About - Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was created when a small group of minority business and community members recognized the need for effective representation in the local business community. The organization was chartered August 3, 1973, as only the fourth Mexican-American Chamber of Commerce to be established in the State of Texas. Among the founding members of the chamber were Dick Salinas, who served as its first president; Pete Zepeda, president-elect; Ron Fernandez, vice president; and Manuel Jara, treasurer.

The first chamber office was located downtown in the Sinclair Building and the first meetings were held at various area restaurants. However, by 1982 interest in the organization grew enough to support a full suite of offices in the historic Stockyards section of the city. The Articles of Incorporation were amended November 25, 1985 and the name was changed to the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Since our founding, the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has grown from the initial 30 members to hundreds of businesses and professional leaders.
Today the FWHCC is a dynamic force, promoting international trade, education, opportunity and economic mobility for all and the continuous development of its members. The chamber particularly strives to serve its members through business and professional seminars, workshops, networking opportunities and business procurement assistance through its Economic Development Programs.
The chamber also works to give back to our community through the FWHCC Scholarship fund created in 1991. Since then, it has provided over a million dollars in scholarship awards.

The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve the business interests of the Metroplex community and will strive to seek opportunity for its membership and achieve economic benefit for all.

Section

MEET OUR PRESIDENT and CEO

Ericka Garza

Ericka Garza brings a wealth of experience in franchising, business development, and economic growth to her role as President & CEO of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. A passionate advocate for Latino entrepreneurship, she has dedicated her career to creating opportunities, fostering success, and driving community impact.

Before joining FWHCC, Garza served as President of Au Bon Pain, leading the brand’s strategic expansion. She has also held leadership roles at YUM! Brands, Boston Pizza International, and 7-Eleven, Inc., where she played a key role in business strategy and franchise development. A sought-after keynote speaker and mentor, she has championed diversity in franchising and helped equip Hispanic entrepreneurs with the tools to thrive.

Recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Latinas in the U.S. by Latino Leaders Magazine, Garza is a Cornell University graduate with executive finance training from Harvard University. Beyond her professional achievements, she is committed to philanthropy, mentorship, and building a stronger future for the Hispanic business community.