Hispanic Business Owners Talk Growth, Success

WICHITA, Kansas (WIBW) -- Almost 100 small business owners gathered in Wichita to discuss the growth of Hispanic businesses in the state at the Hispanic Business Forum.

Governor Sam Brownback led a panel discussion and applauded businesses for their growth.

"Kansas wants to encourage the Hispanic business community to grow in our state," Brownback said. "We've eliminated income taxes for small businesses and implemented educational initiatives to support our skilled workforce. As we continue to build a pro-growth business environment, it is important that we collaborate with Kansas Hispanic businesses to support their hard work, innovation and growth."

The Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission (KHLAAC), the Wichita Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City, Butler Community College and the Kansas Department of Commerce hosted the forum. It served as an open discussion with the Hispanic business community about economic development in Kansas, resources available to Hispanic businesses in the state and marketing a business in Kansas.

According to the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the number of Hispanic-owned businesses has doubled during the last decade. The 3.2 million businesses bring in annual revenue of $468 billion.