The Rise of Latino Entrepreneurship in Pennsylvania

The Latino entrepreneurship scene in Pennsylvania is on the rise, and there are plenty of reasons behind this exciting trend. From personal motivations to a desire for independence, Latino business owners are making their mark in the state. Take Elizabeth Peralta, for example. When her husband had a stroke during the COVID-19 pandemic, she had to leave her job to take care of him. Unable to return to the inflexible work environment of a warehouse, she started her own cleaning business, J&E Cleaning services. Her story is just one of many inspiring tales of Latino entrepreneurship in Pennsylvania. The U.S. Treasury Department reports a 26% increase in self-employed Latino workers from 2019 to 2023, and Census data shows a nearly 50% increase in Hispanic-owned businesses in Pennsylvania from 2012 to 2019. This growth is outpacing non-Hispanic businesses, indicating the strong entrepreneurial spirit within the Latino community. The Small Business Administration has also noted a significant increase in lending to Latino-owned businesses, with loans doubling between 2020 and 2023 in Pennsylvania. This surge in lending is part of a deliberate effort to support small business owners in underserved communities, including Hispanic-owned businesses. The impact of Latino entrepreneurship extends beyond individual success stories. Esmirna Jiménez, an accountant and financial advisor, has observed a surge in clients seeking advice on starting businesses, particularly among undocumented individuals facing challenges in the traditional job market. Jiménez assists her clients in obtaining an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, enabling them to work as independent contractors and contribute to the local economy. The growth of Latino-owned businesses brings diversity and vitality to low-resource, minority economies, benefiting both the business owners and the communities they serve. The entrepreneurial spirit of Latino business owners like Elizabeth Peralta, Jenny Urbano, and Esmirna Jiménez is driving positive change in Pennsylvania, creating opportunities and economic growth while inspiring others to pursue their dreams.