High School Students From Illinois and Texas to Participate in United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation National BizFest Competition in Los Angeles

- Top three winners to receive college scholarships -

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) Foundation announced today that 12 high school students from McAllen, Texas and Chicago, Illinois have been selected to participate in the National BizFest Youth Entrepreneurship Competition at the USHCC 33^rd Annual National Convention in Los Angeles, California from September 16 – 18, 2012. 

BizFest is an innovative and intensive entrepreneurial training program, sponsored by Bank of America, which teaches Hispanic high school juniors and seniors how to turn their hobbies into profitable business ventures. The twelve students headed to Los Angeles represent the top contestants from the 2012 regional BizFest competitions that took place across the country, earning the highest ranks for categories such as 'Most Innovative,' 'Most Entrepreneurial' and 'Business with the Most Potential'.

"Since 2001, almost 1000 students have participated in BizFest and many are now at top ranked universities like Georgetown and Columbia. The USHCC Foundation is committed to providing educational initiatives like BizFest to students across the country because we believe they are the next generation of business leaders in America," said Javier Palomarez, President and CEO of the USHCC. "But we cannot do it alone and we are thankful to our presenting sponsor, Bank of America for embracing this program and investing the time and resources to make it a resounding success."

During the competition, expert trainers from the University of Texas – Pan American (UTPA) will teach students various business techniques including how to network in business environments, how to deliver presentations and how to develop succinct pitches. Students will work to refine their winning business plans, and present them to the panel of judges. Representatives from Bank of America and the local chambers will act as judges for the competition.

Throughout the convention, students will attend various workshops and educational events.  They will also have an opportunity to utilize their newly developed networking techniques as they meet and mingle with successful Hispanic entrepreneurs at what is considered the largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders in America.

"Preparing students for leadership through educational programs and initiatives is essential for their success, which is why we are proud to support the USHCC Foundation and BizFest, the entrepreneurship program that empowers youth with knowledge and insight into the world of business," says Kerry Sullivan, President, Bank of America Charitable Foundation.

The winners of the competition will be announced at a dedicated BizFest reception, immediately prior to the Chairman's Gala on Tuesday, September 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the JW Marriott at LA Live. The top three winners of the BizFest competition will receive college scholarships as recognition of their achievements; the first place winner will receive $3,000, second place will receive $2,000 and third place will receive $1,000. 

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of over 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate in excess of $465 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit www.ushcc.com.

About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The USHCC Foundation is committed to giving Hispanic entrepreneurs alternatives for life preparation and life-long learning by developing and implementing initiatives and educational campaigns to awaken and nurture their entrepreneurial spirit. The Foundation leverages corporate and public support to ensure that existing and aspiring Latino entrepreneurs gain access and achieve success in the world of business. Please visit www.ushccfoundation.org for more information on the USHCC Foundation.

SOURCE United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce