The 15 Super Successful Hispanic Entrepreneurs
Let’s talk about some seriously impressive Hispanic entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable success. They’re proof that hard work, determination, and creativity can take you to great heights. So, buckle up and get ready to be inspired by these amazing individuals!
1. Gina Rodriguez: She’s not just a talented actress, but also the founder of a production company called I Can and I Will Productions. Talk about multi-talented!
2. Salvador Victoria: If you’ve ever enjoyed a delicious cup of Joe at Guelaguetza, you have this man to thank. He started the famous Los Angeles-based Oaxacan restaurant and made it a huge success.
3. Constanza Gutierrez: This incredible entrepreneur founded Plaza Mexico, a shopping center that celebrates Mexican culture and has become a vibrant hub in California.
4. Mario Moreno: You might know him better as Cantinflas, one of Mexico’s most beloved comedians. Despite facing many obstacles, he managed to build a successful career in the entertainment industry.
5. Cristina López: She’s the mastermind behind Lopez Negrete Communications, a leading Hispanic advertising agency that has won numerous awards.
6. Sylvia Acevedo: From rocket scientist to CEO, Sylvia has achieved extraordinary things. She’s the head of the Girl Scouts of the USA and has inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams.
7. Marcos Galperin: Ever shopped on MercadoLibre? It’s all thanks to Marcos, the founder of Latin America’s largest e-commerce platform.
8. Maria Contreras-Sweet: As the former Administrator of the Small Business Administration, Maria had a significant impact on small businesses across the United States.
9. Jose Tigre Quiroga: This innovative entrepreneur created Los Tigres del Norte, a legendary Mexican music group that has captivated audiences worldwide.
10. Isabel Allende: She’s not only a bestselling author but also a powerful advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Isabel’s words have touched the hearts of millions.
11. Roberto Orci: You might recognize his name from blockbuster films like Star Trek and Transformers. Roberto’s creative genius has made him one of Hollywood’s top screenwriters and producers.
12. Julia Alvarez: A gifted writer, Julia has penned beautiful novels that explore themes of identity and culture, making her a prominent figure in Latino literature.
13. Nina Vaca: As the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Group, Nina has shattered glass ceilings and turned her IT staffing company into a major success story.
14. Raúl Alarcón Jr.: This media mogul is the CEO of Spanish Broadcasting System, a company that brings Latin music and culture to the masses through its radio stations.
15. María Elena Durazo: A powerful advocate for workers’ rights, María has fought tirelessly as a labor union leader and champion for Latino communities.
These incredible entrepreneurs have not only made a name for themselves but have also paved the way for future generations. They remind us that with determination and a creative spirit, anything is possible. So, let’s celebrate their accomplishments and get inspired to chase our own dreams!
I’m amazed by the number of successful Hispanic entrepreneurs that have emerged in the modern era. It’s predicted that by 2060, 1 in every 3 Americans will be Hispanic, which means there will be even more thriving Hispanic entrepreneurs in the future.
Contents
- 1 Incredible Hispanic Entrepreneurs
- 1.1 Alberto ‘Beto’ Perez (Zumba Fitness)
- 1.2 Jorge Perez: Transforming South Florida’s Skyline
- 1.3 Tony Jimenez (MicroTech)
- 1.4 Maria Contreras-Sweet (ProAmerica Bank)
- 1.5 The Amazing Story of Jordi Munoz and 3D Robotics
- 1.6 Sofia Vergara: A Multifaceted Star
- 1.7 Rea Ann Silva (Cosmetics)
- 1.8 Geisha Williams: A Trailblazer in the Energy Industry
- 1.9 Let me tell you about Adriana Cisneros, a remarkable woman in the media industry.
- 1.10 Jessica Alba (Beauty Care)
- 1.11 Let me tell you about Pete Maldonado and his work in the Food and Beverage sector.
Incredible Hispanic Entrepreneurs
Let me introduce you to 16 remarkable Hispanic entrepreneurs in the United States who have made a lasting impact in their industries.
Alberto ‘Beto’ Perez (Zumba Fitness)
- Have you heard of Alberto ‘Beto’ Perez? He’s an incredible innovator in the fitness industry who changed the game with Zumba Fitness in 2001. Perez was born and raised in Colombia and started off as a regular aerobics instructor.
During my time in America, I had a desire to try something new and different. This is when I decided to combine elements of dance with my aerobics classes, which ultimately became the foundation for Zumba. Over the years, Zumba Fitness has become incredibly popular worldwide.
Zumba is not just your typical exercise routine. It’s a unique blend of dance and fitness that is not only enjoyable but also an effective way to stay in shape. This combination has garnered a huge following of enthusiastic supporters.
Today, you can find Zumba Fitness classes in an astonishing 200,000 locations across over 180 countries. It’s incredible how this fitness phenomenon has spread globally.
To put things into perspective, approximately 15 million people currently participate in Zumba Fitness classes. This massive number demonstrates the extraordinary success and widespread popularity of my innovation.
Cultural fusion can be a game-changer when it comes to business innovation. It’s all about combining different cultures to create something new and exciting. Take Perez, for example. His story shows us just how powerful this can be.
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, Love what you do, and success will follow. Well, Perez embodies that idea perfectly. He’s not just in it for the money – he’s driven by his passion and creativity. And that’s what sets him apart as an entrepreneur.
When Perez started his business, he wanted to do something different, something that celebrated his own cultural background. He saw an opportunity to merge his heritage with modern business, and he went for it. And you know what? It paid off in a big way.
Now, Perez’s success story is inspiring others to think outside the box. People are realizing that their own cultural experiences and traditions can be the perfect foundation for a successful business. It’s a reminder that our differences are something to celebrate, not hide.
So, if you’ve got a culturally rich business idea, don’t be afraid to go for it. Embrace your heritage, let your passion shine through, and who knows? You might just change the game like Perez did.
Jorge Perez: Transforming South Florida’s Skyline
I’m Jorge Perez, and let me tell you about my journey of transforming South Florida’s skyline. It’s truly amazing how strategic pivoting can make a huge impact on business. You see, I started off with affordable housing, but then I realized that there was so much potential in the luxury condominium market.
- So, here’s the scoop: I was born in Argentina and came to the United States in 1968 right after finishing high school. Miami became my new home, and I knew I wanted to build something big.
- That’s when I teamed up with a New York developer named Stephen Ross, and together we founded The Related Group. At first, our focus was on affordable housing because that’s what the market needed. But as Miami’s real estate market started shifting, we knew we had to adapt.
- Carlos Castro (Todos Supermarket)
Let me tell you about Carlos Castro and his amazing journey with Todos Supermarket. Carlos, originally from El Salvador, had a brilliant idea back in 1990. He decided to create the very first supermarket chain in the Washington D.C. area that would specifically cater to Latino shoppers.
I moved my whole family to the United States, found a much-needed business opportunity, and started my own business. This showed how determined I was to succeed, even when faced with challenges.
My journey as an entrepreneur highlights the importance of focusing on the needs of the community and serving niche markets.
Now let’s talk about Marcelo Claure, the founder of BrightStar and CEO of Sprint. His transition from running BrightStar to leading Sprint demonstrates his deep knowledge of telecommunications and his strategic business skills. His leadership has had a huge impact on the company’s growth and the industry as a whole.
Marcelo Claure is highly respected in the telecommunications industry. Though he is best known as the CEO of Sprint, he first showed his entrepreneurial spirit when he started BrightStar, a company that distributes mobile devices.
- Wow! BrightStar has become incredibly successful! They now work with over 200 carriers in 50 different countries and make more than $7 billion every year.
- Claure’s story shows us how important it is to be innovative and make smart plans for business growth.
Claure’s success teaches us that there are big chances for success in the technology field. It also shows us how important it is to be innovative and have a strong leader.
Tony Jimenez (MicroTech)
Let me tell you about Tony Jimenez. He’s quite an impressive person. After serving in the military for 24 years and even experiencing combat, Tony decided to become an entrepreneur. He had gained extensive knowledge and skills while working with the Department of Defense, facing a variety of challenges in transforming different platforms. Inspired by this experience, Tony founded MicroTech.
MicroTech is a company that specializes in solving complex IT problems for both government and private sector clients. They are currently engaged in more than a hundred Federal projects, which demonstrates Tony’s ability to apply his military background to tackle critical technical issues on a large scale.
Tony’s story teaches us an important lesson. It shows us how valuable it is to draw on our unique experiences to find solutions to problems specific to our industry. It also highlights the significance of diversity in entrepreneurship.
Maria Contreras-Sweet (ProAmerica Bank)
Now let me introduce you to Maria Contreras-Sweet. She’s an extraordinary woman who has made her mark in the business world. Maria is the founder of ProAmerica Bank.
ProAmerica Bank specializes in providing banking services to the community. They aim to help individuals and businesses prosper by offering financial solutions tailored to their needs. Maria’s passion for supporting the community and promoting economic growth is what inspired her to establish this bank.
Through her leadership, ProAmerica Bank has become a trusted institution that people can rely on. Maria’s dedication and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others is truly commendable.
Maria’s journey reminds us that with determination and a desire to help others, we can create opportunities and make a difference in our communities.
Both Tony Jimenez and Maria Contreras-Sweet show us that by harnessing our unique experiences and combining them with our passions, we have the power to overcome challenges and achieve great things.
I rode the wave of my significant achievement and took my entrepreneurial endeavors to new heights with the launch of Contreras-Sweet Enterprises. This company specializes in marketing and research solutions, helping businesses grow and thrive.
Impressively, Contreras-Sweet Enterprises boasts a prestigious list of clients, including big-name corporations such as Pacific Gas and Electric Company, the Walt Disney estate, and Coca-Cola. This diverse range of clients showcases the wide-reaching influence and impact of my work.
My achievements not only highlight the importance of entrepreneurial ventures in community development but also emphasize the significance of representation in the finance industry.
Now, let’s shift our focus to another notable entrepreneur – Matias De Tezanos of AutoWeb. As the CEO of AutoWeb.com, he stands out as a serial entrepreneur with a unique pay-per-click marketing network designed specifically for automobile dealers and manufacturers. Through his innovative platform, Matias De Tezanos helps businesses in the automotive industry connect with their customers and drive success.
Let me tell you about some incredible entrepreneurs who have made a big impact with their innovative ideas and business skills.
- First, there’s a man named Juan De Tezanos. He’s not just a successful businessman, he’s also a visionary. You see, he didn’t stop at creating AutoWeb, a popular car-buying website. He went on to create Hoteles.com, a hotel reservation site made specifically for Spanish speakers. And that’s not all! He also started ClickDiario.com, an online advertising network. His ability to come up with new and exciting ventures shows just how innovative he is.
- Another entrepreneur who has made a name for herself is Martha De La Torre. Back in 1988, she took a big step by founding El Clasificado, a directory of classified ads targeting Latino immigrants. This was a big deal, because she saw a need in the market and went for it. It wasn’t easy for her, but she never gave up. Instead, she worked hard and made her business a success.
These entrepreneurs show us the power of thinking outside the box and seizing opportunities in the ever-changing online world. Their journeys inspire us to be innovative and never give up on our dreams.
As I started my own business, I had to handle additional consulting jobs to keep it going. This shows how determined entrepreneurs need to be. To help me manage everything, I came up with a clever idea and hired talented students from a neighboring high school.
I started our company’s website in 1996, and it’s amazing to see that we now get around 24 million page views every month. This really proves how many people find our content valuable and relevant.
My story highlights how important the media is in reaching specific communities and how focusing on a specific niche in the market can lead to successful entrepreneurship.
The Amazing Story of Jordi Munoz and 3D Robotics
Hi there, I want to tell you about Jordi Munoz, the co-founder of 3D Robotics. He’s a really smart and creative guy who loves building drones. His company has become very successful and popular because people are really excited about the new technology they create.
- Jordi Munoz is originally from Tijuana, Mexico. In 2007, he moved to the United States and that’s when his incredible journey began. One day, he did something amazing – he figured out how to make a drone fly all by itself! He used his skills and knowledge to hack the sensors of his Nintendo Wii controller and make it control a drone. It was the first-ever auto-piloted drone, and everyone was amazed by it.
- Word quickly spread about Jordi’s invention. He shared a video of his creation online, and people went crazy for it! They couldn’t believe what he had accomplished. His unique talent made him very popular, and everyone wanted to work with him.
- Now, Jordi’s company, 3D Robotics, is a big success. They have been able to raise almost $159 million in venture capital funding. This shows that many people believe in their technology and they see a big future for it. It’s really exciting to see how far Jordi has come and what he has achieved.
Sofia Vergara: A Multifaceted Star
Let me tell you about Sofia Vergara, a remarkable woman who has not only conquered the entertainment world but also dived into the world of business. She’s done it all in media, fashion, and beauty, showcasing her incredible versatility and business know-how.
- First things first, Sofia Vergara is a force to be reckoned with, in both the entertainment industry and the world of entrepreneurship. Originally from Colombia, she gained worldwide fame by starring in the beloved sitcom ‘Modern Family.’ Can you imagine?
- But guess what? Acting is just one of her many talents. In fact, in 2019, she secured the second spot on the list of the World’s Highest-Paid Actresses, raking in a jaw-dropping $44.1 million. Pretty impressive, right? Yet, her ambitions go beyond the silver screen. Sofia co-founded a thriving media and talent agency called Latino World Entertainment, making a significant impact in the industry.
- I’ve taken on numerous endorsement deals in both English and Spanish markets, which has significantly contributed to my earnings. I’m always looking for new opportunities to showcase my entrepreneurial drive.
- Not only am I an actress, but I’ve also ventured into the fashion industry with my own denim brand called Sofía Jeans by Sofía Vergara. I’ve even launched a fragrance line and introduced a furniture line called Rooms to Go. I always strive to expand my influence and demonstrate my versatility and business skills.
- These various ventures showcase my ability to succeed in different industries and highlight my business acumen. I enjoy exploring new opportunities and making the most out of my entrepreneurial spirit.
My success as an entrepreneur emphasizes the importance of personal branding and cross-industry ventures. By leveraging my fame, I’ve been able to create successful business enterprises, which can serve as a model for others.
Rea Ann Silva (Cosmetics)
I’m a makeup artist, and let me tell you, Rea Ann Silva changed the makeup game when she invented the Beautyblender. This incredible sponge was launched back in 2002 and has revolutionized foundation application. The best part? It’s designed to give you a flawless, even finish every time, thanks to its unique edgeless shape.
As soon as Silva introduced the Beautyblender, it took off like wildfire. People couldn’t get enough of it, and it gave her the perfect platform to expand her product line. In fact, she even launched her own foundation line in 2018 called ‘Bounce’, which offers an impressive range of 40 shades. That’s real diversity!
The Beautyblender has become a favorite among celebrities too. Big names like Kim Kardashian West and Heidi Klum swear by it. With over 50 million units sold to date, it’s clear that Silva’s invention has made a lasting impact.
And the success just keeps coming. Silva’s company is projected to make an astounding $215 million in retail sales this year alone. It’s a true testament to her entrepreneurial vision and innovative mindset.
So, if you’re looking for a makeup tool that will give you a flawless finish, look no further than the Beautyblender. It’s a game-changer, and Rea Ann Silva is the genius behind it all.
I want to share with you the incredible success story of Silva. It really shows how amazing products can completely change an entire industry. And it also reminds us just how important it is to find and fill those gaps in the market.
Geisha Williams: A Trailblazer in the Energy Industry
Hi there! My name is Geisha Williams, and I’m the CEO and President of PGE, one of the largest energy companies in the United States. I’m proud to say that I made history as the first Latina to lead a Fortune 500 company. But that’s not all!
Ever since I joined PGE, I’ve been working hard to make sure we’re moving towards a more sustainable future. In fact, we’ve been able to source almost 33% of our energy from renewable sources. This means that we’re reducing our environmental impact and doing our part to protect the planet.
But that’s not the only thing we’ve been up to under my leadership. We’ve also become leaders in integrating renewables, modernizing grids, and using smart-grid technologies. This allows us to make our energy systems more efficient and reliable while also reducing our carbon footprint.
And despite all of these major changes, we’ve managed to maintain our high standard of service. In fact, during my time at PGE, we achieved the best electric reliability in our history. This means that you can always count on us to provide you with the energy you need, when you need it.
I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished at PGE, and I’m excited to continue leading the way towards a greener and more sustainable energy future. Together, we can make a difference!
My time at PGE has shown me just how important it is for corporate leaders to prioritize environmental responsibility. It’s a role that is becoming increasingly significant, especially in industries that have been traditionally male-dominated. What I’ve learned is that diverse leaders, like myself, have the potential to make a real impact.
Let me tell you about Adriana Cisneros, a remarkable woman in the media industry.
- Adriana Cisneros is someone you definitely want to know about. She’s the CEO of Cisneros, a family-owned business that has its hands in media, digital and interactive, and real estate sectors.
- But that’s not all! Adriana is also the President of Fundación Cisneros, a non-profit organization with a mission to improve education in Latin America.
- Not only is she successful in her main business, but she also plays a big role in different organizations. She co-chairs Endeavor Miami, where she helps guide and lead the group. She’s also a director and executive committee member of the International Academy of Television Arts Sciences, which means she helps make important decisions about television. In addition, she’s a trustee of the Paley Center for Media, where she helps manage the center’s activities. Finally, she’s a board member of many important organizations, including the Knight Foundation and the University of Miami.
All of these different roles show how Cisneros’s career is varied and has a big impact on different areas of society.
Jessica Alba (Beauty Care)
Jessica Alba, known for her acting career, also started a company called The Honest Company. This company makes safe and effective products that people can trust. Jessica Alba also works to make sure that consumer products are healthy and safe for everyone to use.
- I am Alba, the founder of The Honest Company and Honest Beauty. I am proud to say that we have created a wide range of more than 101 safe and effective products for baby care, personal care, and cleaning.
- My journey as an entrepreneur is very much connected to my belief in the importance of living in a safe and healthy way. I wrote a bestselling book called The Honest Life, where I share this vision with others.
- I am honored to have been recognized as one of the top twenty most creative people in business by Fast Company, as well as one of Fortune’s 10 most powerful women entrepreneurs.
- At The Honest Company, we are committed to giving back through our Honest to Goodness program. We have donated over twelve million products and our employees have dedicated 15,000 hours to making a positive impact in our communities.
When I think about Alba’s transition into entrepreneurship, it really shows how celebrities can use their influence to do good for society and succeed in business. This is especially true in the health and wellness industry.
Let me tell you about Pete Maldonado and his work in the Food and Beverage sector.
- Pete Maldonado is a co-founder of Chomps, a company based in Florida that has completely changed the game when it comes to healthy snacks. They specialize in making meat snacks that are all-natural.
- What’s amazing about Chomps is that they offer a wide variety of products that cater to different dietary preferences and needs. They have beef jerky sticks that are paleo-friendly, gluten-free, Whole30-approved, and made with non-GMO ingredients.
- Maldonado is currently the CEO of Chomps, and he’s the one guiding the company’s strategy and growth. Chomps was launched in 2012, and it quickly gained a reputation for its top-notch quality and innovative approach.
- The incredible progress I made was all thanks to an unbelievable 4,400% increase in revenue over the span of three years. Can you believe it? In 2018 alone, I managed to earn a jaw-dropping $21 million. This impressive growth and consistent success really go to show how effective my leadership skills and entrepreneurial abilities are.
Let me tell you, my accomplishments with Chomps really shine a light on the fact that more and more people are looking for healthier food options. There’s a real demand for it, and it’s exciting to think about all the innovative possibilities in the food and beverage industry.
Check this out! I want to show you all the amazing things that Hispanic entrepreneurs are doing in the U.S. right now. They have got so much talent and ambition, it’s truly inspiring!