58�SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2025�ABASTO.COM By: Ricardo Gaitán and Luz Amparo Ricardo Gómez H ispanic Heritage Month, ce- lebrated in the United States, recognizes the impact that Hispanic communities have had on society and the economy. Tere are more than 4.8 million His- panic-owned businesses in this coun- try, contributing nearly $800 billion annually to the U.S. economy. Of that total, 42% (two million frms) have been created by women. Sofía Vergara, Rea Silva, Ana Flores, María Palacio, Jessica Alba, Patty Ro- dríguez, and Shakira are just seven of the two million Hispanic women en- trepreneurs who generate $175 billion in revenue for the U.S. economy. In addition, they create local emplo- yment opportunities for their com- munities, improving inclusion and transforming leadership models for emerging generations. One of the reasons that has driven women into business is their desire to create opportunities for themselves and their communities. Many see en- trepreneurship as a way to overcome personal obstacles. The Impact of Hispanic Women on the U.S. Economy Te socioeconomic contribution of Hispanic women entrepreneurs ran- ges from participation in the workfor- ce and entrepreneurship to the eco- nomic growth of the nation that gave them an opportunity. Most companies founded by Latina women are in areas such as beauty, fashion, childcare, media, consumer goods, agriculture, consumer services, and fnance, among other sectors. In general, a small business owned by Hispanics in the U.S. has eight em- ployees, compared to 12 workers in non-Hispanic companies. According to Stanford’s 2023 re- search, most Latino companies are small, with more than 90% employing fewer than 20 people. Successful Business women Sofía Vergara One of the highest-paid Colom- bian actresses in the U.S., she is an active investor. She created the cosmetics brand “Toty” and another company that donates a percentage of its profts to low-income women entrepre- neurs. Rea Silva Of Mexican descent, she created the “Beautyblender” sponge, which revolutionized makeup application, promoting inclusion and diversity in the beauty industry. Ana Flores Originally from El Salvador, she is the founder of “Todos Cree- mos” (‘WeAllGrow’), a media outlet providing resources and opportunities for women in va- rious industries. María Palacio Of Colombian origin, she co-founded “Progeny Cofee,” a company focused on direct trade practices that strengthen cofee communities. Jessica Alba Of Mexican American descent, she founded Te Honest Com- pany, a company dedicated to hygiene, cleaning, and baby care products. Patty Rodríguez and Arian Stein Tey established Lil’ Libros, a company dedicated to produ- cing bilingual children’s books that celebrate Latin culture and promote literacy. Shakira A few weeks ago, she launched her hair care line, “isima.” Te Colombian artist describes her brand as a tribute to her Latin roots and female strength. FOOD INDUSTRY