Inaugural conference empowering Latino entrepreneurs set for April 17 in Wenatchee | Columbia Basin

WENATCHEE – In an exciting announcement, the NCW Tech Alliance, in collaboration with the Community for the Advancement of Family Education (CAFE), is set to host the inaugural Día del Fundador Latino (Latino Founder Day). This groundbreaking event, dedicated to uplifting and celebrating Latino entrepreneurs, will be conducted entirely in Spanish. It is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, April 17, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Wenatchee Convention Center, offering a rich program of education, inspiration, and networking opportunities.

Día del Fundador Latino aims to bridge the gap in entrepreneurial support for the Latino community, with a program that includes workshops, expert talks, exhibitors, and consulting services. The focus is on covering essential aspects of business and startup development, such as validation, scalability, and funding. Jenny Rojanasthien of NCW Tech Alliance highlighted the importance of this event, stating, “In 2021, Latino startups received only 2 percent of all US VC funding. Given our vibrant Latino entrepreneurial community, it’s imperative we work to move the needle by providing support that resonates culturally and linguistically.”

The event will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers from across the United States and Mexico, including Sandra Velasquez of Nopalera, who gained recognition on Shark Tank Season 14, Sebastian Garzon, recognized among Texas Top 100 for 2024, and Suleiny Altamirano, the current VP of the Association of Latino Professionals For America. These speakers, among others, bring a wealth of experience and insights, embodying the event’s goal to inspire and guide the next generation of Latino business leaders.

Generously supported by the Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) through a grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce, Chelan County, and Washington Trust Bank, Día del Fundador Latino represents a pivotal moment for Latino entrepreneurship in Washington State.

The event is free to attend, with registration available at ncwtech.org. Participants are also encouraged to extend their networking and learning opportunities by attending the Flywheel Investment Conference, which begins on the evening of April 17 and runs through April 19, with tickets available for $299.

Among the highlighted speakers are individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields:

– Sandra Velasquez, founder of Nopalera, launched her brand in challenging times and successfully secured $2.6 million in seed funding after a notable appearance on Shark Tank.

– Rodrigo Carriedo, CEO of Propio, leverages AI to transform accounting practices, with a background that spans across major financial and policy-making institutions.

– Sebastian Garzon, at the helm of Alamo Angels, has significantly contributed to the angel investment landscape in Texas, supporting over 50 companies.

– Leo Ochoa, founder of Dorsum, combines his passion for design and entrepreneurship to address health and posture-related challenges.

– Ana Sofia Romero, co-founder of Gloset, champions sustainable fashion in Mexico and Latin America, recognizing a unique market need.

– Suleiny Altamirano, with Tizana Mexicana, merges business acumen with a commitment to preserving and promoting Mexican traditions.

Día del Fundador Latino celebrates Latino entrepreneurship and serves as a shinning light of support, empowerment, and inspiration for the Latino community in north central Washington, Washington state and beyond.