Mexicana Emprende Program helps women grow business acumen

June 4, 2026

Mexican Emprende, a free business education program organized by the Institute for Mexicans Abroad, provides entrepreneurship training to Mexican women living in Michigan and northern Ohio through the Mexican Consulate in Detroit. The fully virtual program guides participants through thirteen business lessons covering financial management, marketing, and strategic planning using an online platform developed by Arizona State University's Thunderbird School of Global Management. Participants receive mentorship, develop comprehensive business plans, and gain access to networking opportunities both during and after the program.

Who is affected

Mexican women entrepreneurs living abroad in Michigan and northern Ohio
Brenda Herrera-Reed, founder of Herrera MD MedSpa in Rochester Hills
Priscilla Sauceda, owner of Baby Time Center in Troy, Michigan
Elena Beltral-Varela, owner of Artesanías ElenitaLinda
Indigenous artisans from Mexico who collaborate with program participants
Children ages 0 to 6 served by participant businesses
Mexican communities in six U.S. states (New York, North Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Michigan)

What action is being taken

The Mexican Consulate in Detroit is running the seventh cohort of Mexican Emprende
Phase 1 is currently underway, with participants completing the DreamBuilder curriculum independently while attending sessions led by consultants
The consulate is providing support to participants as teachers, psychologists, and cheerleaders
Program graduates are being invited to community events and business fairs, including vendor opportunities

Why it matters

This program addresses a critical gap for Mexican women entrepreneurs who have technical or operational expertise but lack knowledge of U.S. business administration, legal requirements, and strategic planning. By providing free, accessible training and ongoing support, the initiative enables women to formalize and expand their businesses, contributing to economic development in their communities. The program's comprehensive approach—combining structured education, personalized mentorship, and long-term networking opportunities—creates sustainable pathways for entrepreneurial success while strengthening connections between Mexican immigrants and their local business ecosystems.

What's next

Participants in the seventh cohort will move to phase 2, which focuses on strengthening areas where they need additional support, including local business regulations and administration
A graduation ceremony will be hosted at the Mexican Consulate in Madison Heights where participants will meet mentors and fellow graduates in person
After graduation, the consulate will continue supporting participants through networking events and business fairs

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com