Senator Bobby Joe Champion Honored for Leadership in Latino Business Growth and Economic Equity in Minnesota

SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Senator Bobby Joe Champion (DFL–Minneapolis), chair of the Senate Jobs & Economic Development Committee, was recognized on Thursday with the “Excellence in Leadership and Service Award” by the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota (LCCM) at the Chamber’s annual Business Awards dinner. The award honors Champion’s ongoing work supporting Latino entrepreneurs, small businesses, and families across the state.

Champion’s Commitment to Economic Growth and Latino-Owned Businesses

Senator Champion has been a leading advocate for economic inclusion, workforce development, and small business access—particularly for Minnesota’s Latino community.

“This award is a great honor for me. I have proudly supported policies that strengthen Latino businesses, entrepreneurs, and families, the very foundation of the community,” Champion said. “When the Latino community succeeds, our entire state succeeds. That’s why I’ll continue working with Latino leaders to enact policies that create jobs and foster economic development, not only within Latino communities, but across the entire state. We know those key investments strengthen Minnesota many times over.”

Key Legislative Achievements

Champion’s policy and legislative efforts have provided tangible benefits for Latino communities and small businesses:

• PROMISE Act (2023): A state-funded program that provides grants and loans to businesses, nonprofits, and developers in communities facing economic barriers. The act has been instrumental in helping Latino-owned small businesses overcome economic challenges, access capital, and grow sustainably. (house.mn.gov)
• Support for the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC): Champion has secured funding for LEDC, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that provides capital, technical assistance, and business development support to Latino and immigrant entrepreneurs.
• Statewide Economic Impact: Through strategic legislation and budget priorities, Champion has emphasized that investing in Latino-owned businesses benefits Minnesota’s economy as a whole, fostering job creation, business growth, and community wealth.

Recognition by the Latino Chamber of Commerce

The Latino Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota, which promotes Latino entrepreneurship and economic development, recognized Champion for his leadership, legislative impact, and dedication to strengthening Latino businesses statewide. The Chamber’s annual Business Awards highlight leaders whose work fosters business growth, innovation, and community impact.

Why This Matters for Minnesota

Champion’s work exemplifies how targeted investment in underserved communities generates broader economic benefits. By supporting Latino-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, Minnesota can increase employment, stimulate local economies, and create a more equitable business landscape. Programs like the PROMISE Act and LEDC partnerships serve as critical tools in driving this economic equity.

Looking Ahead

While the award celebrates past achievements, it also underscores expectations for continued advocacy:

• Expanding support for Latino-owned businesses in future state budgets
• Ensuring PROMISE Act programs measure and deliver measurable outcomes
• Deepening collaboration between public and private sectors to strengthen Latino business development

Champion reaffirmed his commitment, stating: “I’ll continue working with Latino leaders to enact policies that create jobs and foster economic development… across the entire state.”

About Senator Bobby Joe Champion

Senator Champion represents Minnesota Senate District 59, covering downtown and north Minneapolis, and serves as President of the Minnesota Senate. He chairs the Senate Jobs & Economic Development Committee and has led historic investments in workforce and economic policy through the state budget. (senatedfl.mn)

Conclusion
Senator Bobby Joe Champion’s recognition by the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota underscores his effective leadership in advancing Latino business growth, economic inclusion, and statewide opportunity. The award highlights both his past accomplishments and ongoing commitment to strengthening Minnesota’s Latino business community.

For more information, visit Latino Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota and Minnesota PROMISE Act.

MinneapoliMedia