Deadline extended to August 31 for Hispanic Entrepreneur of the Year nominations

The Michigan Commission on Spanish-Speaking Affairs (COSSA) in the Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) has extended its deadline to Thursday, August 31 for accepting nominations for the 2006 Hispanic Entrepreneur of the Year Award. The recipient will be honored at the Hispanic Business Expo Dinner Reception on September 6 at Renaissance Center in Detroit.

“We are eager to honor one of many deserving Hispanics that are driving success in business and are seeking nominations of persons that exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of our community for our inaugural award,” said COSSA Chairman José L.R. Reyna.

“The number of Hispanic entrepreneurs in Michigan and their achievements has risen significantly in recent years and we look forward to recognizing the positive impact they have had on Michigan’s economy.”

The nominating criteria are:

• The individual must demonstrate appreciable economic growth to the Latino business and civic community as a result of his or her efforts.
• The individual’s business must be viable with a track record of success that can serve as a role model for other Latino entrepreneurs.
• The individual must demonstrate a history of civic engagement and contribution to the quality of life for Latinos through community service.

“One of the keys to strengthening Michigan’s economy is encouraging small business start-ups,” said DLEG Director Robert W. Swanson. “Small business owners are the ones who do most of the hiring in our state, and I believe it is only fitting that we recognize and honor those who can inspire others to succeed in business.”

Nominations for the award must be postmarked no later than August 31, 2006; a copy of the nominating form may accessed online at www.michigan.gov/cossa or may be requested from the Vicky Potter at the COSSA Office at (517) 373-8339.

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