Founding Partnership Spotlight: AT&T – Elevating California Small Businesses Through Connectivity and Advocacy

As we celebrate 15 years of championing AAPI businesses, we recognize the partners who have been with us since the beginning—those who believed in our mission and helped shape the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (CalAsian Chamber) into the force it is today. AT&T has been one of those invaluable partners, standing with us since our founding in 2010 and playing a crucial role in advancing economic opportunities for AAPI entrepreneurs across California.

A Partnership Rooted in Vision and Impact

From day one, AT&T saw the potential of the CalAsian Chamber and the plans our President & CEO, Pat Fong Kushida, made in making an impact on the small business community. They recognized that our work would go beyond advocacy. We were building an ecosystem where underserved businesses could thrive, influence policy, and gain access to the resources they need to grow.

“Pat and her team have built a powerhouse organization that not only supports AAPI-owned businesses but also elevates their voices in critical policy conversations,” said Jason Chan, Chief of Staff, President State External & Legislative Affairs at AT&T. “Their ability to drive real impact, foster business growth, and champion economic empowerment made it clear that this was an organization we wanted to stand behind.”

AT&T’s early and steadfast support has helped us develop and expand programs that provide technical assistance, supplier diversity training, and leadership development—critical areas that continue to shape the success of underserved businesses in California.

A Commitment That Has Never Wavered

Over the years, AT&T’s support has remained unwavering, driven by their deep belief in our mission. They have stood with us as we have worked to remove barriers, ensuring that small businesses have equitable access to capital, procurement opportunities, and policy representation.

“Quite simply, it’s the passion, innovation, and relentless dedication of Pat and her team that has kept us engaged and inspired year after year,” said Chan. “Our partnership with the Chamber is more than just financial support—it’s a shared commitment to driving meaningful change.”

This shared commitment was especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when AAPI-owned businesses faced unprecedented challenges. AT&T supported us as we mobilized to provide direct relief through grants, technical assistance, and advocacy efforts—helping to keep doors open, jobs intact, and communities strong.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Innovation and Growth

As we step into the future, AT&T remains a key partner in our mission. With technology playing an increasingly vital role in business success, our continued collaboration will help underserved small businesses embrace digital transformation and innovation.

“AT&T is committed to standing alongside the Chamber as they continue to grow their impact,” said Chan. “Whether through ongoing sponsorship, strategic partnerships, or initiatives that help AAPI businesses embrace digital transformation, we look forward to deepening our collaboration.”

With AT&T’s continued support, we will expand our reach, enhance our programs, and create new opportunities for small businesses to succeed in an ever-changing economy.

Celebrating 15 Years of Impact—Together

As we mark this milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to AT&T for their dedication, leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of small businesses. Their support has been instrumental in our journey, and together, we will continue to shape a future where underserved businesses thrive, innovate, and lead.

Join us as we celebrate 15 years of success and look ahead to even greater possibilities. With partners like AT&T by our side, the best is yet to come.