Governor Brownback Hosts First Annual Kansas Hispanic Business Forum

Dodge City– More than 100 Kansas business owners from across the state joined Governor Sam Brownback today at the first annual Kansas Hispanic Business Forum in Dodge City.

“In our efforts to grow the Kansas economy and create jobs, we must look to small business as a key driver, and Hispanic-owned businesses are a vital part of that effort. Our administration wants to partner with the Hispanic community and small businesses to help them be more successful,” Gov. Brownback said.

Forum speakers Roise Rodriquez-Swick, owner of Illusions Hair Salon in Garden City, and Omar Lopez, owner of El Mexicano Auto in Dodge City, shared their experiences as business owners. The Governor then led a group discussion where the topics included immigration, education and job training.

“Today’s forum highlighted the potential of the Hispanic business community,” Commerce Secretary Pat George said. “The administration is eager to work with this diverse community to empower it and move it forward.”

Prior to the forum, attendees attended workshops focused on marketing, branding, utilizing information technology and banking and finance. Several state agencies, including Commerce, Revenue, and KDHE as well as the USDA and Dodge City Community College had resource booths set up at the forum.

“We appreciate the Hispanic community’s participation in today’s forum. A lot good information was shared. We are excited to begin planning next year’s forum,” KHLAAC Executive Director Adrienne Foster said.

The Kansas Hispanic & Latino American Affairs Commission (KHLAAC) and the Southwest Kansas Chambers of Commerce sponsored the forum.