MEDIA ADVISORY: 700+ Entrepreneurs, Policymakers and Business Leaders to Convene in Houston for the National ACE 2026 Annual Conference
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2026
PRESS CONTACT
Phuong Nguyen
The National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE)is convening more than 700 entrepreneurs, small business owners, policymakers, corporate executives and community leaders from across the country in Houston for its 2026 Annual Conference on Friday, September 18, at The Westin Galleria Houston.
Under the theme “Navigating the New Frontier: Business, Community & the AI Revolution,” the conference comes at a pivotal moment for America’s small businesses. Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are rapidly changing how businesses operate, reach customers and compete. National ACE is bringing together leaders from across sectors to ensure Asian American and Pacific Islander small business owners and all entrepreneurs have the resources, relationships and opportunities to navigate these changes and benefit from this new era of innovation.
Throughout the day, conversations will examine business growth, access to capital, technology and AI, workforce development, community impact and economic opportunity, providing entrepreneurs with practical insights and connections to help them adapt, innovate and thrive.
WHAT
2026 National ACE Annual Conference
Navigating the New Frontier: Business, Community & the AI Revolution
WHEN
Friday, September 18, 2026
Conference: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CT
Awards Gala: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM CT
WHERE
The Westin Galleria Houston
5060 West Alabama StreetHouston, TX 77056
WHO
More than 700 entrepreneurs, policymakers, corporate executives, community leaders and small business advocates from across the country.
Featured participants include:
Dr. Kjell Lindgren, Astronaut & Deputy Director, Flight Operations Directorate, NASA
Ram Palaniappan, Founder & CEO, EarnIn
Pavan Pidugu, Former Chief Digital & Information Officer, U.S. Department of Transportation
Steve Kean, President & CEO, Greater Houston Partnership
Gigi Lee, Chief of International Affairs, Office of the Mayor of Houston
Dr. Martha Wong, Former State Representative
Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson, Owner/Operator, J-C’s McD’s Ltd.
MEDIA CREDENTIAL REQUESTS
Members of the media interested in covering the conference are invited to submit the registration form to request media credentials.
Submitting the form does not guarantee admission or media access. All requests will be reviewed by National ACE, and approved media will receive confirmation and credential information prior to the conference. Request media credentials here.
For interview requests or additional media inquiries, contact Phuong Nguyen at pnguyen@nationalace.org.
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About National ACE: National ACE’s mission is to serve as a strong advocate of AAPI and all small business interests and positive change on issues that enhance and advance the goals and aspirations of business owners, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders. National ACE supports policies and programs that strengthen small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and foster the next generation of entrepreneurs and executives. Learn more at www.nationalace.org.