On October 17, 2024, the Second Annual Latina Entrepreneurship Conference took place in Houston’s historic East End, drawing over 200 Latina small business owners. The one-day event celebrated Latina entrepreneurs in Texas and provided resources to support their ongoing success. As one of the largest Latina metropolitan areas in the U.S., Houston was the ideal location for the conference, which underscored the important role Latina-owned businesses play in the state’s economy.

The event, organized by the Amigas Latinas & Friends Network, a Houston-based nonprofit, aimed to raise awareness about the economic contributions of Latina-founded and led businesses while equipping participants with tools for success. Resources such as financial literacy education, personal development strategies, marketing techniques, and networking opportunities were available to help entrepreneurs overcome the unique challenges they face.

Anjelica Cazares, founder and organizer of the conference, highlighted the importance of supporting Latina entrepreneurs, emphasizing the removal of barriers for women at all levels. “Latinas are leading the charge when it comes to starting and growing successful businesses in Texas and across the country,” said Cazares. “But we face unique challenges that require a certain level of cultural understanding to meet our needs.”

The Amigas Latinas & Friends Network was created to serve the community of women connected through Cazares' national Latina Leadership Podcast. The organization’s mission is to remove barriers for all women, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, and pay equity. The conference serves as a key annual event to support Latina business owners throughout the year.

The conference featured keynote speakers, expert panels, and roundtable discussions on critical business topics, such as accessing capital, improving marketing strategies, and managing business growth. Major sponsors included Walmart, Kroger, Pfizer, Comcast, and Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, all of which played significant roles in supporting the event. Representatives from the Small Business Administration Houston Office and local nonprofits also participated, offering resources and advice to attendees.

In addition to the in-person networking and educational sessions, the event reached a broader audience by live-streaming portions online, allowing those who could not attend to benefit from the discussions and insights.

Cazares stressed the need for ongoing support for Latina entrepreneurs, noting that while many have achieved significant success, disparities in access to capital, networking opportunities, and pay equity remain. “Latinas are creating economic value at incredible rates, but we must also acknowledge the disparities they face. By bringing Latina entrepreneurs together with industry leaders and community resources, we are building a network of support to address these issues,” she said.

The event concluded with attendees leaving empowered and equipped with new strategies and connections. It was not only a day of learning but a celebration of the resilience, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of Latinas in Texas. The Latina Entrepreneurship Conference continues to be a crucial platform for fostering business growth, empowering women, and supporting Latina entrepreneurs across Texas and beyond.