, and space, is the CEO and Founder of Ad Astra Media LLC and Co-Founder of Ever Medical Technologies. Widely recognized as the world’s first “Intergalactic Doctor,” Dr. Morey has served as a consultant for NASA, Forbes, MIT, and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. His groundbreaking work in innovation and medicine has helped position Puerto Rico as the future "Silicon Island," with features in Forbes, CNBC, and Hispanic Executive. He is also the co-author of the best-selling book Latinx Business Success. Dr. Morey’s expertise in entrepreneurship and advocacy for Latino business excellence makes him an invaluable asset to NPRCC’s vision for economic empowerment.
Laura Maristany, a seasoned advocate, community builder, and impact-driven leader, brings over two decades of experience in philanthropy, corporate affairs, and policy. She is the Founder & CEO of Prospera Insights LLC, advising on tech-driven economic growth and workforce innovation. Her tech startup, Katch Skills, is redefining how we capture and value real-world learning. A recognized force in fundraising and public policy, Laura has helped raise millions for global initiatives and has been awarded the prestigious Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit by the King of Spain. Her deep Capitol Hill experience and nationwide influence will amplify NPRCC’s efforts in shaping a stronger economic future for Puerto Rican communities.
James Berrocal Sizemore joins the board with more than 30 years of leadership in the data management industry, spanning entrepreneurial startups to global corporations. As Chief Strategist at Informatica, he leads the company’s global insurance industry go-to-market strategy. James is a sought-after thought leader, keynote speaker, and evangelist. Speaking on his appointment, he said: "I'm the proud son of a serial Puerto Rican entrepreneur from Lares. He was one of seventeen kids raised in a tiny 800 sq. ft. home, where he learned the values of hard work, family, and faith. My dad had an unparalleled work ethic and an even stronger sense of community — his work ethic took him far from the island, but his commitment to uplifting his community always brought him home. I'm thrilled to join the NPRCC board — yes, to support its vital mission, but even more personally, to honor the legacy of my father."
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Dr. José Morey, Laura Maristany, and James Berrocal Sizemore to our Board of Directors,” said Joel Berrocal, Executive Director of NPRCC. “Each of them brings a powerful blend of innovation, advocacy, and personal passion for advancing Puerto Rican prosperity. Their leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Puerto Rican businesses and entrepreneurs.”
As NPRCC continues its work to foster economic opportunity, support entrepreneurship, and advocate for policies that uplift Puerto Rican businesses, the guidance of Dr. Morey, Laura Maristany, and James Berrocal Sizemore will be instrumental in driving meaningful impact.
#GrowPR
Medicaid Cuts Could Endanger Care for Puerto Rican Autoimmune and Neuromuscular Patients
Thousands of Puerto Ricans are living with complex chronic conditions like autoimmune and neuromuscular disorders, which require specialized medical care, expensive medications, and ongoing therapy. For many, Medicaid is a crucial lifeline to access care and maintain independence.
Congress is considering proposed federal cuts to Medicaid funding that would deeply impact the disability community even though President Trump has said on numerous occasions he doesn’t want them touching Medicaid. Puerto Rico already faces significant healthcare disparities, including a shortage of specialists and limited access to advanced treatments. Reducing Medicaid support would mean fewer therapy sessions, limited access to life-sustaining medications, and delayed diagnoses — leading to a diminished quality of life.
Children and adults with muscular dystrophy, in particular, depend on Medicaid for physical and occupational therapy, as well as in-home care, that helps maintain mobility and independence. Without this support, families will be forced to make impossible choices between essential medical care and other basic needs.
Congress must recognize the critical importance of Medicaid for Puerto Rico’s most vulnerable populations. Cutting Medicaid is not just a budgetary decision — it’s a life-altering consequence for those with muscular dystrophy and autoimmune diseases. Our leaders must protect Medicaid funding and ensure that all Puerto Ricans have access to the care they need and deserve.
Joel Berrocal serves as the Executive Director of The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC.) The NPRCC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to support the development of entrepreneurship, innovation, and business expansion throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Mainland by providing a comprehensive resource for incubating business ideas, leveraging new markets, taking advantage of new opportunities, and advocating for policies that help our communities grow.
Opinion - Puerto Rico: America’s Manufacturing Powerhouse in Waiting
Read the latest op-ed titled “Puerto Rico: America’s Manufacturing Powerhouse in Waiting”, by NPRCC Executive Director Joel Berrocal on the unique opportunities that tariffs and tax incentives create for Puerto Rico. #GrowPR
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Applauds Introduction of the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures Act
Washington, D.C. (February 27, 2025) – Today, the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement applauding the introduction of the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act, a bill proposing to equalize the period that small-molecule drugs and biologics are exempt from government price controls under the Inflation Reduction Act.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is grateful to Reps. Greg Murphy (R-NC), Don Davis (D-NC), and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) for introducing the EPIC Act. We remain worried about the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act's price controls. In Puerto Rico, the bioscience industry indirectly or directly supports close to 80,000 jobs, many of which are in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Price controls will inevitably reduce the number of drugs developed, so will inevitably reduce manufacturing demand. This is especially worrisome for the Puerto Rican business community. But we're thrilled that Congress is working to fix the law's 'small-molecule penalty.' It made no sense for lawmakers to subject small-molecule medicines to price controls sooner than biologics. By exempting both classes of medicine from price controls for 13 years, the EPIC Act will ensure that science – not politicians – drives investment decisions for life-science researchers.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce urges Congress to pass the EPIC Act.
About Us:
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)3 non-profit committed to fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and business growth throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland. We serve as an all-encompassing resource for incubating business ideas, capitalizing on new markets, seizing fresh opportunities, and advocating for policies that catalyze community growth.
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NPRCC Backs Bipartisan Health Care Deal for Drug Pricing Transparency
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce stands in strong support of the bipartisan health care deal that prioritizes patient affordability and transparency in prescription drug pricing. By delinking Medicare reimbursements to pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from the list price of drugs, this proposal takes a crucial step toward reducing the financial strain on patients and small businesses alike.
For too long, inflated drug costs have placed an undue burden on Puerto Rican and Hispanic communities, as well as the small business owners who serve them. Addressing the misaligned incentives that drive up prices ensures that Medicare funds are used efficiently to provide greater value to patients.
We commend lawmakers for their commitment to delivering meaningful reform that balances the need for affordability and innovation while supporting economic stability for small businesses and underserved communities. We urge Congress to pass this vital package swiftly, as it represents an important step toward a more equitable and sustainable health care system.
NPRCC Joins CHLI Rountable - Strengthening US: Puerto Rico Policy: A Win for Security & Prosperity
NPRCC Founder & Board President, Dr. Justin Velez-Hagan joined Resident Commissioner and Puerto Rico Gubernatorial Candidate, Rep. Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon along with a powerhouse group for a discussion panel titled “Strengthening US: Puerto Rico Policy: A Win for Security & Prosperity” hosted by our friends at the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI.)
After decades of challenges, America’s largest territory, Puerto Rico, is finally on an upswing: restored economic growth, improved transparency, and post-disaster infrastructure rebuilding all point to a promising future. This benefits not just the island, but also the U.S. mainland by increasing interstate commerce that is already worth over $30 billion per year. Additionally, China's growing influence in the Latin America and Caribbean region underscores Puerto Rico's strategic importance for U.S. national security.
This briefing explored how reinforcing U.S.-Puerto Rico ties can boost economic prosperity and strengthen national security. Specifically, how resolving the island's political status is integral to meeting and exceeding our nation’s strategic objectives.
Latinos Play A Critical Role In Guiding The Future Policies Of The Oregon PDAB
In light of Oregon's efforts to reduce prescription drug costs through the establishment of its Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB), the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce acknowledges the potential for this initiative to positively impact vulnerable populations. However, it is essential that the voices of Latino communities, which make up a significant portion of Oregon’s population, be heard in the decision-making process. These communities often rely on community health centers for their care, making them particularly susceptible to any disruptions in medication access.
The Chamber urges the PDAB to continue engaging with patients, advocates, and healthcare providers to ensure that policies meant to lower costs do not inadvertently increase health disparities. With nearly 40% of community health center patients in Oregon identifying as Latino, the impact of these decisions could be far-reaching. It is critical that these actions support, rather than hinder, access to trusted medications and healthcare resources for our community.
We remain committed to working alongside stakeholders and the PDAB to advocate for inclusive healthcare policies that serve all Oregonians. Read more about our position in the full article here.
NPRCC announces partnership with parallel18 and the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust to support the Puerto Rico startup ecosystem.
San Juan, Puerto Rico – August 13th, 2024 - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) and parallel18, an entrepreneurship program of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust are excited to announce a strategic partnership aimed at bolstering entrepreneurship, innovation, and business expansion across Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland. This collaboration will leverage the strengths and resources of both organizations to provide comprehensive support for business development and growth.
This partnership aims to combine the NPRCC’s extensive network and advocacy capabilities with parallel18’s robust programs and resources for innovation and technology. Together, the organizations will create a dynamic ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs from the initial idea phase through to market expansion and beyond.
The key initiatives of this partnership include the following:
Business incubation and acceleration: joint programs to incubate and accelerate startups, providing entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to new markets.
Policy advocacy: coordinated efforts to advocate for policies that support the growth of businesses and the innovation ecosystem in Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland.
Resource sharing: leveraging both organizations' resources to offer educational workshops, technical support, and networking events tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs and innovators.
Community engagement: Enhancing community outreach to foster a collaborative environment where businesses can thrive and contribute to economic growth.
The partnership was launched with two recent events aimed at empowering the Puerto Rican small business community. The first event was a networking gathering at the P18 HQ in San Juan, where our Puerto Rico VP of Small Business Development, DJ Lampitt, had the opportunity to present the NPRCC's value proposition to a group of P18 Alumni. The discussion centered on how the NPRCC can assist Puerto Rican businesses in expanding to the mainland U.S.
The second event was a virtual webinar in partnership with the Louisville Metro Government and UPS titled Smart Logistics & Supply Chain Optimization in Louisville, KY. The event was focused on the economic incentives and opportunities Louisville offers small, medium, and large businesses.
This partnership marks a significant step in the commitment of both the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce and parallel18 to fostering a thriving business environment that benefits communities in Puerto Rico and beyond. For more information about this partnership, and all of the work being done at The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, visit our website at www.nprchamber.org or email info@nprchamber.org.
NPRCC Louisville Chapter Partners with Greater Louisville Chamber of Commerce
Our NPRCC Louisville Chapter put the final pieces together for a membership exchange with Greater Louisville Inc. Chamber of Commerce. GLI represents a 15-county bi-state region in Kentucky and Southern Indiana. They provide business-to-business connections, networking events, economic development, advocacy, diversity, equity and inclusion services, and talent attraction, retention, and development initiatives.
We are excited to call GLI a partner!
NPRCC Partners with Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce to grow small business ecosystem in Tampa and strengthen key strategic market for Puerto Rico-based small businesses.
Tampa, Florida - May 1st, 2024 - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is pleased to announce its partnership with the Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce (TBLC.) This collaboration aims to strengthen the small business ecosystem across Tampa, Central Florida, and Puerto Rico.
As part of their ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and development of small businesses, both chambers look to implement several key programs. To facilitate networking and professional development, NPRCC and TBLC will organize regular networking events, workshops, and seminars. These gatherings will focus on unique regional challenges and opportunities, covering topics such as cross-regional marketing strategies, import-export guidelines, and embracing digital transformation.
The partnership will also feature cultural exchange initiatives that promote business and understanding between Central Florida and Puerto Rico. These will include trade fairs showcasing local products and services, as well as cultural festivals that highlight the diverse heritage of Tampa and Puerto Rico.
Finally, both chambers will engage in joint advocacy efforts to support policies that foster a favorable business environment. This includes lobbying for small business grants, beneficial tax incentives, and regulations that enhance market accessibility.
NPRCC Central Florida Chapter President, Hector Bauza had this to say: “The NPRCC Central Florida Chapter is excited to partner with Tampa Bay Latin Chamber. It is a partnership that will benefit members of both chambers and Tampa's economy. Looking forward to the growth of this partnership.”
TBLC President, Danielle Hernandez, Esq. shared her thoughts on the partnership: "The Tampa Bay Latin Chamber of Commerce is excited to formally partner with The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce through this MOU to continue to support Latin-owned businesses in the greater Tampa Bay area. We look forward to growing this partnership to enhance the benefits of Chamber members on both sides."
The NPRCC and TBLC are dedicated to creating a dynamic and supportive environment that will benefit not only their respective members but also the broader Tampa and Puerto Rican small business communities.
NPRCC Partners with Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida to grow small business ecosystem and strengthen key strategic market for Puerto Rico-based small businesses.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce - Central Florida Chapter officially established a partnership with our friends at the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of CFL. This partnership will enable both organizations to further develop the small business ecosystem in Central Florida and grow a crucial strategic market for Puerto Rican businesses looking to expand into the US.
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NPRCC Partners with Lendreams (COFECC) to bolster both organization’s commitment to economic development and community revitalization.
Pictured from left to right: Giovanna Piovanetti, Executive President of Lendreams (COFECC), Paul Vilaro, Esq., Chairman of the Board Lendreams (COFECC), DJ Lampitt, NPRCC VP of Puerto Rico Small Business Development, Coral Cotto Negrón, NPRCC San Juan Advisory Board.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is excited to embark on a new partnership with San Juan-based Lendreams (COFECC). This collaborative effort aims to bolster both organization’s commitment to economic development and community revitalization.
By focusing on the creation and preservation of sustainable jobs, promoting self-employment, and providing education on credit and business, our joint initiative seeks to empower small and medium-sized businesses through either establishment or expansion.
Additionally, this alliance aspires to extend Lendreams' impactful work beyond Puerto Rico, with an emphasis on expanding their presence in the Mainland United States, starting with Florida.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Applauds Introduction of the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures Act
Washington, D.C. (February 13, 2024) – Today, the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement applauding the introduction of the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act, a bill proposing to equalize the period that small-molecule drugs and biologics are exempt from government price controls under the Inflation Reduction Act.
"The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is grateful to Reps. Greg Murphy (R-NC), Don Davis (D-NC), and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) for introducing the EPIC Act.
"We remain worried about the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act's price controls. In Puerto Rico, the bioscience industry indirectly or directly supports close to 80,000 jobs, many of which are in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Price controls will inevitably reduce the number of drugs developed, so will inevitably reduce manufacturing demand. This is especially worrisome for the Puerto Rican business community.
"But we're thrilled that Congress is working to fix the law's 'small-molecule penalty.' It made no sense for lawmakers to subject small-molecule medicines to price controls sooner than biologics. By exempting both classes of medicine from price controls for 13 years, the EPIC Act will ensure that science – not politicians – drives investment decisions for life-science researchers. The NPRCC urges Congress to pass the EPIC Act."
About the Chamber
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and business growth throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland. We serve as an all-encompassing resource for incubating business ideas, capitalizing on new markets, seizing fresh opportunities, and advocating for policies that catalyze community growth.
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NPRCC Statement in Opposition to International Reference Pricing for Pharmaceuticals
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce firmly opposes international reference pricing for pharmaceuticals. Our opposition is rooted in two key concerns: First, this approach can significantly delay patient access to new and innovative medicines. Second, it threatens to stifle the pharmaceutical industry's research and development, potentially leading to a decrease in the discovery of groundbreaking new treatments, while further impeding an industry vital to Puerto Rico's economy. These factors highlight the inherent risks of adopting a pricing strategy that might ultimately hinder both patient care and pharmaceutical innovation.
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce supports U.S. Chamber of Commerce in support of "Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act"
The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce proudly stands with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in endorsing the 'Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act.' This bipartisan initiative is not only a testament to collaborative governance but also a crucial step in ensuring that lower-income Americans, including many in our community, maintain access to vital internet services. As a program that has significantly benefited seniors, veterans, and diverse urban and rural communities, its extension is imperative for continued participation in our digital economy. We urge the Senate to swiftly pass this bill, reinforcing our commitment to universal connectivity and economic empowerment.