Evelyn Barahona

Evelyn Barahona is a seasoned leader and advocate for small business growth, serving as the Senior Vice President of the Educational Fund at the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC). In this role, she leads the nonprofit arm of the organization, driving initiatives that empower Hispanic-owned and small businesses and regional Chambers to thrive and scale. The USHCC is the largest small business advocacy and policy membership organization in the nation, representing the interests Hispanic-owned and small businesses across a diverse network of corporate partners, regional Chambers, and small business enterprise ecosystem.

A trusted advisor and strategic partner to key stakeholders, Evelyn works to accelerate the economic prosperity of small business enterprises through USHCC’s core pillars: driving capital access, securing strategic procurement contracts, and elevating the community’s competitive advantage for corporate and governmental agencies looking to remain competitive in the global marketplace. Under her leadership, the Educational Fund delivers impact driven programs and resources to promote economic growth and position small business enterprises to compete successfully and play a key role in making our American economy strong and local regional economies thriving.

With 25 years of experience spanning various sectors, Evelyn brings a wealth of knowledge in investment management, community advocacy, and philanthropic leadership. Her career includes over a decade in investment management and mission-driven work, including culturally competent based healthcare to drive positive health outcomes  She has also led membership development at the Boston Chamber of Commerce, and prior to USHCC, managed a portfolio of Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) at the Boston Foundation, overseeing significant community based funds such as the Massachusetts United for Puerto Rico Fund following Hurricane Maria, and the Latino Equity Fund, which focuses on the economic and health equity of Latinos in Massachusetts.

Evelyn is deeply committed to community leadership and serves on several boards, including Eastern Bank, Women’s Edge, and Playworks. She is also a member of the Advisory Committee of Women of Color UNIDAS at the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). In recognition of her leadership, she was named a Lideres Fellow by Hispanics in Philanthropy (HIP) and has received numerous leadership awards throughout her career.

A graduate of Northeastern University, Evelyn holds a degree in International Business and Finance and furthered her studies at NEOMA Business School (formerly ESC Reims) in Reims, France. Her dedication to advancing economic development for small businesses and community prosperity continues to drive her passion for creating a lasting and positive change that impacts all.