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.

Foundation for Puerto Rico Partners with The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce to Reach Diaspora

Looking to pursue a socioeconomic transformation for the island, Foundation for Puerto Rico (FPR) has established a collaboration agreement with The National Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) to promote relationships among Puerto Rican entrepreneurs in the mainland U.S., Puerto Rico-based business owners and communities on the island.

“Puerto Rico is much more than 100 x 35. In 2018, the Puerto Rican population in the United States reached 5.8 million according to the federal Census Bureau,” said Alan Taveras, Director of Development and Marketing at FPR.

“Through this collaboration, both entities serve as a bridge between the diaspora and Puerto Ricans on the island,” Taveras. “We believe that the entrepreneurial community of Puerto Ricans residing in the states is crucial to the economic development of the island and the growth of its businesses.”

As part of the collaboration agreement, FPR will supply NPRCC with educational content and resources to enrich the organization’s website, enabling more vendors and business owners to access free workshops and training sessions that cover subjects such as innovation, visitor economy, the benefits of doing business on the island, resilience and sustainability.

Additionally, both organizations will encourage joint participation in debates, forums, and discussion panels focused on the subject of Puerto Rico’s economic development.

“There’s a saying that goes, ‘Somos Uno Solo Pueblo,’ that refers to the relationship between Puerto Rico and the diaspora. This association between NPRCC and FPR puts this saying into action,” said Joel Berrocal, Executive Director of the NPRCC.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce & The Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association partner to promote Web3, Blockchain, & Act 60 literacy in Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico - February 6th, 2023  - In an effort to educate its members about Web 3, Blockchain Technology, Crypto Currencies, and Act 60 Tax Incentives, The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC), is announcing a collaborative agreement with The Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association (PRBTA) to jointly promote literacy on the island and mainland US as well as create networking opportunities while supporting each other’s projects and initiatives.

“In the last eighteen months, our educational and community outreach program has held over 70+ meetups and webinars for over 3,000+ individuals. We are also doing workshops on Ley 60 to encourage the diaspora to return to Puerto Rico,” said Keiko Yoshino, Executive Director for the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association. “Through this joint effort, we hope to continue in our mission to educate and help NPRCC stay knowledgeable about emerging technologies and tax incentives for their businesses” she added.

NPRCC Executive Director, Joel Berrocal had this to say: “At the NPRCC, we strive to provide our members with the best educational resources available.  One of our main focuses is to leverage our partners to provide our members with valuable educational resources and networking opportunities.  With that being said, we are thrilled to announce the collaboration with PRBTA and the educational and networking opportunities it will bring to our members.  This alliance will provide our members with the opportunity to stay ahead of the curve as it pertains to things like the Act 60 Tax Incentives along with Web3/Blockchain technologies. 

To learn more about The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce visit our website www.nprchamber.org/

To learn more about The Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association and its CryptoCurious initiatives, visit www.prblockchain.org or their social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce

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.

The Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association

The Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association exists to connect blockchain entrepreneurs to

communities and peers contributing to make positive changes in Puerto Rico while representing

members’ interests on and off the island. For more information, visit www.prblockchain.org.

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The Facts on Verizon's Broadband Deployment

Our friends at Verizon continue to make progress in closing the digital divide. Below is a recent article they shared, which discusses the details of their work.

Verizon understands the urgency of the need to close the digital divide and solve the underlying reasons why some people are not connected. The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is proud to support Verizon to address the issues of broadband adoption

American Edge Project Launches 2023 Toolkit

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the 118th session of Congress convenes, the American Edge Project (AEP), a coalition of nearly two dozen domestic organizations, today released a new toolkit outlining the importance of supporting and strengthening American technological innovation and why lawmakers must look to smart policy solutions that strengthen America’s ability to compete on the global stage.

“American technology and innovation aren’t just components of our economy; they are the very backbone of our national security, economic prosperity, small business success, and advancement of our democratic values,” said Doug Kelly, CEO of American Edge. “U.S. competitiveness and exceptionalism depend on our ability to strengthen our domestic technological leadership. Misguided policies that weaken America’s tech innovators undermine the foundation that has propelled the United States to be a global tech leader. The stakes are too high for Congress to get this wrong.”

The toolkit highlights how domestic technology and innovation have protected Americans, helped spread democratic values, and strengthened the U.S. economy and small businesses. It outlines the importance of maintaining America’s edge and how U.S. leadership in this critical space is no longer guaranteed, especially as competition from foreign adversaries, namely China, continues to grow.

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About the American Edge Project

The American Edge Project is a coalition of domestic organizations representing a cross-section of U.S. innovators who are dedicated to telling the story about technology’s positive influence on America’s economy and the vital role innovation plays in our society. Former New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez, former U.S. Representative Chris Carney, and former Federal Election Commission Chairman Bradley A. Smith are directors of the American Edge Project. AEP’s National Security Advisory Board is comprised of Former White House Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Advisor Frances Townsend; retired four-star General Joseph F. Dunford Jr., United States Marine Corps (USMC), who served as former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and former Acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Michael J. Morell. Former U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) and Kent Conrad (D-ND) serve as Co-Chairs of the Project’s Economic Advisory Board. Former U.S. Representative Greg Walden (R-OR) serves as the Chair of the Project’s Open & Accessible Internet Advisory Board. Visit AmericanEdgeProject.org for more information.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce partners with Google to offer Members and their Employees Google Career Certificates

WASHINGTON D.C. - January 5th, 2023 - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is partnering with Google to offer their Small Business Members and Member employees Career Certificates in Data Analytics, IT Support, and Project Management at no cost, announced NPRCC National Director of Operations, Joel Berrocal.

Since 2018, Google.org has provided more than $60 million in funding for nonprofit organizations to provide digital skills and wraparound support to learners from underserved communities to complete the Google Career Certificates. No prior experience is needed for NPRCC Small Business Members or their employees to take Google’s online certification programs, which aim to prepare individuals for entry-level roles in fields that are projected to grow over the next 10 years. They are created and taught by Google employees. As stackable credentials, the certificates can be credited toward a four-year degree at select colleges and universities, and are available in 100 community colleges in the U.S. Graduates can also submit their resumes to an employer consortium of over 150 companies.

“The NPRCC feels cultivating a more skilled, diverse workforce is of the utmost importance. We believe these are important, transformative courses that allow our Small Business Members and their employees to have hands-on, applied skills, which are very much needed in today’s competitive workforce. We’re very grateful to Google for allowing us to be one of the first Hispanic organizations in the country to have this partnership and bring such a valuable opportunity to the Puerto Rican community in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. There’s lots of excitement and anticipation. We think it’s going to be of very high interest to our Members and their teams,” Berrocal said.

For additional information about the Google Career Certificates Program, visit our website at nprchamber.org or email us at info@nprchamber.org.

NPRCC Announces New Louisville Chapter, Name Ricardo Santiago Chapter President.

 

Louisville Chapter President, Ricardo Santiago

 

Louisville, Kentucky - December 21st, 2022 - We are delighted to announce the launch of The Louisville Chapter of The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC). Our goal is to provide support and resources to the vibrant Hispanic small-business community of Louisville, Kentucky. We strongly believe that this chapter will be instrumental in fostering a strong and prosperous small business ecosystem in the city, ultimately leading to a brighter future for Louisville. We invite all members of the community to join us in our mission of creating a thriving and successful environment for local businesses.

Ricardo Santiago, Digital Inclusion Manager with the Louisville Metro Government and current NPRCC Louisville Ambassador, has been appointed as the new Louisville Chapter President. In response to this new role, Ricardo had this to say: "Louisville is a growing Latin community and Puerto Ricans are a big part of that growth. According to the US Census, Louisville is home to about 6,500 Boricuas. We have identified over 30 entrepreneurs in our community and it is my wish that in NPRCC they find the resources, education, and support that they need to thrive in Louisville. I also hope that entrepreneurs from other cities look at what we can do and be inspired to work with Louisville entrepreneurs. Louisville is a welcoming city and its open for Puerto Rican businesses"

In addition to his role as The Louisville Chapter President, Ricardo will also be taking on the responsibility of NPRCC Senior Digital Inclusion Advisor. This position will involve supporting the organization's efforts in promoting Digital Equity and ensuring that all individuals have access to the same digital resources and opportunities. Ricardo's experience and knowledge in this field will be an invaluable asset to the organization.

NPRCC Joins Coalition Encouraging Department of Labor Review of “Shared Savings Fees” Under Employee-Sponsored Health Plans.

Washington D.C. - December 15th, 2022 - The overall cost of healthcare continues to cripple America's businesses and employees, this is why The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) was supportive when Congress passed the "No Surprises Act" to establish new federal protections for patients against surprise medical bills.

Unfortunately for Americans whom it claimed to benefit, however, the law has yet to be implemented in a way to protect patients and businesses alike from continued unnecessary insurance costs. It seems some insurance companies are using "shared savings fees" to their benefit to drive up costs for employers and employees.

The NPRCC joined other Chamber of Commerce on a coalition letter that encourages the Department of Labor (DOJ) to review these so-called “shared savings fees" under employer-sponsored health plans to better understand their propriety and impact on millions of Americans.

There is an opportunity to use the "No Surprises Act" for what it was intended for - to lower or remove fees for Americans and increase transparency in health plans.

Verizon continues to help advance digital equity across Hispanic small businesses

Through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, Hispanic-owned small businesses can leverage Spanish language resources as well as apply to receive grant funding.

NEW YORK, Dec. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, a free online curriculum focused on helping small businesses with digital transformation, Hispanic-owned small businesses will be able to access Spanish language course offerings, coaching from experts, community events and personalized mentorship, as well as apply to receive a $10,000 grant as part of a $250,000 fund to help further support minority small businesses. In partnership with Next Street and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Verizon Small Business Digital Ready was created with and for small businesses, with a specific focus on helping diverse and under-resourced business owners.

“At the core of our commitment to small business is a focus on historically underrepresented entrepreneurs,” said Rose Stuckey Kirk, Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer at Verizon. “As the number of our Digital Ready users that identify as Hispanic continues to grow, the tools and resources we’re providing will play a pivotal role in supporting the digital transformation of their businesses and the communities they serve.”

“LISC is committed to the recovery and growth of all small businesses,” said Denise Scott, President of LISC. “The launch of Spanish language content on Verizon Small Business Digital Ready will provide Hispanic entrepreneurs with important skills and resources. It will also connect our partners working with small businesses across the country with a digital tool that better meets the needs of their Spanish-speaking clients.”

To be eligible for the grant, qualified applicants must be a 51 percent Hispanic-owned small business and complete, in any combination, at least two courses, coaching events, or community events between July 1, 2022, and the application deadline of January 13, 2023. All applicants will be notified if they have been selected for grant funding the week of January 30, 2023.

Verizon is also offering new and existing Business Internet customers special discounts. Now through December 9, 2022, qualifying customers can save $30/month for 2 years on select new LTE Business Internet plans and get up to $200 off new self-install 5G Business Internet plans.

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, part of Verizon’s responsible business plan, Citizen Verizon, has a goal to support 1M small businesses with the resources to thrive in the digital economy by 2030. To learn more about Verizon’s continued efforts to help bridge the digital divide, through Citizen Verizon, visit CitizenVerizon.com.         

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $133.6 billion in 2021. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

Apagón Launches Funding Campaign to Expand Its Apps Offerings and Empower Customers

SAN JUAN, PR October 24, 2022 – In response to power outages after Category 1 Hurricane Fiona plunged the archipelago into darkness, Puerto Rican non-profit Apagón launched a funding campaign on Patreon to expand its app’s offerings and empower the consumer, allowing users to report, track and challenge their electric consumption.

Once Fiona hit the island and the recently privatized power company, LUMA, removed outage data from its website, downloads of the Apagón app, available on iOS and Android devices, spiked by 21,000%.

“Ever since the power distribution and transmission were taken from the public utility and awarded to a private company, transparency, honesty, and accuracy have been lacking for subscribers who demand accountability,” Héctor Tarrido-Picart, Apagon Founder and Developer, said.

“Additionally, LUMA only provides estimates of your power usage, not an actual number, and refuses to check consumers' power meters for accuracy. Apagón is here to fix that,” he said.

With Apagón, consumers can report when their power is out and generate an easy-to-read bill of their monthly energy consumption. With this information, consumers can contest their accounts and demand an accurate reading of their bills, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually.

Apagon’s development team is 100% volunteer-driven. It needs this funding to scale its app’s capabilities and server use and provide Puerto Ricans with desperately needed service.

About Apagón LLC

Apagón LLC is a non-profit organization founded and developed by Boricuas living in Puerto Rico and the Diaspora. The Apagón App is a free tool that was created after Hurricanes Irma and María in 2018 to help the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) locate power outages.

Media Contact

David Binkowski, Large Media

(787) 932-3898

david@largemedia.com

Puerto Rico's App selected to Showcase New Tech for Local Work at Web Summit 2022

[San Juan, Puerto Rico] The app-based startup for local on-demand jobs Hallo Helper, gets one of the coveted Startup Showcase spots at Web Summit 2022 in Lisboa, Portugal. This year’s hosts companies from 92 countries all over the world. 192 are coming from different states in the US, and representing the US Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is Hallo Helper. The 2022 Web Summit is quickly becoming the tech summit leader allowing global startups to meet, compete, and showcase their tech innovations for the world to see. The summit attendees include media magnates from Inc., Fast Company, Techcrunch, to Vogue Italia.  


The startup launched its apps in 2021 and has recently released a local worker impact study showing users of their Helper App gained an estimated thirty-three percent (33%) added annual income per household when compared to the National Median reported by censusreporter.org for 2021. This impact on worker life and in the island's gig economy provided statistical proof of the on-demand platform's necessity and social impact. Allowing Hallo Helper to nab one of the Startup Showcase spots in Web Summit this coming November 1-4, 2022...

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce is proud to participate in Digital Inclusion Week 2022!

Washington D.C. (10/05/2022) - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce has been vocal in Washington, DC, and across our local markets on the issue of Digital Inclusion and the importance of getting more households and businesses connected.  Connectivity is central to participating in and benefiting from today’s digital economy. 

This week, dozens of groups are coming together nationwide to take action for Digital Equity Now! In 2022, we're turning our digital inclusion moment into a movement by working to get affordable broadband, devices, and digital skills training in the hands of everyone who needs them!

There are more people with broadband access that choose not to adopt it than there are people without broadband access altogether.  Helping communities understand the benefits that come with getting online and supporting businesses as they seek to leverage digital technologies to grow and scale their businesses is central to our Chamber’s work.

As communities get connected, continued investment by way of digital adoption will be more critical than ever.  In addition to directing federal funds towards getting broadband networks to those who do not have any access – equally important is the task of ensuring that communities with newly acquired access (or existing access) take the critical step of subscribing to broadband and becoming full digital citizens.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce thanks our friends at The National Digital Inclusion Alliance and look forward to working with the many organizations and communities on these issues and stands ready to support efforts to improve digital inclusion and equity for small businesses and the communities they serve. #DIW2022

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Releases Statement on one-year waiver request from Jones Act by Congressional Leaders

Wednesday, September 28th, 2022 - Washington D.C. - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) joins Congressional Leaders, Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi, and countless other organizations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico in support of a one-year waiver from The Jones Act for Puerto Rico. Read the full statement below:

SBA offers disaster assistance loans to Puerto Rico businesses, residents

The US Small Business Administration announced the availability of low-interest disaster loans to businesses and residents in Puerto Rico in response to the disaster declaration after Hurricane Fiona struck the island.

“SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Puerto Rico small businesses and residents impacted by this disaster in every way possible under President Biden’s disaster declaration for certain affected areas,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas-Guzmán. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

“With this declaration, we are now fully prepared to move forward to assist the people of Puerto Rico,” said Francisco Sanchez, Jr., Associate Administrator, Disaster Assistance.

“We have personnel already on the island staffing our Initial Operating Facility working diligently with our federal partners and the Commonwealth to urgently open disaster recovery centers,” he said.

The disaster declaration covers 58 municipalities, which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. 

Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in Arecibo, Barceloneta, Camuy, Guanica, Hatillo, Las Marías, Loíza, Manatí, Mayagüez, Sabana Grande, San Germán, and San Sebastián are eligible to apply only for EIDLs, the agency stated.

Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. 

Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property.

Applicants that have an existing SBA disaster loan may apply under this declaration. Businesses and residents with previous SBA disaster loans and current applicants have up to two years from the date of their prior loan approval in which to request a loan increase for mitigation projects.

“The opportunity to include measures to help prevent future damage from occurring is a significant benefit of SBA’s disaster loan program,” said SBA Associate Administrator Francisco Sanchez, Jr. “I encourage everyone to consult their contractors and emergency management mitigation specialists for ideas and apply for an SBA disaster loan increase for funding.”

Interest rates are as low as 3.04% for businesses, 1.875% for nonprofit organizations, and 2.188% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years.

Applicants may apply online, but to be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, applicants should register online or download the FEMA mobile app.

The filing deadline for physical property damage applications is Nov. 21, 2022, while applicants for economic injury aid have until June 21, 2023, to file.

NPRCC Joins Philly Latino Community Leader for Infrastructure Roundtable with US Senator Bob Casey

PHILADELPHIA - September 16th, 2022 - National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, Director of Operations, Joel Berrocal joined a group of Philadelphia Latino Community Leaders at Taller Puertorriqueño for a roundtable discussion with US Senator to Pennsylvania, Bob Casey to discuss infrastructure and workforce development Initiatives as it relates to the Latino Community in Pennsylvania and Puerto Rico.

The roundtable included representatives from The Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Unidos US, HACE, APM, and Providence Center, among others. Senator Casey and his team discussed their work on The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and their prioritization of investment in underserved communities for things like broadband access and adoption priorities.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce has been vocal in Washington, DC, and across our local markets such as Philadelphia on this issue and the importance of getting more households and businesses connected. Connectivity is central to participating in and benefiting from today’s digital economy. During the roundtable, we were able to discuss our advocacy priorities which include:

  1. Focus on unserved areas first.

    • According to 2021 data from the Federal Communications Commission, FCC, 14.5 million people still have no access to high-speed broadband, most of which are in rural areas. 

    • We support prioritizing federal funding to support broadband buildout into unserved and rural areas first. Many small businesses reside in areas that lack access to high-speed internet, which limits their ability to grow and scale.

  2. Prioritize adoption.

    • There are more people with broadband access that choose not to adopt it than there are people without broadband access altogether. 

    • Helping communities understand the benefits that come with getting online (AKA: digital adoption / see below) and supporting businesses as they seek to leverage digital technologies to grow and scale their businesses is central to our Chamber’s work.

    • *Digital Adoption

      1. As communities get connected, continued investment by way of digital adoption will be more critical than ever. 

      2. In addition to directing federal funds towards getting broadband networks to those who do not have any access – equally important is the task of ensuring that communities with newly acquired access (or existing access) take the critical step of subscribing to broadband and becoming full digital citizens.

The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with Senator Bob Casey and your staff on these issues and stands ready to support efforts to improve digital inclusion and equity for small businesses and the communities they serve. #GrowPR

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The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce Closely Monitoring Hurricane Fiona Situation in Puerto Rico

UPDATE (09/19/2022) - Washington DC - The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (NPRCC) is closely monitoring the situation in Puerto Rico. While we believe the worst of the storm has passed, the strong winds remain, and the situation is far from being over.

We are currently communicating with our network of community leaders and non-profit organizations in Puerto Rico to assess the areas of greatest need. Understandably, it will likely take weeks to comprehend the full scope of Hurricane Fiona’s damage fully.

If you know of any particular area of need or know of any relief work being done by non-profits, we want to hear from you. Please contact us at info@nprchamber.org. The NPRCC has begun to mobilize in the US Mainland. We are our vast network of members, partners, community leaders, and politicians who stand ready to support Puerto Rico’s recovery through fundraising and advocacy efforts.

We feel at this point in time the most impactful way to support our efforts is through monetary donations, while we wait to see the full scope of the situation. The NPRCC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, so your donation is 100% tax deductible. We also pride ourselves in accountability, so 100% of the funds raised will benefit the work being done in Puerto Rico by our network of trusted and vetted allies.

T‑Mobile Takes Coverage Above and Beyond With SpaceX

Starbase, TX —August 25, 2022 — In a live event today, T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS) CEO and President Mike Sievert and SpaceX Chief Engineer Elon Musk announced Coverage Above and Beyond: a breakthrough new plan to bring cell phone connectivity everywhere. Leveraging Starlink, SpaceX’s constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, and T-Mobile’s industry-leading wireless network, the Un-carrier plans to provide near complete coverage in most places in the U.S. – even in many of the most remote locations previously unreachable by traditional cell signals.

Today, despite powerful LTE and 5G wireless networks, well over half a million square miles of the U.S. in addition to vast stretches of ocean are untouched by cell signals … from ANY provider. And as anyone who has ever encountered a mobile dead zone knows, the wireless industry has struggled to cover these areas with traditional terrestrial cellular technology, most often due to land-use restrictions (e.g. National Parks), terrain limits (e.g. mountains, deserts and other topographical realities) and America’s sheer vastness. In those areas, people are either disconnected or pay exorbitant rates to lug around a sat phone. SpaceX and T-Mobile share a vision where these uncovered areas are a relic of the past, and today, the companies are taking a first step to make that vision a reality.

From the middle of Death Valley to the Great Smoky Mountains or even that persistent neighborhood dead zone, T-Mobile and SpaceX have a vision to give customers a crucial additional layer of connectivity in areas previously unreachable by cell signals from any provider. And the service aims to work with the phone already in your pocket. The vast majority of smartphones already on T-Mobile’s network will be compatible with the new service using the device’s existing radio. No extra equipment to buy. It just works.

“We’ve always thought differently about what it means to keep customers connected, and that’s why we’re working with the best to deliver coverage above and beyond anything customers have ever seen before,” said Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile. “More than just a groundbreaking alliance, this represents two industry-shaking innovators challenging the old ways of doing things to create something entirely new that will further connect customers and scare competitors.”

“The important thing about this is that it means there are no dead zones anywhere in the world for your cell phone,” said SpaceX Chief Engineer Elon Musk. “We’re incredibly excited to do this with T-Mobile.”

To provide this service, the companies will create a new network, broadcast from Starlink’s satellites using T-Mobile’s mid-band spectrum nationwide. This true satellite-to-cellular service will provide nearly complete coverage almost anywhere a customer can see the sky.

With this technology, T-Mobile is planning to give customers text coverage practically everywhere in the continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico and territorial waters, even outside the signal of T-Mobile’s network starting with a beta in select areas by the end of next year after SpaceX’s planned satellite launches. Text messaging, including SMS, MMS and participating messaging apps, will empower customers to stay connected and share experiences nearly everywhere. Afterwards, the companies plan to pursue the addition of voice and data coverage.

In addition, the CEOs shared their vision for expanding Coverage Above and Beyond globally, issuing an open invitation to the world’s carriers to collaborate for truly global connectivity. T-Mobile committed to offer reciprocal roaming to those providers working with them to enable this vision.

Today’s news is the next step in T-Mobile’s quest to deliver Coverage Beyond. Earlier this year, the Un-carrier gave customers enhanced connectivity beyond the reach of its network – in the air and abroad. Today’s move is the next step on the path to provide the ultimate coverage experience.

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The US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce lunches with UPS a Small Business Grant Program!

Our friends at the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are proud to partner with UPS on the Proudly Unstoppable Latinx-owned Small Business Grants Program for the second year in a row! We encourage you to apply for a grant before the deadline of Friday, September 16, 2022.

We have listed below the grant criteria for your reference:

  • The applicant must be a small business with less than 20 full-time employees.

  • The applicant must be a majority Hispanic-owned business with an active EIN or ITIN number.

  • The business must have been in operation for at least 9 months from the date that you complete this form.

  • The business registered main address must be located in the U.S. states or territories.

  • Typical grant amounts will be $5,000 per business that is selected.

  • If you have any technical difficulties filling out this grant application, please contact Yhanna Mckinney via email at: ymckinney@ushcc.com.

The deadline to submit your application is Friday, September 16, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

NPRCC Small Business Member, MRV Group partners with Attentive Energy Partners to Launch State-wide Survey Supporting MWBE and SDVOB Offshore Wind Supply Chain in New York

Survey to evaluate small business participation in the offshore wind industry and provide business development awards for DEIJ-owned businesses.

NEW YORK, August 23, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Attentive Energy LLC, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies Renewables USA, LLC, today announced a new collaboration with Brooklyn-based MRV Group, LLC initiating a state-wide small business survey to evaluate the challenges and business development pathways for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) owned-businesses to enter the offshore wind industry.

The survey will seek feedback from for-profit and non-profit organizations in New York and focus on procurement processes, grant applications, and DEIJ business certification, such as Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE), Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOB), Disability-Owned Business Enterprises (DOBE), LGBT-Owned Business Enterprises (LGBTBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE), Tribal Communities, and Justice-Involved Individuals. All survey participants will be eligible for a business development award that comprises networking and mentorship opportunities, including a private session with offshore wind executives.

"Effective DEIJ and local content implementation are critical to the buildout of a robust offshore wind supply chain across New York," said Attentive Energy Managing Director, Damian Bednarz. "This survey is forward thinking in its intention to identify a pathway that increases participation from social equity populations in offshore wind and serves as a resource for the entire industry. Attentive Energy is vested in listening to all populations and mobilizing action based on the insights gained from this survey."

The survey launch follows the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) release of its third offshore wind solicitation on July 27, 2022. The third solicitation seeks to secure New York’s position as the hub of offshore wind energy and gain momentum in establishing major ecosystems for workforce development, manufacturing, operations, and maintenance to support the region’s offshore wind projects and the development of a green economy. This includes an annual commitment to contract MWBEs and SDVOBs registered in New York.

"America’s clean energy transition, specifically the development of the New York Bight for offshore wind, will impact the quality of life for all New Yorkers for generations. This work is ensuring that small businesses and nonprofits don’t get left behind. This holds even truer for all underserved communities in rural, suburban, and urban markets across the state," added Managing Director and Founder of MRV Group, Glenn O. Vickers II. "This survey is a step forward in understanding the barrier to entry and provides a baseline for the offshore wind industry at large. The participation of New York businesses owned by social equity populations is a priority for New York State’s leadership to meet the state’s economic and workforce development goals."

MRV Group, a privately held diversity supplier and development firm, is managing and implementing the survey, which aims to represent New York’s 10 economic development regions including North Country, Western New York, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, Central New York, Mohawk Valley, Capital Region, Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island. Initial survey findings are expected in Q4 2022.

"Every organization can benefit from the economic and environmental benefits of the offshore wind industry. We are excited to share this opportunity with our clients and members to elevate their voices to create tangible and lasting opportunities for all New Yorkers," said Deidre Helberg, CEO of Helberg Electrical Supply (MWBE/DBE) and President/Founder of the U.S. Coalition of Black Women Businesses.

The survey can be accessed at https://www.businesssurveygrants.com or text SURVEYGRANTS at 631-519-3003. Responses are due by October 31, 2022.

About Attentive Energy

Attentive Energy LLC, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies Renewables USA, LLC, is delivering offshore wind opportunities to empower communities today and tomorrow. Attentive Energy is developing an 84,332-acre area located approximately 54 miles from its nearest point to New York and 42 miles from its nearest point to New Jersey. When completed, the project has the potential to generate 3,000 MW of clean energy to power nearly 2.2 million homes. We are guided by deep experience in the offshore sector and a forward-thinking commitment to put people first, on and off the coast. With the power of offshore wind, we will strengthen our communities, forge a new industry, and build an inclusive clean energy economy. For more information, visit www.attentiveenergy.com.

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About MRV Group

MRV Group is a privately-owned supplier diversity and development firm. MRV provides commercial and industrial product and service solutions for public-private enterprises across various industries with a focus on equitable economic development.

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Contacts

Attentive Energy Media Contact
Marie Maitre, marie.maitre@totalenergies.com