The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is preparing for one of the largest business networking events in the city this April, bringing together entrepreneurs, executives, community leaders and young professionals from across Houston.
In an exclusive interview with Que Onda Magazine, President and CEO Laura Murillo shared details about the highly anticipated luncheon and expo, as well as other initiatives designed to strengthen economic opportunities for the community.
Annual Luncheon and Expo: One of Houston’s Largest Business Events
The annual luncheon and expo will take place Friday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hilton Americas-Houston and will feature a wide range of industries, including health care, engineering, law, restaurants, finance and technology.
Murillo explained the importance of the event’s multicultural reach:
“When you arrive, it’s impressive to see how many exhibitors are there. Everything from security to doctors, engineers, lawyers and restaurants — a little bit of everything. People are exchanging business cards, looking for jobs and searching for opportunities to connect.”
In addition to the exhibition area, attendees will participate in a keynote conference featuring high-profile speakers. Past speakers have included George W. Bush and Tillman Fertitta, although the chamber typically keeps the keynote speaker’s identity secret until the event.
“What’s beautiful is that people, even if they don’t know who the speaker will be, go there to help each other — whether they are Latino or not. It’s important to hear those stories because they are inspiring and people can learn from them.”
The Importance of Networking for Growth
Murillo emphasized that active participation is essential for business growth, comparing involvement in the chamber to going to the gym:
“The chamber is like a gym. You have to participate, you have to sweat, you have to move, because business will not come to your door. You have to go out and look for that opportunity.”
The event is open to both business owners and professionals who work in companies or corporations and want to build strategic partnerships.
Programs and Events Throughout the Year
In addition to the April expo, the chamber offers several initiatives aimed at professional and business development.
Leadership Summit and Expo
An event focused on professional growth, where experts share strategies on leadership and business success.
“We have people who have been very successful join us, share their stories, and we also have an expo with people selling, buying and making connections.”
Date: Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
State of Hispanics: Data Summit
A conference that provides economic information and data about Houston’s Hispanic market, including housing, consumer trends, taxes and business opportunities.
“It’s data about Houston — where to move, what the opportunities are and how to reach the Hispanic community.”
Date: Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Emerging Leaders Program
Designed for young professionals under 40, connecting them with mentors from different industries.
“We have leaders who help them — architects, doctors, lawyers — so they can aim high and be in front of people who faced challenges but reached another level.”
Date: Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 (applications open in May)
Virtual Workshops and Online Resources
Since the pandemic, the chamber has expanded its digital resources with virtual workshops on topics such as:
- How to start a business
- Access to financing
- Retirement planning
- Marketing strategies
Many of these resources are available in both English and Spanish, even for non-members.
“There are many resources the chamber offers, even if someone is not a member or never leaves their house, because there is so much available online.”
The Economic Power of the Latino Community
Murillo emphasized that Latino-owned businesses represent a vital economic force not only for the Hispanic community but for the entire region.
“The Latino market is important for everyone, and understanding it is a very important skill.”
The chamber also collaborates with nonprofit organizations to promote volunteer opportunities and community engagement.
For more information about events, memberships and programs, visit HoustonHispanicChamber.com or follow the organization on social media.