We recently connected with Latina Entrepreneur Network and have shared our conversation below.
Latina Entrepreneur , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
The idea for our business, the Latina Entrepreneur Network, stemmed from a dire need we witnessed during the Covid pandemic. Seeing numerous women-owned small businesses facing collapse prompted us to create a support system specifically tailored to their needs. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, we embarked on this endeavor knowing that it was not only worthwhile but essential. Witnessing the struggles of fellow entrepreneurs fueled our determination to make a difference and offer a lifeline to those in need. Our confidence in the success of this initiative stemmed from its organic beginnings. Four small business owners, facing similar challenges, banded together and utilized social media to amplify each other’s visibility. This grassroots approach demonstrated the potential for collective empowerment and growth within our network.In establishing the Latina Entrepreneur Network, we identified a unique niche that set us apart from existing business groups. While there are many platforms for women entrepreneurs, our emphasis on geographical diversity and exclusivity—limiting representation to one business per category—ensures a supportive environment devoid of competition. By addressing this gap, we are indeed solving a problem that others have overlooked.
Latina Entrepreneur , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
The Latina Entrepreneur Network is a transformative networking group that empowers Latina business owners on their journey to success. Committed to education and community impact, the organization provides targeted classes, equipping entrepreneurs with essential skills to navigate the business landscape. Beyond knowledge, the network exemplifies a spirit of philanthropy, actively giving back to the community. By fostering a supportive ecosystem, this network transcends conventional mentorship, creating a dynamic space where Latinas flourish. Dedicated to bridging gaps and celebrating diversity, the Latina Entrepreneur Network stands as a beacon of empowerment, catalyzing positive change for women in business and making a lasting impact on communities at large
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
What has built the Latina Entrepreneur Network’s reputation is our commitment to not only our members but also our commitment to giving back to the community, These are some examples of what we have done in our community:
Annual toy drive to benefit the children of the women at The Option House Shelter for Victims of Domestic Abuse which is located in San Bernardino, CA
Mother’s day event for the women at Option house. We host a self care day by providing them Massages, Facials, Hair and makeup and a brand new outfit along with a tea party, in addition, we also have our LEN members give women empowerment speeches.
Hispanic Heritage event in 2022 in the City of San Bernardino where we have local women owned businesses to be featured as vendors. Amazing and empowering guest speakers such as Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, Assemblymember Eloise Gomez Reyes and a representative from San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran’s office.
We hosted a Hispanic Heritage Event in the City of Rialto along with the mayor of Rialto Deborah Robertson at Rialto City park. It was titled Wom-Empire. We invited local women owned businesses to be featured as vendors, a fashion show, our guest speakers included: Radio Personality Josefa Salinas and Mayor Deborah Robertson. The event was co-sponsored by radio station Old School 104.7 FM, the power of Excellence and LEN.
Annual Community Celebration for International Women’s Day, where we ha women empowerment networking event with Empowering speakers.
Annual Toy Drive to Benefit the Path of Life Ministries Family Homeless Shelter in the City of Riverside California
Annual Toy Drive to Benefit the Servant’s Closet Ministry in Riverside, CA
Volunteer at the annual Toy Gift Wrapping Event for the Children at the Path Of Life Ministries Family Homeless Shelter.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
One poignant example of our resilience within the Latina Entrepreneur Network is the story of our humble beginnings during the Covid pandemic. With just four members based in the Inland Empire, we faced unprecedented challenges as small business owners. Despite the uncertainty and adversity, we refused to succumb to despair. Pooling our resources and determination, we embarked on a journey of solidarity and support. Our initial efforts to market each other on social media served as the cornerstone of our network’s growth. As we navigated the tumultuous landscape of the pandemic, our bond strengthened, and our vision expanded. Today, with over 20 members hailing from various corners of Southern California, our journey stands as a testament to our resilience. Through perseverance and collaboration, we have transformed adversity into opportunity, paving the way for countless entrepreneurs to thrive in the face of uncertainty.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: latina_entrepreneurnetwork
- Facebook: Latina Entrepreneur Network
Image Credits
Photography credit to: Savannah Wilde