Leading with Purpose: Angela Franco’s Vision for Montgomery County’s Business Community

This year​,​ during National Hispanic Heritage Month, MCEDC will spotlight Montgomery County Hispanic business leaders and their contributions to our community.   

In Montgomery County, Maryland, where nearly 20 percent of businesses are owned by Hispanics, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) serves as a strong and trusted advocate for local companies, representing them at the local, state, and federal levels to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future. This work is especially important in Montgomery County, one of the most diverse counties in the nation.

At the helm of the MCCC network of local businesses is Angela Franco, whose career and leadership continue to support this thriving business community. As President and CEO of the county’s chamber of commerce, Angela is a recognized business leader with a long track record of strengthening organizations across the Washington metropolitan region. Prior to this role, which she ​​began​​ in September 2024, she led the DC Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.  

But it all started in Bogota, Colombia, where Franco was born and raised. She credits her international upbringing for her ability to champion Montgomery County companies. “I have a global mindset that guides all of my decision-making,” explains Franco. “And, while business is important, so are our employees and the communities we serve, so that’s something I’m always considering when making decisions.” 

Through the Chamber, Angela and her team ensure all businesses have access to the resources they need to succeed. From networking opportunities and accelerator programs to advocacy at the local and state level, MCCC plays a key role in strengthening the business ecosystem. Hispanic businesses represent 22 percent of all businesses in Montgomery County. “Hispanics are entrepreneurs at heart,” explains Franco. “I want to provide Hispanic and all businesses with the opportunities to reach their full potential.”  

Montgomery County is home to four out of the 10 of most diverse cities in the United States-Gaithersburg, Germantown, Silver Spring, and Rockville​-​and Hispanic business owners can find a community and business ecosystem that makes them feel welcome and supports the growth of their companies here. When it comes to advocating for all local businesses, MCCC also fosters discussions with local, State and Federal elected leaders to ensure that the voices of the business community are heard. Additionally, there are many resources and organizations available here to help them thrive. For example, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation is dedicated to advancing education, workforce development and leadership in the Montgomery County Hispanic community.  

What also helps make Hispanic Montgomery County businesses ​​thrive​​ is the international community found here. Many Hispanic companies also benefit the international community found in the area. Whether you are Colombian, Salvadorian, Venezuelan or Mexican, each culture and ​​country​​ is celebrated, with many cultural organizations available nearby to help support employees. As Franco said, “Hispanic companies make up a large part of Montgomery County and I firmly believe that all businesses have a great opportunity here”.