On August 5, 2025, the Fort Worth City Council voted to suspend all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) programs in response to new federal directives. While this decision presents challenges, it also creates an opportunity for growth, innovation, and collaboration. The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce remains committed to advocating for businesses of all sizes and backgrounds. We will continue to stand up for the interests of our members and the broader business community, within the boundaries set by these new guidelines.
Rest assured that behind the scenes, we are working diligently to ensure that your voices are heard. Together with our colleagues, we have actively advocated for policies that uplift minority-owned businesses. We remain committed to supporting your success as we navigate these changes. Our dedication to securing equitable opportunities for all members is steadfast, and we will continue to push for policies that promote a fair playing field for everyone.
The City Council has already begun the process of establishing a new small business development program that will expand contracting opportunities and provide essential resources to small businesses across Fort Worth. This initiative is a significant step forward in ensuring that businesses, particularly those that have historically faced barriers, have access to the support they need to succeed.
We are proud to say that, alongside the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, we have worked together to address these challenges. Through our collective effort, we are now focused on the following primary areas:
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Supporting Businesses of All Sizes: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. We are committed to ensuring that businesses of every size have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed.
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Inclusive Advocacy: Our focus is on ensuring that all entrepreneurs, regardless of their background or business size, have the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive. We will continue to advocate for policies that guarantee fairness and equity for all businesses.
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Spanish-Language Programs: We are committed to developing and promoting programs fully in Spanish to ensure that every member has access to Chamber resources and opportunities without barriers. Additionally, we will continue consultations with our Spanish-speaking members to ensure that these programs meet their needs and effectively support their business growth.
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Collaboration for Lasting Impact: Through our continued partnerships with the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, we are working together to create long-term, impactful solutions that will ensure Fort Worth remains a place where businesses of all sizes can succeed.
These are some of the primary areas we will focus on moving forward. However, our work doesn’t stop here. We have plans in place to continue developing and enhancing new programs and initiatives that will further support and strengthen our local business community.
As we continue these efforts, we would like your support. While we are doing everything within our power to move this initiative forward, its success will depend on our collective action. We have a clear plan, but it is only through working together that we will make it a reality. Your involvement is crucial, and we need your commitment to help us turn this vision into action.
While these times may seem uncertain, please know that you have our word at the Chamber. Our team is here to support you, to explain the changes, and to work together to navigate this new landscape. We are committed to being a steady partner in this journey, and we’ll continue to advocate for your success.
Together, we will make sure that Fort Worth’s business community remains strong, resilient, and united.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Thank you,
