The Latina Business Boom

It’s a trend that’s good news for women and minorities:  Latina’s presence in the workplace is steadily rising. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we take a look at Latina women in business today.

Out of the 1.9 million companies majority-owned by women of color, Latina women own nearly 34 percent and generate sales of more than $45 billion annually. 

“Latina woman are finally waking up to their own power – many Latinas are educated but born to be at home, cook, have kids and that’s it,” Mabel Katz, author and former Latina radio and TV host, tells PINK. “We can finally be financially independent, and we’re ready to give a better example to our communities.”

Hispanic-owned businesses have seen an 82 percent growth rate since 1997.
Many attribute this success to Latina women’s ability to overcome obstacles.

“The immigrant experience strengthens our resolve and commitment to prove our worth,” says Daisy Expósito of minority firm D Expósito & Partners. “It was much tougher when I started, but in today’s multicultural America, the sky is the limit. And we can even paint it with our own colors.”

Want more?

The National Latina Business Women Association has chapters nationwide, offering programs and services for Latina entrepreneurs and executives. “Most of these chapters include job listings, newsletters and links to other business related organizations,” says Expósito.

Mujersísimas features articles on issues pertaining to Latina women, from facing obstacles at work to money management.

Bonus PINK Link: Hispanic-owned business will continue to prosper as the Hispanic market continues to boom. Find out more.

By Keon Jamaal Steele

“Latinas are here to stay. I’m proud to be Latina.” Raquel Welch