According to a recent study released by the University of Tennessee, Tennessee has the third fastest growing Hispanic population in the country and represents one of the fastest growing consumer markets in the United States. This growth has driven a sharp increase in the number of Hispanic-owned businesses. These businesses have been drivers of job growth in a difficult economy and represent one of the best opportunities for new jobs in the region. HCCET works to support and promote Hispanic businesses and to help forge strategic relationships between Hispanic and mainstream businesses and government agencies seeking minority vendors, subcontractors and employees