By The Star Staff
United Retailers Center (CUD by its Spanish acronym) President Lourdes Aponte Rodríguez and Orange County, Florida Commissioner Maribel Gómez Cordero signed a collaborative agreement in order to encourage Puerto Rican entrepreneurship and exchange and promote an ecosystem of support for entrepreneurs in the city of Orlando, the officials announced on Thursday.
“We are very happy with this agreement because it facilitates development opportunities for our entrepreneurs within the City of Orlando,” Aponte Rodríguez said. “At the same time, SMEs [small and midsize enterprises] are provided with the ability to obtain all government procedures and action more quickly to establish businesses outside of Puerto Rico.”
Under the agreement, the two agencies will work together to identify and share information about business opportunities in Orlando that align with the interests and goals of Puerto Rican entrepreneurs.
In addition, the CUD and Commissioner Gómez Cordero will coordinate efforts to provide guidance, resources and assistance to entrepreneurs throughout the entire business development process, including, but not limited to, market research, legal requirements and networking opportunities.
“Without small businesses, we wouldn’t have a diverse collection of products and services available,” Gómez Cordero said. “In addition, small businesses support the local economy and create jobs in our communities that sustain our families. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community and our economy.”
The parties also agreed to transparently share relevant information on economic trends, industry outlook and regulatory changes that may affect entrepreneurs operating in Orlando. In addition, they pledged to jointly organize events, seminars, workshops and networking sessions aimed at connecting Puerto Rican entrepreneurs with local business leaders.
The effort will also seek to ensure equal access to opportunities for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
More information can be obtained by writing to info@cudpuertorico.com.