Historic Inaugural Wisconsin Entrepreneurial Legacy Gala to Celebrate Latino Business Excellence in Wisconsin
Image courtesy of the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin.
Milwaukee, WI — The Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin is proud to announce the Inaugural Wisconsin Entrepreneurial Legacy Gala, a historic celebration recognizing the profound contributions of Latino-owned businesses to Wisconsin’s economic, cultural, and entrepreneurial landscape.
This milestone event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Potawatomi Casino Hotel, with an evening of recognition, networking, and cultural celebration. The formal program will be followed by a live performance and dance at 8:00 PM featuring Los Nenes del Lago, a renowned Latin music band.
The Latino community represents the largest ethnic minority in Wisconsin, accounting for 7% of the state’s population and driving the net population growth in Southeastern Wisconsin. According to the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative, Latinos have led the nation in new business creation over the past decade. This gala recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and leadership shaping the future of Wisconsin.
The evening will be guided by distinguished hosts and speakers, including:
- Hon. David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive
- Hon. Cavalier Johnson, Mayor of Milwaukee
- Citlali Mendieta, award-winning restaurateur and community leader
- Diana Gutierrez, Emmy Award-winning journalist and Mistress of Ceremonies
- Dr. Nelson Soler, Titan 100 Wisconsin honoree, entrepreneur, and Master of Ceremonies
Ten outstanding Latino business leaders and pioneers will be honored with Wisconsin Latino Entrepreneurial Legacy Awards:
- Villareal Family, El Rey Foods
- Agustin Ramirez, HUSCO International
- Jaime Hurtado, Insulation Technologies
- Marta Bianchini, Cubanitas
- Jose Sanchez, Sanchez Painting
- Citlali Mendieta, Antigua Latin Inspired Kitchen
- Harry & Annette Santiago, Harry Santiago Insurance Agency
- Victor Huyke, El Conquistador Newspaper
- Luis Barbosa, BMR Architects
- Darryl Morin, Advanced Wireless, Inc.
Innovation Awardees
- Maria Perl, Spar Ops Metal works
- Victor Hernandez, Small Space
- Marina Ilari, Terra Translations
- Manny Ramirez, Mr. Wings
- Anna Gutierrez, Allcon
- Robert Monteagudo, Wisconsin Smiles
- Raul Mendoza, Rapido Talento
“This gala is more than a celebration—it is a declaration that Latino entrepreneurs are central to the present and future of Wisconsin’s economy,” said Dr. Nelson Soler, President & CEO of the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin. “From small businesses to industry leaders, our honorees reflect the resilience, innovation, and legacy of a community that continues to build and inspire.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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