The Power of Comunidad for Latina Entrepreneurs
In the world of entrepreneurship, success is rarely a solo endeavor. For Latina entrepreneurs, the path to business growth can be especially complex, as they often face unique challenges—whether it’s navigating the lack of representation, cultural barriers, or accessing the right resources. That’s why comunidad (community) plays such a powerful role in the journey.
My business wouldn’t be what it is today without the power of community. My first experience of true community came when I built a network for women songwriters back in 2016, which eventually became a nonprofit organization I led until 2020. During this transition, I co-created The Mujerista Network, my first time being part of a community filled with Latina creatives and entrepreneurs. This experience inspired me to write Jefa in Training and ultimately fueled the creation of the Jefa in Training Circle.
Every milestone I’ve achieved has stemmed from the support and connections in these communities. Collaborations have been key, and supporting fellow Latinas is essential to building our collective power and growing our ecosystems. In many industries, we still lack representation, and people are often reluctant to support us with their dollars or connections. That’s why it’s up to us to bridge the gap and create opportunities for each other.
Why Comunidad Matters for Latina Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey, especially when the networks available don’t reflect your background or experience. For Latinas, community is more than just a support system—it’s a space where cultural values and shared experiences bring a deeper level of connection. Here are some reasons why joining a community is crucial:
Access to Mentorship and Guidance
Finding mentors who understand the unique challenges Latina entrepreneurs face—whether it’s balancing cultural expectations with business goals or navigating predominantly male or non-Latino industries—can provide life-changing guidance. In a community like the Jefa in Training Circle, you’ll have direct access to mentors who have walked similar paths and can help you avoid common pitfalls.
Collaboration Over Competition
In many spaces, competition is the norm. However, comunidad fosters a spirit of collaboration where members uplift each other instead of competing. This collaborative mindset allows Latina entrepreneurs to share resources, offer mutual support, and create partnerships that can take their businesses to new heights.
Limited Access and Narrow Networks
Despite their impressive growth, 72% of Latina entrepreneurs rely solely on friends and family to support their businesses. While this highlights the strength of cultural networks, it also underscores the limited access to broader financial and mentoring resources that are vital for scaling a business. A strong community like the Jefa in Training Circle can bridge this gap, offering professional support beyond close-knit personal networks.
The Importance of Expanding Support).
Latina entrepreneurs are on the rise, with Latina-owned businesses increasing by 87% between 2007 and 2019. But to fully tap into their potential, they need access to resources that go beyond financial aid, such as mentorship, strategic advice, and collaborative partnerships. A community not only provides those essential resources but also helps Latinas scale their businesses and unlock new opportunities.
Conclusion: Take the Next Step
The road to entrepreneurial success can be difficult to navigate, but with the power of comunidad, you don’t have to do it alone. The Jefa in Training Circle exists for this reason, but it’s just one of the many blossoming communities designed to equip Latina leaders with the tools, resources, and support they need to grow. By joining a community of like-minded Latina entrepreneurs and changemakers, you gain more than just support—you gain access to a network that will help you grow, collaborate, and thrive.
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