Organizations such as Houston Minority Business Council stimulate the free enterprise system by promoting a more competitive business atmosphere. Viable minority businesses expand the tax base and create jobs for everyone. The HMBC is a corporate program developed to provide minority businesses not only with access to the marketplace, but also with a clear understanding of prerequisites and business procedures that apply to all.
The Houston Minority Business Council is the certifying organization for minority-owned businesses interested in doing business with Houston's major corporations. The Council's certification is accepted by most major corporations, the City of Houston, the Houston Independent School District, State of Texas (HUB) Program and the Port of Houston Authority. HMBC is one of 38 regional affiliates of the National Minority Supplier Development Council. Through this affiliation, Houston area MBEs are included in a comprehensive, computerized database which is made available to major corporations nationwide.
Our effectiveness was recognized as a model private sector initiative by President Reagan and has earned local and national acclaim, including front page coverage in The Wall Street Journal and selection as the Council of the Year by the National Minority Supplier Development Council three times.
Benefits: HMBC provides minority firms with assistance to achieve a certain business posture so that they can compete effectively in the economic main stream.
- Certify bonafide minority firms that are 51% owned, managed and controlled by an ethnic minority who is a US citizen in order to protect against front operations.
- Provides nationwide referrals of MBEs to corporate members and other MBEs.
- Develops corporate support of minority business development initiatives.
- Distributes a list of supportive corporate contact persons.
- Improves the exposure and image of MBEs through the use of certification certificates.
- Facilitates the development of meaningful business relationships with major corporations and other MBEs through creative networking events.
- Provides the latest information on government regulations and issues facing minority businesses.
- Disseminates news about business opportunities, certified vendors of the council and activities through the Network, a monthly newsletter.
- Offers technical assistance and training in areas such as sales, marketing, bidding, packaging, quality, and financial management.
- Weekly fax notice of bid opportunities.
- Free listing in MBE guide to membership services.
- Quick fax of important announcements and news.
- Included in NMSDC's MBE national referral database.
- Executive Business Scholarships for continuing education.
- Direct, face-to-face contact with corporate decision makers.
- Discounts on legal, accounting and other professional services.
- Seminars and workshops to keep you informed of current business trends.
- Access to the Business Consortium Fund, working capital program.
- Host EXPO-Texas' largest minority business opportunity marketplace.
- Free listing on the HMBC internet website with direct link to your home page.