While its three funds have produced returns over 30 percent, it has never concentrated solely on Hispanic businesses.

From the sidewalk business to automobile part stores to department stores, Hispanic businesses have made their mark in the neighborhood.

Despite the advances, Hispanic businesses still represent only a small segment of the American business community.

Most Hispanic businesses are small and their owners often lack the resources to grow.

"And if you look at the little grocery stores, there are more Hispanic businesses than black businesses."

Mr. Bernard said there are about 16,000 Hispanic businesses in the county.

The number of Hispanic businesses in the region increased to an estimated 150,000 today from fewer than 100,000 in the middle of the last decade.

From 1977 to 1987, the number of Hispanic businesses in the county surged from 229 to almost 1,700, the latest figures available.

This program has helped Hispanic businesses get some of their biggest contracts.

Most Hispanic high-tech businesses have some connection to the Government.