WHERE BUSINESS MOVES FORWARD Above: The Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando team at their Business Wellness Day presented by Orlando Health.
EMPOWERING PEOPLE, DRIVING PROGRESS.
As Central Florida’s Hispanic business landscape continues to evolve, Pedro Turushina, President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, shares how the Hispanic Chamber remains grounded in community while reaching for new milestones in growth and impact.
INTERVIEW WITH PEDRO TURUSHINA, PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE HISPANIC CHAMBER OF METRO ORLANDO
Central Florida is one of the fastest-growing Hispanic regions in the country. How is that shaping the economic and cultural future of Orlando?
Nationally, the Hispanic Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceed $3.2 trillion, which would make the Hispanic community the fifth-largest economy in the world if considered independently. Here in Florida, for example, we are home to more than 600,000 Hispanic owned businesses that create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute to economic growth in key sectors such as logistics, construction, technology, wellness, and legal services, among others.
The Chamber continues to elevate this narrative to ensure that Hispanic contributions are recognized, valued and included in economic development strategies at all levels.
What role does the Chamber play in connecting Hispanic professionals and small business owners with Central Florida’s broader economic ecosystem?
The Hispanic Chamber serves as a dynamic bridge connecting professionals, small business owners, and corporate partners with Central Florida’s wider economic landscape. By fostering strategic alliances with local and state agencies, major economic opportunities, and community organizations, the Chamber expands access to business opportunities, contracts, and resources.
Through targeted programs and events focused on commerce, professional development, and community engagement, it equips entrepreneurs with the tools and networks they need to thrive and position them as key contributors to the region’s economic vitality.
Additionally, by collaborating with national partners, the Chamber ensures that Central Florida’s Hispanic businesses have a strong voice and presence in the broader economic ecosystem.
What are some local success stories that illustrate the power of community collaboration through the Chamber?
One standout example of the Hispanic Chamber’s impact through community and cross collaboration is our Commercial Executive Mission Trips.
During our mission trip to Puerto Rico three years ago, we met with business leaders interested in expanding to Central Florida. One key meeting result. SIM Health is a respected healthcare system founded in Puerto Rico sharing their vision of bringing their trusted, community-based care model to our Central Florida region.
SIM Health connected with government leaders and other members of our delegation helping them move forward with their expansion plans, including hiring one of our own members, a Chamber trustee, SkyBuilders, as the General Contractor for their new clinic in Orlando.
Another example of the Chamber’s advocacy efforts is its support for the launch of Iberia Airlines direct flight from Orlando International
Airport to Madrid.
These are powerful examples of how our programs foster economic development and support small business growth across regions.
• These collaborations help small businesses explore new markets, build international partnerships and stay competitive in a global economy
• It’s not just about expanding reach, it’s about exchanging ideas, learning from others, and sparking innovation.
Tell us about a recent Chamber initiative that you believe is truly moving the needle for Hispanic businesses in Orlando.
I will summarize one great initiative in “Join the Movement”, our revamped member benefits program designed to provide access to business resources available 24/7, exclusive networking opportunities, business development resources, and high-level visibility, all in one place. This initiative serves as a reminder to both our members and the broader community that we are more than just an organization. We are a movement and a business family connecting people, and platforms that help drive meaningful business growth.
Are there upcoming events or programs that Orlando Magazine readers should have on their radar?
El Osceola Stars Awards, which celebrates outstanding Central Florida and Osceola region Hispanic business leaders, is one of our signature events. We proudly organize this event in partnership with El Osceola Star Newspaper, and this year will take place on October 1st.
Another signature event is the 28th Don Quijote Awards, happening on December 13 at Epcot’s World Showplace Pavilion. This celebration recognizes Hispanic excellence in Central Florida and is hosted in collaboration with our sister organization, Prospera. During the gala, we honor outstanding businesses and professionals who demonstrate leadership and a deep commitment to strengthening our business community. In addition to the awards, the evening fosters networking, connection and a collective celebration of perseverance and community impact.
Don’t miss out on any of our upcoming events! Visit www.hispanicchamber.com for the latest updates, event details, and sponsorship opportunities
How are you preparing young Hispanic professionals and entrepreneurs to lead the next generation of business in Central Florida?
One impactful example is the Hispanic Young Entrepreneur Leadership Academy, an 8- to -10 session, cohort-based program designed to equip aspiring Hispanic entrepreneurs and leaders, ages 18-25, with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to launch and grow their own businesses. Offered in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund.
The program features engaging presentations by influential leaders from the Hispanic Chamber and the local business community. Participants gain practical insights, leadership training, and hands-on guidance throughout the academy.
At the conclusion of the program, cohort members have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel of industry leaders—offering them a real-world experience that builds confidence and opens doors to future opportunities.
And of course, many of our programs and events are designed to support and empower young Hispanic professionals and entrepreneurs as they build their network, grow their skills, and shape the future of business in our region.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
What It Means to be Part of The Hispanic Chamber Family
MEMBERSHIP THAT WORKS FOR YOU
Explore membership levels, get instant access, and join a thriving network of leaders. Be part of the movement that’s changing the game for Hispanic entrepreneurs in Central Florida. Where connections create contracts, and the community creates growth.
THE LAUNCHPAD: Ideal for solopreneurs, first-time business owners, and startups laying their foundation. This membership gets you plugged into essential resources, workshops, and connections to stabilize and grow your business
THE GROWTH BUILDER: Perfect for growing businesses—brick-and-mortar stores, restaurant owners, or anyone ready to boost visibility and credibility in the marketplace
THE MARKET DOMINATOR: Built for established leaders ready to scale, lead, and dominate their industry.