Grand Junction, Colo. – The Business Incubator Center (BIC) has unveiled a major initiative to better serve Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs. Launched on April 2, “Camino al Éxito” (Path to Success) aims to bridge gaps in business resources and provide essential tools for success in the community.
A Growing Need for Inclusive Business Support
Mesa County is home to a significant Spanish-speaking population, making up 14.5% of residents. For many aspiring business owners, language barriers can present significant hurdles. This new expansion directly addresses those challenges.
Business owners Eric Gill and Sonia Gutierrez, both of whom have firsthand experience with BIC programs, see this as a critical step forward.
“A lot of new Americans and new businesses struggle to learn the business culture here,” said Gill, who owns Strong Branch Learning. “This is a great opportunity.”
Gutierrez, co-owner of Sierra Concrete, emphasized the importance of empowerment. “More than anything, it’s about Latino entrepreneurs losing the fear of trying. If they dream it, it’s possible.”
A Community-Centered Approach
Beyond providing business tools, Camino al Éxito is fostering a sense of community.
“It creates an opportunity for Spanish-speaking individuals to receive resources in a language they feel comfortable with,” said Guadalupe Hirt of the Colorado Small Business Development Center.
Jorge Pantoja, President of the Latino Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of mentorship. “If we’re making mistakes, let’s make new ones and learn from those who have already been through it.”
Key Features of the Expansion
The initiative offers a range of critical resources tailored for Spanish-speaking business owners. Some key benefits include:
- Business education and mentorship in Spanish.
- Access to essential support programs, including the Small Business Development Center and Business Loan Fund.
- A dedicated learning space for entrepreneurs.
- Spanish-speaking expert advisors.
- Both in-person and online training sessions.
Gill and Gutierrez, who have benefited from BIC’s programs, are now giving back by serving as advisors. “We want them to know someone is advocating for them and their business interests,” Gutierrez said.
A Step Toward Economic Growth
For many, this program represents more than just business support—it’s an investment in the broader community.
“It’s been an amazing partnership,” Gill noted. “Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs will be able to hit the ground running.”
Pantoja reinforced the idea that this initiative will benefit everyone. “At the end of the day, it’s not just for the Spanish-speaking community. It’s a win for all of us.”
