JOURNAL OF SMALL BUSINESS ~TRA TEG+ DIGITAL DIVIDE: IMPACT ON

Information inequity creates a major gap between minority and non-minority businesses in the areas of business opportunities, communication, and information technologies. The purpose of tliis study is to survey the technological potential of Hispanic-owned small businesses (HSBsj to engage in e-commerce, specifically in e-procurement. The nanies of the HSBs were requested from tlie Ofiice of Small Business Administration, whicli provided a national database of 9,800 businesses. A total of l,200 businesses were randomly selected to receive the survey. Results indicate that small businesses haveissues ofconcern regarding ihe process to access the Internet. HSBs find limitations in gaining access to e-commerce and its elements. Some limitations relate to financial constraints to buy computers; other liniitations relate to Iniernet access methodology and ability to hire information technology personnel. Assisting HSBs to gain access to financial resources is crucial towards narrowing the digital divide and therefore reducingleliminating its ejfects on the long-term sumival of Hispanic small businesses. Government agencies and non-profit and private business organizations should develop financial and outreach opportunities to enhance participation of Hispanic-owned small businesses