Fostering a culture of innovation is important to Jaime di Paulo, president and chief executive officer of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC). Since its founding in 1990, IHCC has served as a vital advocate and resource for Hispanic entrepreneurs, fostering knowledge, connections and collaboration to drive sustainable economic impact. The organization is now led by di Paulo, who draws from his experiences in the industry and as the son of Mexican immigrants.
Before assuming leadership at IHCC in 2019, di Paulo built a career in business development and advocacy. As executive director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce in Chicago, he transformed the organization into a hub for Latino entrepreneurs. Earlier roles included business development director at the Greater Oklahoma City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and leadership positions in Mexico, where he fostered binational cooperation through nonprofit work.
Under di Paulo’s leadership, IHCC has expanded its technical assistance and mentoring programs, impacting thousands of Hispanic-owned businesses. Notable initiatives include the ScaleUp program, which equips entrepreneurs with essential skills in financial literacy, marketing and strategic planning. These efforts have been instrumental in helping businesses navigate challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, IHCC has secured over $88 million in contracts, loans, and grants for small businesses while creating and retaining over 18,000 jobs in Illinois.
“Jaime di Paulo has been at the forefront of several groundbreaking initiatives that have not only strengthened IHCC’s role in the business community but also contributed to economic growth across the Midwest,” said his staff.
One significant initiative was the development of Corama, an AI-powered platform designed to help minority-owned businesses secure government and corporate contracts. This innovative system earned international recognition as a finalist at the 13th World Chambers Congress. Alongside technological advancements, di Paulo has expanded IHCC’s partnerships with national organizations, creating pathways for Hispanic entrepreneurs to access larger markets and funding opportunities.
Through initiatives like the IHCC Roundtable of Women CEOs, di Paulo has championed the role of Hispanic women in business, fostering collaboration and innovation among female leaders. His broader advocacy efforts include securing minority representation in legislative processes and partnering with organizations to amplify the voices of underserved communities.
To reignite his passion as a leader, di Paulo said he reminds himself of the why behind what the organization does – its mission to create meaningful change and drive innovation. “I find that staying close to the core purpose of the business keeps me inspired,” he said. “Whether it’s by interacting with clients, learning about their challenges, or witnessing the impact of our work firsthand, reconnecting with the bigger picture fuels my passion.”