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12/02/2010 12:16 AM

Latino Women Entrepreneurs Discuss Challenges At Bronx Forum

By: NY1 News

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State lawmakers hosted a public meeting Wednesday on the issues and concerns affecting Latino women entrepreneurs.

Dozens gathered at the at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx to learn about programs available to women in business.

The hope is that they'll be encouraged to use the available resources, such as no fee loans, to start or expand businesses.

The Small Business Administration says now is a critical time for the programs.

"It's the first time in history that Congress has passed us to go from a $2 million loan limit to a $5 million loan limit. So given the state of New York State real estate as well as what small businesses are trying to do, now is a great time to take advantage of these programs," said Small Business Administration District Director Pravina Raghavan.

Members of the State Senate Puerto Rican and Latino Caucus say they hope the information gathered at the meeting will help develop policy that will lead to improving the process for Latino women as they look to enhance their business opportunities.