Who We Are

Our History

In 1980, a Portuguese business owner active in the local chamber of commerce had the idea to bring together Portuguese professionals who were interested in starting or growing their own businesses. Initial meetings took place at the Philadelphia Portuguese Club, where the concept of a formal association took shape.
The founding members are: Nelson Viriato, Jose Bernardino Henriques, Baldomiro Soares, Silvino Coelho, Anibal Quintans, Joaquim Romao Caramelo, Jose Silva, Antonio Cordeiro, Jose Sergio, Jose Ventura, Antonio da Costa Andrade, Carlos M. Coelho, Antonio H. Filipe, Joao Santos, Carlos Santos, Leonel Barreiros, and Jose Borges.

PAPBA’s goal was not only networking, PAPBA focused on practical services for members, such as business-related insurance and support. In the mid-1980s, PAPBA helped organize an insurance group to offer better coverage and benefits for members and their families, reflecting the association’s commitment to real, concrete value for the Portuguese business

Today, PAPBA continues its long tradition of supporting Portuguese-American professionals, entrepreneurs, and families throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. What began in 1980 as a network of community members working together to build opportunity has evolved into a modern organization dedicated not only to business development, but also to educational advancement, cultural preservation, and leadership cultivation.
One of PAPBA’s most meaningful new initiatives is the establishment of the PAPBA Scholarship Fund, a program designed to empower the next generation of Portuguese descendants as they pursue higher education. Building on the organization’s historical values of service, unity, and community growth, the scholarship fund reflects PAPBA’s commitment to ensuring that future leaders have the support they need to succeed.
As PAPBA grows, the organization remains dedicated to creating opportunities for advancement, celebrating Portuguese culture, and fostering a strong professional network. The scholarship program is just one example of PAPBA’s renewed focus on building lasting impact for the next generation.
PAPBA continues to invite all Portuguese-American professionals, business owners, students, and community members to join in this mission, ensuring that the values of hard work, family, culture, and education thrive for decades to come.

Carlo M Teixeira President

Christina Lebre Vice-president

Baldomiro Soares Secretary

Christina Soares Treasurer

Pedro Teixeira Director

Christina Melhor Director

Miguel Fiel Director

Mina DaCunha Director

Ana Ferreira, Esq

Hon. Joseph Fernandes

Nelson V Baptista