News - Small Business Program Sweeps GWHCC Business Expo Pitch Competition, Earns Community Partner Recognition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 28, 2026

PRESS CONTACT: Donald Ndebeka, (215) 896-5888, dndebeka@carlosrosario.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC) held its Annual Business Expo on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Drawing more than 1,000 entrepreneurs and over 60 exhibitors, the event also marked the GWHCC’s 50th anniversary.

A standout moment at the expo came from graduates of the Carlos Rosario School Small Business Program, which is also marking its 10th anniversary this year. During the opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, the program was honored with the Community Impact Award in recognition of that milestone.

Carlos Rosario School CEO Allison Kokkoros and Small Business Program Manager Raul Medrano accepted the award on stage.

The recognition extended well beyond the ceremony. Of the eight finalists in the GWHCC Annual Pitch Competition, five were graduates of the Carlos Rosario School Small Business Program, and all three top finishers were program alumni:

  • 1st Place: Diana Castrillon, Almendro Station (Aromatic Candles) – $500 and a laptop
  • 2nd Place: Jamyl Dugum, Artesano (Teas and Spices) – $400 and a laptop
  • 3rd Place: Gemma Kibunja, Gems Field and Fork (Catering) – $300 and a laptop

 


Program graduates also showcased their businesses in the Expo’s Small Business Village: Jamyl Dugum of Artesano (Teas and Spices), Diana Castrillon of Almendro Station (Aromatic Candles), Jorge Nunez of Car Extreme (Auto Detailing), and Jannyn Munoz of SweetArt (Baked Goods).

At the GWHCC Executive Luncheon, Kokkoros and Medrano presented GWHCC President and CEO Nicole Quiroga with a plaque from Carlos Rosario School in honor of the Chamber’s 50 years of leadership in the community.

“This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Carlos Rosario School Small Business Program, and the GWHCC Business Expo was a powerful reflection of what that decade has built. Watching our graduates take the top three prizes in the pitch competition while also being recognized as Community Impact Partner of the Year confirms what we have always believed: this program changes lives and strengthens our local economy.” Raul Medrano

Launched in 2010, the GWHCC Annual Business Expo is one of the region’s premier events connecting multicultural-owned businesses with potential partners and clients across sectors. The Washington metro area is among the fastest-growing Hispanic markets in the country.

To learn more about the Carlos Rosario School Small Business Entrepreneurship Program, visit www.carlosrosario.org/courses/class-listings/small-business-entrepreneurship-program/