Empowering Latino Entrepreneurs: IMPÚLSATE Program

El Centro is proud to highlight the success of IMPÚLSATE, a free, intensive 7-week accelerator program in Spanish designed to equip Latino entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to build scalable and sustainable businesses.

Supported by Capital One, the program combines interactive classes and personalized one-on-one business coaching, focusing on practical skills such as business registration, digital marketing, accounting, and access to capital. 

The initiative is breaking barriers for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Greater New Orleans area by providing education in their native language and connecting them with trusted local resources.

“I’ve learned to better organize my business,” said Mariano Alvarado, owner of VILU Consulting, at the Impulsate graduation ceremony.

This Fall 2025, El Centro proudly celebrated the graduation of its 8th IMPÚLSATE cohort with more than 25 students—a significant milestone for participants who have worked diligently to formalize their businesses, expand their client networks, and build long-term growth strategies. 

“It was exciting to witness such a diverse group of entrepreneurs this year. Participants ranged from electricians to those launching hair care product lines and providing special needs day/night care. Our entrepreneurs will be equipped to hit the ground running, truly creating opportunities not only for themselves but for the communities they serve.” Lindsey Navarro, founder and executive director of El Centro, says. 

As a result of this course, three students were able to register their business, five students obtained their occupational license, and three entrepreneurs began collecting and remitting sales taxes. Their success represents not only personal achievement but also a collective step forward for the Latino business community in New Orleans.

Beyond just training, the program delivers value in community impact — empowering local business owners to strengthen their operations and contribute to the regional economy.

Graduation is the beginning of an ongoing relationship with program participants. Graduates are encouraged to participate in bi-annual roundtables and to complete 6-month and 1-year surveys to ensure El Centro is able to gauge the impact of programming.
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Interested in supporting this initiative?

• Contact us at [email protected] or 504.503.2371 
• Visit elcentrola.org/donate ​