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The Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (SHCCNJ) and New Jersey City University (NJCU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Oct. 21.

Leaders say the agreement will create new educational and professional opportunities for NJCU students and the Hispanic business community. Meanwhile, it will also facilitate the expansion of SHCCNJ’s Hispanic Business Hub to NJCU’s Jersey City campus.

Other key features of the collaboration include:

• Will create internship programs for students at SHCCNJ member businesses that provide real-world experience across various industries. Will also offer compensation and academic credit where applicable.
• SHCCNJ can use NJCU facilities for business activities and the development of entrepreneurship, workforce development and community engagement initiatives. SHCCNJ will have access to the facilities for hosting workshops, seminars and networking events.
• Opportunities for NJCU and SHCCNJ to research, develop and advocate for policies aimed at addressing challenges that Hispanic-owned businesses face.
• Will align programmatically in areas such as entrepreneurship, business development, financial literacy, digital skills and professional training. Includes a special focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.

A ‘mutually beneficial collaboration’

NJCU interim President Andrés Acebo said the partnership underscores the school’s commitment to fostering educational excellence, economic development and community empowerment through strategic collaborations with key partners.

“This MOU represents an exciting and mutually beneficial collaboration between NJCU and the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey,” said Acebo. “Together, we will build pathways for our students to access valuable professional experiences and internships, while also contributing to the growth and success of Hispanic-owned businesses throughout the state.

“Our partnership with NJCU is a milestone that amplifies our commitment to the Hispanic entrepreneurs we serve, from the New York tri-state area to a global marketplace,” said SHCCNJ Chairman Luis De La Hoz. “With NJCU, we gain a unique platform to elevate business and educational opportunities, creating a ripple effect of growth and success for Hispanic-owned businesses and future leaders.”

“As President of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, I am thrilled about this monumental partnership with New Jersey City University,” said Carlos Medina. “Establishing the Hispanic Business Hub @ NJCU signifies a new chapter for the Chamber and a bold step forward in expanding opportunities for the Hispanic business community and future generations of entrepreneurs. Together, we will foster innovation, create impactful educational programs, and drive economic growth that reflects the vibrant diversity of our state.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, and we look forward to the many opportunities this collaboration will create for our students and the broader business community,” said Acebo.

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