Celebrating Culture and Commerce with 7th Annual Diwali Gala

The Indian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky (IACC) celebrated its 7th Annual Diwali Gala Dinner on November 4, 2017.  The evening included a cultural immersion into the celebration of Diwali. Lanterns, bright colors, henna, traditional dress, food, a Queen City Treasure Chest raffle and dance performances flooded the evening. Inspirational speeches from Mr. Bob Coughlin, CEO of Paycor, and Mr. Mahendra Vora, Chairman of Vora Ventures, engaged the 300 guests. Key business leaders, other chamber leadership, Indian professionals and elected officials were in attendance.

IACC was founded in 2010 and is devoted to its mission of uniting and connecting Cincinnati’s Indian business community with the purpose of fostering business and professional relationships. The board of directors, advisory council and members serve the community through appointments to Hamilton County and the City of Cincinnati councils and commissions. Members have had the opportunity to engage with advocates of the community, including U.S.

Senator Rob Portman, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, Governor John Kasich, India’s Ambassador, India’s Minister of Commerce and more.   

The organization has hosted networking events, professional development seminars, and community-driven celebrations throughout the year. Some of the 2017 highlighted events include the first Ohio Asian Small Business Summit, co-hosted by the IACC and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, receptions for University of Cincinnati President Dr. Neville Pinto and Ohio Supreme Court Justice Mr. Pat DeWine and the second annual STIR Multicultural Celebration – connecting seven local chambers for cross-networking. The organization launched its young professionals (YP) committee, hosting various networking and YP engagement events across the Cincinnati region.

In 2018, IACC will continue to execute its strategic plan to host needs-based programs, increase representation, give back to the community and invest in its members.

For more information about the chamber, upcoming events and to become a member, visit IACC online at www.indianchambercincinnati.org and its social media pages.