The third annual City of Minneapolis Latino Business Week kicked off on October 3, following an official proclamation from Mayor Jacob Frey. The week brings together Latino entrepreneurs, business owners and community members for a week of events focused on connection, education and opportunity.
“Up and down Lake Street – and all across our community – whether that’s West Broadway, Nicollet, or Central Ave – Latino businesses are helping shape the identity and economic strength of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “Our ask is simple: show up for Latino businesses this week, spend local, and share your experiences. Happy Latino Business Week.”
The week is dedicated to celebrating, recognizing and supporting the contributions of Latino entrepreneurs and businesses in Minneapolis while promoting economic equity. It is funded in part through the City’s Small Business Resiliency Fund which was approved last spring to support small businesses impacted by Operation Metro Surge. The week’s events also advance Minneapolis Forward, the City’s broader initiative to support economic recovery by investing in local businesses and expanding opportunity for entrepreneurs.
“Latino Business Week is a time to tangibly support the businesses and neighbors that are integral pillars of our community,” said City Council President Elliott Payne, Ward 1. “From Central Avenue to Lake Street, these corridors were devastated by the ICE occupation, and it is imperative that we support Latine businesses that have suffered such profound economic and human loss. Our city would simply not be what it is without the Latine businesses and leaders that contribute to the cultural fabric of who we are.”
During Latino Business Week, business owners can access tools, education and connections to help grow their businesses, while residents can support the local businesses that create jobs, build community and help Minneapolis thrive. The City is investing in entrepreneurs by supporting community organizations that provide education, mentorship, networking and other resources to help business owners succeed.
“I am proud to be celebrating the third consecutive year of Latino Business Week, recognizing the Latino businesses that are so vital to our city and who need support from the community,” said Council Member Jason Chavez, Ward 9. “We will not forget the terror of masked agents kidnapping our neighbors, leaving families separated, employees looking out the window in fear, and everyone ready with an evacuation plan. Nor will we forget the terror of having small businesses being forced to close for months, resulting in losses of more than $700 million in the city of Minneapolis alone. Celebrating Latino Business Week serves also as a reminder of all the incredible things being done by our Latino businesses.”
According to the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Minnesota, there are more than 12,000 Latino-owned businesses across the state, speaking to the economic driver that the community provides. Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate in events, connect with community organizations and explore resources that can help them start, grow and sustain their businesses. Residents are also encouraged to support Latino-owned businesses across Minneapolis and discover the many products, services, food, arts and cultural experiences they offer.
“Latino-owned businesses are an important part of our local economy and the vitality of our neighborhoods,” said Erik Hansen, the director of the Community Planning & Economic Development Department (CPED). “When we invest in the entrepreneurs who are creating jobs, building businesses and serving their communities, we are strengthening our local economy for the long term. This week is an opportunity to recognize that impact by connecting business owners with resources and relationships that can help them grow and succeed.”
More information, including direct links to pre-register for certain events, can be found on the Latino Business Week page on the City’s website. The weeklong celebration includes the following events:
- Oct. 6 | 12 – 2 p.m. – When Do You Really Need a Lawyer? – Latino Chamber of Commerce Minnesota, 81 S. 9th St., Suite 200 – Get event details
- Oct. 7 | 4 – 6 p.m. – Our Stories, Our Strength: Learning from Latino Artists and Creative Business Owners – La Doña Cervecería Brewery, 241 Fremont Ave. N. – Get event details
- Oct. 8 | 5 – 8 p.m. – Latinx Business Marketing Mixer – Frida’s Event Venue, 1501 E Lake St – Get event details
- Oct. 10 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. – Latinas in Business: Position for Growth – The Coven Northeast, 2125 E. Hennepin Ave., Suite 200 – Get event details
- Oct. 10 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Cine Latino: Latino Business Pop-Up Market – Historic Main Street, across from The Main Cinema, 115 SE Main St., under the 3rd Ave. Bridge
- Oct. 11 | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Sabores y Colores de Latinoamérica – Mercado Central, 1515 Lake St E.
Read the Mayor’s proclamation
Watch the news conference announcing Latino Business Week