What is 'Latino Startup Alliance?' 5 Ways It Can Help the Latino Community
Latino Startup Alliance (LSA) aims to help technology ventures spearheaded by U.S. Latino individuals or groups. The organization is comprised of innovators and mentors in the tech and business industry along with investors who support their projects.
LSA was established in 2011 by two entrepreneurs, Jesse and Ed Martinez. One of the main activities the brothers organize for the LSA is the MeetUp, which allows other Latin Americans in their field to network with each other and potentially grow their market and reach.
This year, the next MeetUp will take place on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, which will feature guests from companies like SanDisk Ventures, Qualcomm Ventures, Motorola Solutions Venture Capital, Strategic Venture Relations KDDI, Samsung Ventures and Nokia Growth Partner.
Below are five ways the LSA can help the Latino Community:
1) The LSA fosters a support system for Latinos.
The organization's mission statement states that it exist "to encourage the inspiration and cultivation of Latino led technology startup ventures by providing a strong support network of fellow entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, & mentors." They achieve this mission with the help of more than 700 members and the number is still expected to grow.
2) The LSA boosts Latino technology entrepreneurship.
The organization provides startups the means to kick off their ventures by hooking them up with potential investors and firms. One of the challenges faced by those new in the business is in finding resources and getting that needed exposure.
The LSA has the infrastructure and the data for them to showcase what they can offer. Moreover, it can also work the other way around as investors are sometimes the one tapping the LSA for leads.
3) The LSA is not solely about tech and business.
As the organization grows, other types of Latin American ventures are highlighted too -- like music, entertainment, social media and journalism. The common denominator in these industries is that they all make use of technology and LSA members might just have the idea or product they need.
4) The LSA inspires the community.
Members celebrate and look out for the welfare of one another. They are aware of each other's success stories, which could serve as models and inspirations for other to emulate.
5) The LSA MeetUps strengthen the community.
MeetUps aren't one-time events since there are several meetings that take place during the year. Thus, friendships are also formed beyond partnerships. It is no wonder that the alliance is expanding in the United States.
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