Las Vegas – UNR Extension Ignites Latino Business Growth Through Targeted Training

Cafecito Breakfast Sparks Transformative Journeys (Image Credits: Unsplash)

University of Nevada, Reno Extension has emerged as a vital resource for Latino entrepreneurs navigating the competitive Las Vegas market.[1]

Cafecito Breakfast Sparks Transformative Journeys

A simple invitation to a monthly networking event changed everything for Lizbett Salazar. She attended “Cafecito,” UNR Extension’s gathering for Hispanic business owners, and promptly enrolled in the organization’s 10-week Business 101 course.[1][2]

Salazar, CEO of Tiger Marketing Solutions, a B2B consulting firm that partners with companies like Sprouts on organic product distribution, discovered local government resources she previously overlooked. The class connected her with peers who offered feedback on her website and logo. Previously, she had launched two ventures without such support. Now, she prepares to transition to full-time entrepreneurship.[1]

“It helped me out, because this time I went and opened this business, but now with all the tools that I needed,” Salazar said.[1]

Hands-On Curriculum Meets Real-World Needs

The Small Business Education Program, now seven years strong, delivers practical workshops in English and Spanish from offices in North Las Vegas and Paradise. Participants learn fundamentals like digital marketing, social media, and e-commerce – skills essential for older entrepreneurs over 40 entering the field.[1]

Reyna Mendez, the North Las Vegas-based coordinator, tailors content for the Hispanic community, including a small-business incubator. Classes emphasize execution over theory, guiding attendees through business launches step by step. Partnerships with banks and chambers of commerce provide access to capital and networks. Mendez noted the popularity of fully Spanish-language sessions among bilingual women.[1]

• 10-week Business 101 course, available in Spanish
• Monthly Cafecito networking breakfasts
• Focus on digital tools and resource navigation
• Connections to local economic development programs
• Small-business incubator for ongoing support

Addressing Gaps in Nevada’s Tourism Economy

Las Vegas’s tourism-driven economy creates unique demands that UNR Extension addresses head-on. Coordinators highlight opportunities in underserved sectors while helping owners identify state-specific needs. Chris Markl, who oversees community and economic development, stressed the program’s role in life-changing income boosts.[1]

“How do we help them create a new income source or grow their income to really change their lives?” Markl asked. Many participants arrive with ideas but lack execution strategies. The initiative counters this by fostering community uplift, particularly in the Hispanic sector where new businesses proliferate. Salazar echoed this: “It helps our community… more businesses are open and (if) they get the help on how to succeed, it will help the whole economy.”[1]

Expansion Horizons Beyond Clark County

Program leaders envision broader reach, especially to rural Nevada where stable jobs remain scarce. Virtual formats for Business 101 and the incubator will enable statewide access. Markl emphasized scalability: “Entrepreneurship is the most natural avenue” for skilled individuals.[1]

This growth aligns with UNR Extension’s mission under the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources. An extra $1,000 monthly income represents profound impact for families. Sustained partnerships ensure resources flow to those building sustainable ventures.

UNR Extension’s efforts demonstrate how targeted education turns entrepreneurial ambition into tangible success in Las Vegas. As the program evolves, it promises to reshape local economies from the ground up. What impact have similar initiatives had in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments.