The U.S. Department of Commerce announced that the Minority Business Development Agency and the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
According to the press release, this strategic alliance aims to ensure minority business enterprises (MBEs) in the Jewish community have access to capital, contracts, global markets, and resources to help grow and scale their businesses.
“The Minority Business Development Agency is excited to collaborate with the Orthodox Jewish community and help break down barriers and expand opportunities for the global Jewish community’s entrepreneurs,” said Eric Morrissette, performing the non-exclusive duties of the under secretary of commerce for minority business development. “This MOU will help expand access for Jewish businesses and professionals, and the business world at large.”
The MOU will leverage the Minority Business Development Agency and the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce's collective abilities, networks, and assets; helping each other expand the public’s awareness of their priorities, initiatives, and resources available to the Jewish community.
This MOU will also help both the Minority Business Development Agency and the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce identify opportunities to participate in conferences, workshops, seminars, and other educational outreach activities.
“The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous partner, helping to fuel the business creation and growth that are driving forces for the nation’s economy,” said Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves. “The Biden-Harris Administration, the Department of Commerce, and MBDA are committed to ensuring Jewish business and entrepreneurs have access to the resources and opportunities needed to grow their business.”
This agreement is built upon a history of collaboration, centered on fostering economic development, enhancing access to opportunities, and supporting MBEs within the Orthodox Jewish community.
"It's a tremendous honor to work with leaders like Deputy Secretary Don Graves, Deputy Under Secretary Morrissette, and Joann Hill from MBDA, whose efforts have led to closer and more intentional collaboration between MBDA and OJCC,” said Duvi Honig, founder & CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. “This MOU signing marks a significant opportunity for the Jewish community and is a testament to their outstanding leadership."
This MOU signing is a part of an initiative to expand overall MBE access to contracts, capital, and to increase participation with various new industries within the public and private sectors for a wide variety of business demographics.
The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency is the only federal agency dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of U.S. minority business enterprises (MBEs).
The Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce is a global umbrella of businesses of all sizes, along with leading professionals, elected officials, and communal activists.