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.

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.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Supports Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is honored to support Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) as they introduce the bipartisan Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act, and we proudly stand in support of this meaningful endeavor.

Roberto Clemente, an iconic figure in Major League Baseball, transcended the boundaries of sports to become a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals, particularly within Puerto Rico and the broader Latino community. His legacy extends far beyond his prowess in right field; he was a humanitarian, a champion of civil rights, and a source of immense pride.

This act seeks to honor and immortalize Roberto Clemente's profound impact on our society.

Here's why it matters:

  • Recognizing a Legend: The Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act aims to create a commemorative coin that pays tribute to Roberto Clemente. This coin serves as a symbol of his enduring legacy, reminding us of his extraordinary achievements on and off the baseball field.

  • A Model Player and Advocate: Clemente was not only a stellar athlete but also an unwavering advocate for civil rights and minority communities. He used his platform to bring attention to important social issues and championed the causes he believed in.

  • Bipartisan Support: This initiative has garnered bipartisan support, underscoring its significance. Representatives Espaillat and González-Colón's collaboration highlights the universal respect and admiration for Roberto Clemente's contributions.

  • Endorsements: The act has received endorsements from a wide range of organizations, including FRIENDS of the National Museum of the American Latino, NALEO Educational Fund, and The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, among others. These endorsements reflect the widespread recognition of Clemente's enduring impact.

  • Inspiration for Future Generations: By creating a commemorative coin in Roberto Clemente's honor, the act aims to inspire future generations to embrace values of compassion, justice, and social responsibility. Clemente's life and work serve as a shining example of what one person can achieve when driven by a deep sense of purpose.

  • MLB Recognition: Representative Espaillat's previous resolution urging MLB to fully implement Roberto Clemente Day throughout the league underscores the importance of recognizing Clemente's contributions to the sport and society.

As supporters of the Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act, we believe that this initiative not only pays homage to a legend but also celebrates the values of compassion, justice, and unity that Roberto Clemente embodied throughout his remarkable life.

We invite you to join us in advocating for this act and honoring the enduring legacy of Roberto Clemente. Let us come together to ensure that his contributions to American society, particularly to Puerto Rican and Latino communities, are remembered and celebrated for generations to come.

Together, we can make a difference and continue to champion the causes that Roberto Clemente held dear. Stay tuned for updates, and let us work together to keep his spirit alive.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Issues Statement in Support of Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement in response to the Biden Administration’s recent proposal to increase funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a vital contributor to improving economic opportunities for Puerto Rican communities around the country:

“The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) extends its robust support to the Biden Administration's proposal for amplifying the funding allocated to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Recognizing the crucial role of digital connectivity in stimulating economic growth and nurturing community resilience, the NPRCC underscores the indispensable nature of the ACP. By offering subsidized internet services, the program has played a central role in narrowing the digital divide, enabling all businesses, including Puerto Rican-owned and operated businesses, as well as individuals and families to fully engage in the digital economy.

Recent data highlights the significant impact of the ACP on the country, with studies noting how the ACP has facilitated internet connectivity for hundreds of thousands of Puerto Rican households across the country, a critical lifeline in the digital era. This connectivity has overcome geographical barriers, allowing Puerto Ricans everywhere to pursue their educational, entrepreneurial, and professional endeavors without interruption. The subsequent enhancement in online business operations has notably invigorated local economies and expanded the scope of opportunities for our communities.

The NPRCC ardently believes that by fortifying the financial backbone of the ACP, an investment is made into a vessel that not only empowers the Puerto Rican business landscape but also enriches the socio-economic fabric of our society. We, therefore, urge Congress to heed this call for further support and promptly act to ensure the fiscal fortitude of the ACP, thereby securing an inclusive digital future for industrious Americans across the country. The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating policies that propel economic vibrancy and societal advancement in Puerto Rico.”

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Issues Statement Against CMS Price Controls List

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement in response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) unveiling its inaugural list of medicines within Medicare subject to government-mandated price controls:

“The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce steadfastly supports policies aimed at reducing and controlling the cost of prescription medications for communities nationwide. However, we contend that the government and CMS's recent decision to promulgate a list of prices set in an arbitrary manner may yield more harm than good. Such an approach could have long-lasting ramifications that stymie research and development in pharmaceuticals, thereby undermining potential life-saving innovations and the overall well-being of the American populace.”

T-Mobile Announces Latest Round of Hometown Grants

Our partners at T-Mobile have some exciting news to share!


T-Mobile is thrilled to announce the latest round of Hometown Grant recipients as part of their five-year, $25 million initiative to support small towns across America. With these 25 new recipients, T-Mobile has now distributed nearly $9 million to 200 communities, creating meaningful change throughout America's small towns.

More than 40 states have now received a Hometown Grant. In this latest round, T-Mobile will aid the Edgewood School in Goldsboro, North Carolina in developing its first-ever STEM program, which will focus on students with disabilities. They will also install free, public Wi-Fi in downtown Paxton, Illinois to provide connectivity for residents and local businesses.

With a record of over 600 applications this time around, the growing interest in Hometown Grants is a testament to the profound impact T-Mobile is making on small towns across the country.

Any American town with fewer than 50,000 people is encouraged to apply for a Hometown Grant at this link: https://lnkd.in/d4cegYB

Twenty-five new recipients will be announced quarterly through 2026.

For more information, you can read the full press release at the link below:
https://lnkd.in/ekvtdMrx

Grow with Google Launches Cybersecurity Certificate

Our friends at Google, are committed to contributing to a safer internet for all. They have long worked to protect people, businesses, and governments by sharing their expertise and advancing cybersecurity tools and resources.

To help build a more robust and diverse cyber workforce, they're excited to announce the launch of the new Google Cybersecurity Certificate! This expansion of the Google Career Certificates program will help anyone — no previous experience required — develop the skills needed to enter the fast-growing cybersecurity field.

All NPRCC Small Business Members and their employees are eligible to obtain a Google Career Certificate at no cost! To learn more contact us at info@nprchamber.org.

#GrowPR #GrowWithGoogle

NPRCC & Unlock Capital announce partnership to support Puerto Rico's Small Business Ecosystem

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce and Unlock Capital announced their partnership in support of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Puerto Rico at the Unlock Capital 2023 Cohort Kick-Off.

Unlock Capital participants will benefit from NPRCC's vast network of investors in Puerto Rico and on the mainland and complimentary NPRCC Small Business Memberships.

Future events and collaborations to come, so stay tuned. Here's to working together and building the case for investing in Puerto Rican businesses! #GrowPR

Coalition for Food Security ✦ Puerto Rico

Joint Statement by the Coalition for Food Security Puerto Rico, National Organizations and Stakeholder Groups in Support of Transitioning Puerto Rico to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Puerto Rico is home to U.S. citizens who deserve participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The 2023 Farm Bill provides the opportunity to transition Puerto Rico into SNAP and finally afford people residing in the territory parity to nutrition benefits offered in the states, Guam and USVI.

SNAP is the most critical anti-hunger program supporting nutrition, health, and economic well-being. Yet, people living in Puerto Rico were excluded from the program in 1981 and locked into a capped federal block grant known as the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP). Over the past forty years, Puerto Rico's exclusion from the program has exacerbated poverty and food insecurity for low-income families, children, the elderly, and veterans. When implemented, the transition resulted in an automatic 25% reduction in aid.

Currently, the maximum monthly benefit for people receiving NAP in Puerto Rico averages 41 percent less than SNAP in the 48 states and D.C. With inflation, food supply chain challenges, and increasing poverty, families are facing even greater hardships.

The block grant severely limits Puerto Rico's ability to respond to necessary changes. NAP has no equivalent to Disaster-SNAP, so disasters or emergencies require new and separate appropriations by Congress, which can take months. Following Hurricane Maria in September 2017, people in Puerto Rico waited six months to receive additional nutrition aid.

Since NAP is not need-based like SNAP, U.S. citizens living in Puerto Rico receive uneven benefits as enrollment levels go up or down. Given reduced funding, NAP has stricter eligibility requirements, so people have lower income levels than those in the states. People receiving NAP make hard decisions about food, nutrition, health, and housing every day. SNAP provides essential support to workers in low-income jobs as they seek employment and financial security for their families.

Nearly one in three NAP households in Puerto Rico is a person aged 60 or older, and 56% of all households are people living alone. Families with children, older adults, children, the working poor, and persons with disabilities represent 80% of all NAP households. Right now, a single-person household receives $1.83 per meal at the maximum monthly benefit, and many people receive even lower monthly benefits. 

The nutrition aid provided to Puerto Rico helps the U.S. economy with 75% of imported food purchased from the U.S. Puerto Rico's purchases greatly support U.S. manufacturing, distribution, farming, and transportation. Puerto Rico's executive and legislative branches of government are already committed and preparing for a SNAP transition.

The 2023 Farm Bill presents Congress with the opportunity to include Puerto Rico in SNAP through a systemic transition that provides equitable nutrition benefits to its residents. We ask you to support Puerto Rico’s participation in SNAP.