The Unstoppable Power of Diversity: SHCCNJ and NJCU Launch Hispanic Innovation Business Hub in Downtown Jersey City

On Feb. 19, 2025, diversity didn’t just show up in Downtown Jersey City—it took the mic and made itself heard at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Hispanic Innovation Business Hub at New Jersey City University’s School of Business. In an era of federal resistance to inclusion, the partnership between the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey and NJCU is not a request for access—it is a declaration of power.

The Hispanic Innovation Hub is more than an initiative to foster Latino entrepreneurship in partnership with higher education. It is about rewriting the rules and proving that diversity is not a liability—it is an economic force. And where better to showcase that than in New Jersey, where Hispanic GDP surpasses $100 billion?

With President Trump’s directive to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the SHCCNJ and NJCU remain steadfast in advancing progress. This historic event united prominent leaders who did more than push back against attacks on diversity—they inspired action.

Andrés Acebo, interim president of NJCU, joined Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.-10), SHCCNJ President Carlos Medina, U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-N.J.-08), Hudson County Executive Craig Guy and Hudson County Clerk E. Junior Maldonado to affirm a simple truth: diversity is not a threat—it is the engine of economic and social strength.

For too long, the Hispanic community has faced systemic barriers. Yet, through resilience and hard work, it has built businesses, strengthened industries, and led in public service. The Hispanic Innovation Business Hub is a testament to this impact at the local, state, and national levels.

Our Chairman, Luis O. De La Hoz, noted that Jersey City has breathtaking views and is a global hub of culture, business and innovation and emphasized that with the launch of the Hispanic Innovation Business Hub, SHCCNJ’s partnership with NJCU serves as a testament to our commitment to empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs and students with educational resources, skills and opportunities to “succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

Acebo delivered a speech underscoring the permanence of Hispanic contributions in America. “The Hispanic Business Innovation Model is not just a space—it is a statement. A statement that our presence here is not temporary. That our contributions to this state, this economy, and this country are not secondary. They are essential.”

This milestone sends a clear message: we will not be deterred. As Acebo stated, “We do not wait for permission to prosper.” He continued, “It is the entrepreneur who launches a business from a kitchen table—whose accent, rich with history, culture, and wisdom, needlessly invites obstacles from an intolerant world. Yet, through their work, they turn skepticism into success.”

McIver reinforced this call to action. “This is why we are here today, here in Hudson County and Jersey City—because we are celebrating our collective minds, our work, and our love of diversity. Our passion in this state is to provide critical resources that uplift our community, elevate businesses, and protect the families who rely on these opportunities.”

Our President, Carlos Medina, emphasized the resilience of Hispanic entrepreneurs. “The facts don’t change, and we will keep telling the real story of the positive impact of immigration and diversity. During COVID, while many businesses shuttered, the Hispanic business community pushed forward. We adapted. We kept opening businesses. We didn’t just survive—we thrived. That resilience is in our DNA, and it’s why we continue to succeed despite challenges.”

Congressman Menendez highlighted the necessity of collaboration. “Collaboration between engineers, students, and business leaders is more critical now than ever. We need to stand together, support each other, and push forward despite the challenges. That’s what this coalition is about lifting each other up and ensuring that our communities have the opportunities they deserve. There are those who believe we should not be here, that we should not have a seat at the table. But what we are doing today—the investments, the partnerships, the innovation hub—it all sends a message: We are here. We are building a strong future. And we are not just asking for a seat at the table—we are claiming our space and making sure the door stays open for ot

Hudson County Executive Guy reflected on the integration of Hispanic businesses in the local community. “I walk by so many businesses in my neighborhood every day, and it’s incredible to see how deeply they are woven into the fabric of our community. NJCU has always had a strong connection with the people of Jersey City, and this new partnership with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce only strengthens that bond.”

Hudson County Clerk Maldonado linked the event’s significance to cultural icons of resilience. “As I stand here today, I see the picture of Celia Cruz, and it reminds me of something powerful. Celia was more than a singer—she was a symbol of resilience, of joy, of pushing forward no matter the obstacles. Her music, her presence, her legacy remind us that no matter the challenges, we move forward with strength and passion. And that is exactly what this chamber represents—perseverance, excellence, and an unwavering belief in the future we are building together.”

The Hispanic Innovation Business Hub at NJCU is an investment in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. As Acebo said, “Hudson County is not just diverse; it is the embodiment of the American Dream. And let me be clear—the American Dream is not a sprint. It’s not a marathon. It’s a relay race. In our community, we understand that each generation runs their leg—jumping over hurdles, pushing forward, carrying the weight of the past and the promise of the future. They run not just for themselves, but for those who will follow.”

With the Hispanic Innovation Business Hub now a reality, the message is clear: progress cannot be reversed, success cannot be dictated, and the future belongs to those who build it. This is not just a space—it is a movement, and its momentum is unstoppable.

by Giovanna Aguilar, SHCCNJ Director of Communications

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