Feliz Día de la Independencia
As families and communities across the country gather to celebrate Independence Day, TAMACC reflects on the values that define our nation and strengthen our Hispanic business community: perseverance, opportunity, and unity.
Independence Day reminds us that the American story is still being written, and Hispanic entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders are shaping that story every day. From small business owners fueling local economies to advocates championing equity and representation, our community is expanding America’s promise for future generations.
As we celebrate, TAMACC remains dedicated to empowering Hispanic businesses, elevating leadership, and ensuring that our voices are heard at every level: economic, civic, and legislative. The work we do together strengthens not only our community, but the broader fabric of Texas.
We wish you and your families a safe, joyful, and meaningful Fourth of July. May today remind us of the power of unity and the limitless potential of our community. |
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Austin to Host 2026 UnidosUS Annual Conference Focused on Advocacy, Leadership, and Community Action
Thousands of Latino leaders, advocates, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and community partners are expected to gather in Austin later this month as UnidosUS hosts its 2026 Annual Conference on July 29–30 at the Fairmont Austin.
Held under the theme “Our Moment, Our Movement, Our Power,” the conference comes at a time when Latino communities across the country are confronting major issues involving immigration, voting rights, economic opportunity, and civic participation. Organizers say the event is designed to equip attendees with practical strategies, strengthen partnerships, and inspire collective action.
The conference will feature four major learning tracks:
- Immigration Justice — Sessions focused on protecting immigrant communities, advancing policy solutions, and reshaping public understanding of immigration issues.
- Defending Democracy — Workshops centered on voting rights, civic engagement, and organizing strategies to strengthen democratic participation.
- Prosperity for All — Discussions highlighting entrepreneurship, workforce development, financial mobility, and economic growth within Latino communities.
- Shifting Power — Leadership development and community organizing sessions aimed at increasing Latino representation and political influence.
The annual conference is expected to attract nonprofit executives, elected officials, business leaders, educators, students, philanthropists, and grassroots organizers from across the United States.
Several Austin-area organizations are serving as local partners, including Con Mi MADRE, Hispanic Women's Network of Texas, American YouthWorks, and Valere Public Schools, reflecting the city's strong network of organizations dedicated to expanding educational and economic opportunities for Latino families.
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The Forgotten Ally: How Spain Helped Finance America’s Fight for Independence
As Americans celebrate the nation’s independence each Fourth of July, familiar names like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and France’s Marquis de Lafayette often dominate the story of the Revolutionary War. But historians say another nation played a critical role in helping the United States win its freedom—Spain.
Unlike France, Spain never signed a formal alliance with the American colonies. Still, it quietly became one of the Revolution’s most important financial and military supporters.
In the early years of the war, Spain secretly helped fund the Continental Army by providing money, weapons, gunpowder, uniforms, and other supplies through a covert partnership with France. The assistance allowed American forces to continue fighting during some of the war’s most difficult periods. Spain’s most consequential contribution came in 1781, just before the decisive Battle of Yorktown. General George Washington and his French allies were running short of cash to pay troops and purchase essential supplies. The funding came not from Philadelphia or Paris, but from Havana, Cuba, where merchants and ordinary citizens quickly raised roughly 500,000 Spanish silver pesos. That money was delivered to the French fleet and helped finance the Yorktown campaign, which ended with the surrender of British forces under General Charles Cornwallis.
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More Than Oil: The Real Story of Midland, Texas
Midland, Texas, may be known around the world as the heart of the Permian Basin, but its story is evolving far beyond oil and gas.
In this episode of the Latino Business Report, we explore how one of the world’s most productive energy regions is diversifying its economy, attracting new investment, supporting entrepreneurs, and building the workforce needed for the future.
Our conversation examines the opportunities and challenges shaping Midland’s next chapter, the critical role of small businesses and Latino entrepreneurs in driving economic growth, and why the city is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for business expansion and innovation.
If you are interested in economic development, entrepreneurship, workforce trends, or the changing face of West Texas, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE |
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In Memoriam: Paulino “Paul” Tovar, Jr. (1939–2026)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend and longtime Hispanic Chamber of Commerce leader, Paulino “Paul” Tovar, Jr., who passed away on June 20, 2026.
Paul leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of entrepreneurship, community service, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. A native of Alice, Texas, he earned his pharmacy degree from The University of Texas at Austin in 1963 before opening Central Pharmacy in East Austin in 1966. Over the years, he expanded into medical clinics, managed care, long-term care, and other business ventures, always guided by a mission to increase healthcare access and create opportunities for underserved communities.
A respected civic and business leader, Paul served as Chair of the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in 1981, as an executive officer of TAMACC, and as the leader of Texas Certified Development Company, where he helped finance small businesses and support job creation across Texas. His leadership, generosity, and commitment to economic opportunity earned him the admiration and respect of countless colleagues and friends.
Paul is survived by his partner, Frances Prudhomme, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable accomplishments but also for his kindness, vision, and steadfast belief in lifting others. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
For more information about memorial services, please visit the family’s official obituary: Paulino Tovar Obituary - Austin, TX |
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