3 Ways to Support: Hispanic Small Businesses

Entrepreneurship is part of the Latino DNA. If you know a Latino, you know they’ve probably launched a business, in the process of,  or know someone that will launch a business.

By no means is it a surprise, however, as a community we can make strides to better support each other.

With a $650 million contribution to the U.S. economy, there should be no reason for Latino businesses not to thrive.

Without further ado, here are three ways to support a Latin@ small business during this Hispanic Heritage Month and all year round:

1. Shop Local and Buy Latino-Owned: Make a conscious effort to seek out and support Latino-owned businesses in your community. This can include restaurants, grocery stores, boutiques, and service providers. Many Latino entrepreneurs participate in local markets and festivals to showcase their products and services. The perfect excuse to go out and take your mom on a shopping spree! Moms, especially Latino moms love shopping!

2. Invest in Latino Entrepreneurship: If you have experience in business or a specific industry, consider mentoring aspiring Latino entrepreneurs. Share your knowledge, offer guidance, and help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. While you might not realize it, being the Padrino o Madrina (not the baptism type) for their business goes a long way! 

3. Educate and Raise Awareness: Educate yourself and others about the challenges faced by Latino entrepreneurs, such as access to capital, discrimination, and language barriers. Raising awareness of these issues in your community and among policymakers can make a difference down the line. Yep, we’re talking pull out the PowerPoint, bring out el cafecito, and teach your fam about policies that can make a difference.

Supporting Latino small businesses fosters community, creates an environment for growth, and offers opportunities for success for all.

There’s room for everyone to be successful, but it is up to us to create that space. Believing in our community can only lead to creating bigger opportunities for those we love.