Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month: Conversations with Hispanic and Latino Entrepreneurs

The Turner Center for Entrepreneurship and Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Bradley University invites you to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with us as we highlight Hispanic and Latino owned small businesses right here in Central Illinois. Starting a business is not easy, and Latino and Hispanic entrepreneurs face unique challenges. Let us recognize and visit with several who are finding their way to success. We are excited to feature a panel of four local entrepreneurs in a discussion led by our moderator. This in-person event is offered at no cost. Hear about the entrepreneurial journeys from four local Hispanic business owners: What inspired them to start their businesses? What obstacles have they overcome? What challenges remain? What resources have they discovered along the way? What sets them apart from their competitors? What innovation or impact makes them most proud of their business? What are they working on next? Additional questions from the audience Who should attend? New or prospective small business owners of all backgrounds Entrepreneurs seeking to network with other entrepreneurs and resource partners Everyone who wants to learn about and celebrate the success of Hispanic and Latino small business owners! Attendees will gain a perspective on entrepreneurship in our community that is often overlooked. Together we will learn about challenges that exist and ways these small business owners have worked over, around, or through various obstacles on their way to business success. Moderator Diana Alfaro, Latinx Business Development Manager, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Ms. Alfaro serves the State of Illinois as the chief strategist and advocate for Latin@/e/x and Hispanic owned businesses. She has spent her time at the state supporting and empowering marginalized owned businesses such as minorities, women, persons with disabilities, veterans, Arab/MENA, and LGBTQIA+, positioned with a strong focus on Latin@/e/x and Hispanic owned businesses. Panelists: Several local Hispanic & Latino entrepreneurs sharing their experience. Informal networking reception to follow the discussion. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of our panelists and network with other entrepreneurs and collaborators. Light refreshments will be served. In order to plan refreshments, registration is requested by COB October 1, 2024. Space is limited, register now!