Melanie Marie Boyer, CEO, Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

In an interview with Invest:, Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and foundation CEO Melanie Marie Boyer highlighted the chamber’s focus on scaling support for Latino entrepreneurs. Key initiatives include AI-powered smart advisors, expanded networking, and efforts to improve access to capital. “Doing something today is fine, but being able to continue doing something that will impact not only people today, but future generations is essential,” she said.

What have been some significant highlights or achievements for the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in the past year?

We received a grant from the Pennsylvania CDFI Network to provide technical assistance for businesses. Our population is growing rapidly — not only the Hispanic population but the small-business community overall. To meet rising demand without expanding staff, we launched our AI-powered Smart Advisor program. Entrepreneurs are busy, often working late, so our 24/7 Smart Advisors meet them where they are — helping with access to capital, budgeting, business planning, marketing, HR, and more. We also offer scholarships for free memberships to small businesses. Additionally, we developed the Melanie Bot to answer questions about the chamber and created an internal HR bot for standard operating procedures and policies.

What kinds of businesses or industries have shown the most growth or momentum in the metro area recently? 

It might seem typical to say restaurants, but I attended the Big Table International Food Event recently, and nearly half of the food vendors were Hispanic-owned — and it wasn’t even a Hispanic-centered event. Many were food trucks and caterers. That kind of representation at a mainstream event signals a cultural and economic shift that’s already underway — and it’s being led by Latino entrepreneurs.

Pittsburgh may have a smaller Hispanic population compared to other cities, but we are definitely growing. Beyond food, we’re seeing momentum in consumer goods, handmade and imported specialty items, construction, insurance — really, businesses in every sector are emerging. Latinos are creating jobs and powering growth at one of the fastest rates in the country.

Are there any specific sectors or initiatives that you believe could drive the next wave of economic development in the region?

The opportunity AI presents across all industries is still largely untapped. What we really need is small-business growth — especially in service industries like consulting. Many professionals don’t realize their experience is enough to launch a business. Digital tools like our Smart Advisors can be the bridge that helps them step out of the 9 to 5 and into entrepreneurship. Whether someone is starting or growing a business, automation makes resources more efficient, scalable, and accessible. That’s the next wave — enabling growth for anyone, anywhere, with tools that work around the clock.

What resources does the chamber offer its members in terms of knowledge, and how are you meeting them where they are to help them grow their businesses?

We pride ourselves on being connectors. In Pittsburgh, it’s often about who you know. We’ve built a strong network and invite our members to leverage it. We also have a broad digital reach — our newsletter and social media reach around 20,000 people each month, and members can promote jobs, events, or announcements there.

But the most transformative tool we offer is our Smart Advisor system. Anything someone might call to ask me — about resources, their business, or navigating a challenge — is now automated and available 24/7. That kind of real-time guidance is a game-changer.

How is the chamber supporting businesses in navigating challenges around talent attraction, workforce development, or upskilling?

We run an annual Business Success Academy that takes 20 businesses through a curriculum covering marketing, operations, and growth strategies. Graduates receive a business commercial, participate in a ceremony, and are featured in Pittsburgh Latino Magazine. One of our graduates went on to land a major regional contract within weeks — a testament to what’s possible with the right support.

Beyond that, we host monthly networking events that bring together decision-makers, small businesses, and young professionals. These are not just mixers — they’re launchpads for contracts, partnerships, and mentoring. We focus on creating symbiotic partnerships. While our lens is Hispanic-focused, everyone is welcome. Ignoring the Hispanic community isn’t just shortsighted — it’s a missed opportunity to engage one of the world’s largest economic forces.

How is the chamber working with local governments or private developers to attract new investment and support business retention?

It starts with the pipeline. We’re focused on building pipelines earlier — for businesses, students, and the workforce. We collaborate with organizations to provide both resources and advocacy. For example, we championed corporate tax reduction legislation that has improved Pittsburgh’s competitive standing. We also supported the Family Care Act, which would ensure access to paid family and medical leave — an important step in making our region more supportive for both workers and employers.

But it’s not just about attracting investment — it’s about making people feel at home. In the past, some founders left because they didn’t see their culture reflected here. That’s why cultural representation, community events, and diverse leadership matter. When people see someone who looks like them leading, it builds belonging. That human connection is key to retention and regional growth.

What are the major challenges Hispanic business owners in the region are facing?

Access to capital remains the biggest barrier. While Latinos are leading in entrepreneurship, we receive a disproportionately low percentage of funding. Venture capital is a prime example — around 0.01% goes to Latinos. There’s also a lack of trust in banks, especially among green card holders. Some past anti-discrimination protections have been rolled back, making it harder. That’s why we launched our AI-powered Smart Advisors — to educate, prepare, and support entrepreneurs 24/7, even at 2 or 3 a.m. We’re committed to breaking down financial barriers in a sustainable, scalable way.

What is the outlook for business growth in the region over the next three years, and what key priorities will you be focusing on during that time?

The trajectory is incredibly promising. Pittsburgh is becoming a hub for AI and robotics, which attracts businesses, talent, and funding. Our downtown is thriving, and population growth is trending up, especially in high-paying sectors. That creates a real opportunity to invest in our neighborhoods and small businesses.

Our top priorities are scale and sustainability. For every program we launch, we ask: Who does it serve? Can it scale? Is it sustainable long-term? We’re building with the future in mind. Because the true measure of impact isn’t what we do today — it’s what future generations are empowered to do because of it.

We’re not just shaping an economy — we’re building an ecosystem rooted in equity, resilience, and belonging. Pittsburgh has the potential to lead the nation in inclusive innovation, and we’re here to make sure that no one is left behind on that journey.