Grant Allows Expansion Of Program For Hispanic Entrepreneurs

By Dulce Torres Guzman, Tennessee Lookout

December 1, 2022

Each year, Conexión Américas in Nashville assists more than 9,000 Hispanic entrepreneurs seeking business opportunities, but a $210,000 grant from Bank of America will allow an expansion to the existing program.

Aspiring Hispanic entrepreneurs will now have access to classes, coaching and networking opportunities to build their skills and help their existing businesses grow. Participants will also have the opportunity to market their businesses through an online marketing campaign.

“Latinos have an incredible entrepreneurial spirit but often face hurdles when it comes to starting and growing businesses in Nashville,” said Martha Silva, co-executive director of Conexión Américas, in a statement.

Although Hispanic-owned businesses have lower average annual revenues compared to non-Hispanic businesses, according to Biz2credit’s Latino Small Business Credit Study, Hispanic businesses have opened at a much faster rate than other groups over the last decade.

Eliminating current barriers may be key to economic success, since Hispanic entrepreneurs often have less access to business education, funding and networking opportunities.

“Small businesses create jobs and anchor our communities. At Bank of America in Nashville, we are focused on supporting entrepreneurs so they are set up for success,” said Tyson Moore, Bank of America Nashville market president. “Conexión Américas has decades of experience creating a welcoming community for our immigrant and refugee neighbors and we can’t wait to see what new businesses come from this program.”

Hispanic entrepreneurs and other immigrant-owned businesses will also have an opportunity to show their wares at Conexión Américas annual Holiday Bazaar on December 3.

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