Indian American entrepreneur Anil Sharma, CEO of 22nd Century Technologies, emphasized the transformative role of government contracting in scaling minority-owned businesses during his keynote address at the 15^th Jewels of Asia Awards Gala. The event, hosted by the Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), took place on May 21, 2025, in Tysons Corner, Virginia. 

Sharma noted that government contracts not only offer opportunities for business growth but also create pathways to give back — by generating employment, enhancing capabilities, and advancing public-sector technology. 

“But let me be clear: it’s not just about winning contracts. It’s about earning trust. It’s about delivering excellence. And it’s about showing that minority-owned businesses can be just as strategic, just as dependable, and just as visionary as any company out there — if not more,” he added.

Reflecting on the current generation of Asian American youth, Sharma described them as “digital natives, global thinkers, and socially conscious,” growing up in an America where conversations around identity, inclusion, and impact are more prominent than ever. Despite the evolving landscape, he said they carry forward the ambition and discipline instilled by earlier generations.

“Our job is to give them the tools, the mentorship, and the platforms they need to lead — not just in tech or business, but in government, healthcare, the arts, and public policy,” Sharma said. “We must ensure they know that their voice matters, their ideas belong, and their dreams are valid.”

Calling on leaders, mentors, and entrepreneurs to invest in Asian American communities, he encouraged collective empowerment. “Let’s lift each other up. Let’s build partnerships, share resources, and open doors that were once closed to us,” Sharma urged.

“Because when we rise, we bring others with us. When we lead, we rewrite the narrative,” he said, emphasizing that Asian Americans are not merely a “model minority,” but innovators, builders, and patriots.

“And we are, without question, the future,” he emphasized.

Drawing from his personal and professional journey, Sharma shared that as CEO of 22nd Century Technologies and a proud Asian American, he has witnessed firsthand how the community is helping to shape America’s future in powerful and lasting ways.

He began his remarks by paying tribute to the first generation of Asian immigrants to the United States.

“Let me begin by honoring those who came before us — the first generation of Asian immigrants to the United States,” Sharma said. “Many of them arrived with little more than hope and grit. They worked long hours, built small businesses from the ground up, often in industries no one else wanted to work in — from laundromats and restaurants to gas stations and corner stores.”

Although many of those early immigrants may not have held prominent positions, Sharma said they laid a strong foundation through their work ethic, commitment to education, and belief in the American Dream.

He noted that today, Asian Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in the U.S. electorate and among the most highly educated.

“We are building billion-dollar businesses, leading research at the nation’s top universities, and serving in local and federal governments. We’re no longer just part of the American story; we are co-authors of it.”

Sharma highlighted his own company’s evolution from a modest startup into a leading provider of government IT services, supporting digital transformation across federal, state, and local agencies.

“I’m proud to say that our leadership team and our staff reflect the diversity and innovation that defines the Asian American spirit,” he said.

Expressing enthusiasm about the gala’s milestone year, AACC President Cindy Shao told South Asian Herald, “We are excited to host the 15th Annual Jewels of Asia Gala, a powerful celebration of the vibrant contributions of Asian American leaders across all sectors,” she said.

Shao added that the event welcomed elected officials, diplomats, business executives, and community leaders in celebration of shared progress.

“Together, we are creating opportunities, building bridges, and shaping a future filled with promise.”

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