According to the 2026 U.S. Latino Economic Impact Report from the Latino Donor Collaborative, U.S. Latinos contributed $4.4 trillion to the nation's economy in 2024. The report, developed with research from the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, indicates that the Latino economy expanded at an annual rate of 5.4% from 2019 to 2024, surpassing the overall U.S. economy's growth rate of 2.4%.
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Despite representing about one-fifth of the U.S. population, Latinos accounted for 28.2% of the nation’s economic growth in 2024. This growth is attributed to factors such as a younger Latino demographic, increased workforce participation, and entrepreneurial activity. Latinos comprised approximately two-thirds of the growth in the U.S. working-age population during this period.
The report also highlights that Latino household spending reached $2.8 trillion in 2024. In North Las Vegas, several Latina entrepreneurs are contributing to this economic trend.
Ixela Gutierrez, owner of Gutic Enterprises, draws from over 30 years of cultural tradition, helping people learn and perform dances from Latin America. Lily Tejada operates Vida Fitness, focusing on empowering women to transform their lives through fitness. Kristell Ortega started her business, Kunku, to raise awareness about autism while creating specialized furniture for children on the spectrum. Mayani Grey, owner of Dominican Beauty Salon, attributes her growth to networking events that have provided her with essential business skills.
These women met through "Conectando con Cafecito," a monthly networking event at the University of Nevada, Reno Extension office in North Las Vegas. This gathering allows Latina entrepreneurs to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Grey expressed pride in being part of a movement that recognizes the opportunities for Latinos in America to become business owners.
Gutierrez emphasized the strong work ethic within the Latino community, stating that Latino entrepreneurs not only establish businesses but also contribute to local employment and economic stability. For these four entrepreneurs, their efforts aim to create opportunities for future generations.