By: Paula Múnera Belanger
Para leer este artículo en español click: Pequeños Negocios Latinos: Herencia, Fortaleza y Futuro de Nuestra Economía
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the richness of our culture and recognize the powerful role Latino entrepreneurs play in shaping America’s economy. Across Louisiana and the nation, Latino-owned small businesses are fueling growth, driving innovation, and transforming communities with resilience and vision.
From the kitchens of our abuelas to the construction crews rebuilding neighborhoods, Latino entrepreneurs are creating jobs, revitalizing economies, and leaving a lasting mark. In fact, Latinos created 36 percent of all new businesses in the U.S. between 2017 and 2021, and in 2022, Latino-owned firms employed over 3.5 million people and generated $653 billion in revenue. Nationally, Hispanic-owned firms produced nearly $573 billion in annual revenue, a testament to the scale of our contribution.
Here in Louisiana, the impact is visible in every parish and every sector. Latino businesses power construction, restaurants, transportation, retail, and services industries essential to the daily lives of all residents. Large-scale events such as Super Bowl LIX, which generated more than $1.25 billion in economic activity for the state, according to GNO, Inc. and the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, highlight how regional growth creates opportunities for small businesses, including those owned by Latinos.
Yet our journey is not without challenges. Access to capital, navigating regulations, and building networks can be daunting. Still, these obstacles only remind us of the strength our community carries. By following guidelines, staying financially prepared, and connecting with support systems, Latino entrepreneurs can thrive, not just survive.
This month is more than a celebration—it is a call to action. Each Latino-owned business is not only an engine of growth but also a cornerstone of legacy for the next generation. When we invest in ourselves and support one another, we are writing a story of empowerment and prosperity.
To all Latino entrepreneurs: keep growing, innovating, and showing the world the power of our comunidad.
Join us at La Cumbre Empresarial 2025 on November 8th at the University of Holy Cross—a day dedicated to knowledge, networking, and the shared vision of a stronger Latino business community.
