History

Founded as a nonprofit organization in 1984 in the nation’s capital, USPAACC began as a metaphorical acorn with a promise to grow into a strong oak tree to reach out to Asian Americans and minority businesses to help secure their place in the mainstream. To begin to fulfill this promise, we heeded the wisdom of the old Asian adage: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” We took this audacious single step a quarter of a century ago, and our journey thus far has never been more rewarding.

Since then, USPAACC has emerged as America’s foremost advocate for the Asian American and minority business communities. We have become a major player on the national scene, with high-level access to national policymakers and corporate executives.

Our 20th Anniversary celebration in 2005 drew U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao, U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez and PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi, and other notable leaders in business, the arts and sciences. During this auspicious occasion, we also presented an unprecedented 21 scholarships to promising Asian American and minority college-bound students.

Today, as we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we strengthen our continuing commitment to serve the needs and interests of Asian American and minority entrepreneurs. We have grown into a sturdy oak tree, with stronger roots and wider branches to reach out to our constituents. We now have six regional chapters nationwide: California on the West Coast, Texas in the Southwest, Georgia in the Southeast, Illinois in the Midwest, New York in the Northeast, and Virginia-Maryland-Washington, DC in the National Capital Area—with the common purpose of nurturing, educating and advocating for the business growth of our members.

Much has changed since USPAACC was founded: A new paradigm has emerged, a new model for success. And with a proven track record and thriving partnerships with our members in all sectors of society, we are more than ready to meet the challenges ahead. Here’s to the next 25 years!