Microsoft continues its commitment to advancing Hispanics through technology as New Technology Founding Partner for National Hispanic Business Information Clearinghouse.

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In celebration of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) 29th Annual National Convention, Microsoft Corp. today announced its partnership with the National Hispanic Business Information Clearinghouse (BIC) as part of the company's commitment to advance Hispanic entrepreneurs and businesses in the United States through the use of technology.

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'The BIC is a unique, multilingual Web site that provides Latino entrepreneurs and small-business owners with top-rated business resources,' said Sal Gomez, founder and CEO of BIC. 'At http://www.nhbic.org, you will find a wealth of information on starting, marketing and managing your business, as well as local resources and training to help you succeed.'

A 2002 U.S. Census Bureau study showed that close to 70 percent of all Hispanic-owned businesses make less than $50,000 a year in gross sales and close to 70 percent have fewer than four employees. According to the Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, nearly one-third of all Hispanic-owned businesses fail to survive four years. Much of the success of a business depends on operations and management.

Microsoft has teamed with the BIC as the founding technology partner of this online initiative for Hispanic business owners and entrepreneurs. 'Technology is a critical tool that will help Latinos advance in both their life and career,' said Jose Pinero, director of Multicultural Marketing for Microsoft. 'At Microsoft we are very excited to provide content for the BIC's technology section and empower Latinos to succeed in their business enterprises.'

As Hispanic entrepreneurs strive to start their businesses and keep them alive and profitable, access to resources and technology becomes a key component of their entrepreneurial success. 'Our partnership with Microsoft will allow us to provide greater content and tools, including several free software solutions, technology disaster planning and recovery guidance, and even a technology budget worksheet for entrepreneurs,' said Michael Barrera, president of the BIC and former president of the USHCC.