The organization Latino Founders has selected 32 companies for the next cohort of its accelerator program.
While the majority of the companies are from Oregon, founders from Washington, California, Texas and Illinois are also participating, according to a news release from the group.
Latino Founders is a nonprofit launched in 2019 to offer culturally specific support that helps founders develop ideas into sustainable businesses. The group grew out of various events for Latino business owners held over the years.
Last year, the group launched its accelerator. Last month it named one of the group’s co-founders, Juan Barraza as its first executive director.
This year’s accelerator received about 40 applications. Participants will receive coaching on market research, business modeling, finance and legal and market strategies, according to the group.
The participating companies were selected based on their ability to scale in the next five years. The participants work in the software, consumer packaged goods, outdoor and creative industries, among other areas.
The participants include:
- Texas-based AizenFlow, a freight sales and automation platform.
- Portland-based HAB Sauce, a small batch hot sauce and Oregon seaweed chili crisp maker.
- Portland-based Loco por la Aventura, an outdoor group that organizes activities within the Latino community to get more people outdoors and engaged.
- Portland-based The Venderia, which supplies vending machines full of local art and media located inside bars, restaurants and other entertainment venues.
- Chicago-based Hire a Latino, a staffing platform for remote workers.
- Portland-based Solarcycle, which designs 100% off-grid tiny homes.
The accelerator will culminate in a showcase slated for October in Portland. The accelerator is funded by The Oregon Community Foundation Latino Partnership and Thriving Entrepreneurs programs, Prosper Portland and U.S. Bank.
