Latino Entrepreneurs: driving Houston’s economy

Latino entrepreneurs in Houston contribute over $54 billion annually to the local economy.

CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce — Photo: Daniel Benet/Heraldo USA.

Houston’s Latino business community plays a vital role across various industries, from construction to technology and logistics services. Laura Murillo, CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, highlights that Latino entrepreneurs are known for their relentless drive and resilience. “Many people have advanced their businesses, and even if they face setbacks, they seek new opportunities and start over,” she says.

In an interview with Heraldo USA, Murillo emphasizes that Houston offers extensive support for entrepreneurs. “It’s a city where it doesn’t matter if you’re an immigrant, born here or elsewhere; Houston is open for business, and the Latino community is recognized for its hard work,” she states.

According to Murillo, Latina women are taking on a fundamental role within this thriving business ecosystem, creating their businesses at three times the rate of other groups. However, they often face a double challenge, balancing multiple roles as mothers, leaders, and workers.

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Challenges to starting a business in Houston

Aware of the difficulties of starting a business in a foreign country, Murillo advises those pursuing the American dream to learn English and understand the U.S. business system. “There are resources in churches and community centers to learn the language and online tools to study finance and service promotion. Sometimes you need to pause and reassess your path, but never lose sight of your goals,” she emphasizes.

While it’s not widely known, Houston is home to numerous Latino millionaires, though their success often goes unrecognized. “Many are busy launching one or two businesses, even reaching global markets through the internet. We strive to share those success stories—people from Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia—who have achieved the American dream despite arriving without language skills,” Murillo points out.

What resources does the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce offer entrepreneurs?

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce supports the success of Latino entrepreneurs in the U.S. through guidance and mentoring. Under the leadership of Laura Murillo, daughter of immigrants from San Luis Potosí, the Chamber has expanded its reach and resources. Operating with a small team of only four, it has achieved significant impact through TV programs, radio, workshops, and conferences in both English and Spanish.

Murillo explains that the goal is to connect Latino entrepreneurs with significant corporations and offer training in finance and promotion. “We want them to do business with one another and continuously thrive so that our community is viewed from a new perspective,” she concludes.