Organization
Prospera is the largest statewide nonprofit in Florida specializing in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs who are trying to establish or expand their businesses.
Through an approach of empowerment, the company offers training, consulting, grants and access to capital all free of charge. It’s attentiveness to the individual growth and prosperity of small and larger Hispanic businesses has made it receive longtime investments by corporations like Telemundo TV, individuals and government agencies. In its last fiscal year, the company trained 4,729 entrepreneurs and helped clients create/retain 3,115 across Florida.
Prospera is the largest statewide nonprofit in Florida specializing in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs who are trying to establish or expand their businesses.
Through an approach of empowerment, the company offers training, consulting, grants and access to capital all free of charge. It’s attentiveness to the individual growth and prosperity of small and larger Hispanic businesses has made it receive longtime investments by corporations like Telemundo TV, individuals and government agencies. In its last fiscal year, the company trained 4,729 entrepreneurs and helped clients create/retain 3,115 across Florida.
Profile
Born within the Hispanic Business Institute in Tampa, the Hispanic Business Initiative (HBIF) was established to help Hispanic entrepreneurs develop and compete with mainstream businesses. Although the company changed its brand to Prospera, its business model continues to succeed and is valued by more clients each year. After recovering data from a growing Hispanic population in 2016, it began delivering services to entrepreneurs in Charlotte, North Carolina and established a permanent office and staff there in July 2017. Any Prospera client receives assistance from in-house business consultants, workshop presenters and volunteers from various industries who serve on advisory committees. The company also offers access to a network of financial institutions, corporate sponsors, and government funders that have a desire to support small and minority-owned businesses. With a growing demand and an understanding of recent demographics, Prospera is now looking to establish offices in St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
Awards & Accolades
First Hispanic nonprofit organization selected in Central Florida as the Bank of America 2012 Neighborhood Builder
Core values/mission statement
"To strengthen the economy through quality business development and training to Hispanic entrepreneurs." Organizational Values: Integrity, Achievement, Stewardship, Empathy, Teamwork, Community
Company Leadership
Regional Vice President - West Coast
Fabian Yépez became the Regional Vice President for the West Coast of Florida in June 2016. With over 20 years of experience as a Multicultural Marketing Strategist and a background in Advertising and Marketing, he has helped Prospera connect with a diverse Hispanic market. His understanding of the Latin culture makes him connect brands through emotions and authenticity. He's a past Chairman of Prospera’s Technical Assistance Committee, and currently serves on the boards for Florida Soccer Club and the Dad’s Club at Jesuit High School.
