The Power of Boricua Entrepreneurship: Why We Must Build Our Own

Introduction:

The Need for Boricua Economic Power

Puerto Ricans have a rich history of resilience, creativity, and determination. From the mountains of Jayuya to the streets of New York City, our people have continuously found ways to survive and thrive. But survival is not enough—we need to own, build, and control our own economic destiny.

For too long, Boricuas have been seen as workers instead of owners, as consumers instead of producers. This has limited our wealth, our influence, and our ability to shape our own future. Entrepreneurship is the key to changing that reality. It allows us to create jobs, invest in our own people, and build businesses that serve our communities rather than extract from them.

Think of the Puerto Rican economy like a leaky bucket—money flows in, but because we don’t own enough businesses, most of it flows right back out. The only way to plug the leaks is by building our own businesses, supporting Boricua entrepreneurs, and reinvesting in each other.

Why Puerto Ricans Need to Own More Businesses

Ownership is power. Every time we buy from a business, we are investing in someone’s dream—but who owns that dream? If we don’t own the stores, the brands, and the industries we buy from, then we are helping someone else build wealth while our own communities stay struggling.

A community that doesn’t own its businesses becomes dependent on outsiders for jobs, services, and even basic needs. This is especially true in Puerto Rico, where many of the biggest businesses are owned by foreign corporations. The result? The profits leave, and we are left with the scraps.

Now, imagine a different reality—one where Boricuas own the grocery stores, the clothing brands, the tech companies, and the banks. Instead of our money flowing out, it circulates within our communities, creating wealth, opportunity, and independence.

This is not just a dream—it is a necessity. If we do not own, we will always be at the mercy of those who do.

How Entrepreneurship Strengthens Our Communities

Every business started by a Boricua has the power to change lives. Let’s look at how:

1. Creating Jobs & Financial Independence

A single business can provide jobs for multiple people. If every Boricua entrepreneur hired just one or two employees, imagine the impact on unemployment rates. No more waiting for corporations to “bring jobs” to us—we create them ourselves.

2. Keeping Money in Our Communities

Right now, when you buy something from a big chain store, most of that money leaves the community. But when you buy from a Boricua-owned business, that money stays local. It gets spent at local restaurants, local barbershops, and local services, creating a cycle of prosperity.

3. Inspiring the Next Generation

When young Boricuas see successful entrepreneurs who look like them, they start to believe that they, too, can build something great. We need more role models who show that success isn’t just about being a good worker—it’s about being a creator, a leader, and an owner.

4. Building Political & Economic Power

Communities that control their own businesses have more influence. They can fund local initiatives, support political candidates who represent their interests, and negotiate from a position of strength rather than weakness.

Examples of Successful Puerto Rican Entrepreneurs

We don’t have to look far to find Boricuas who have built empires. Here are just a few examples:

• Roberto Clemente Jr. – Following in his father’s footsteps, he not only built a name in sports but also became a businessman dedicated to philanthropy and education.
• Sofia Vergara (Puerto Rican heritage through her mother) – She leveraged her acting career into a business empire, including a fashion brand and multiple entrepreneurial ventures.
• Adrian Garcia – Founder of multiple tech startups that provide jobs for Puerto Ricans in software development, a sector where we need to grow.
• Boricua small business owners everywhere – From the local café owner in San Juan to the Boricua streetwear brand in NYC, every entrepreneur contributes to our collective strength.

The lesson? Success is possible—but we need more of it.

Steps to Start a Business with Little to No Money

Many people believe they need thousands of dollars to start a business. That’s a myth. With creativity and determination, you can start small and grow. Here’s how:

1. Identify a Problem You Can Solve

All businesses exist to solve a problem. Ask yourself:

• What do people need but struggle to find?
• What service could I offer that others don’t?
• What skills do I have that people would pay for?

2. Start with What You Have

Many successful businesses start with little money. If you can’t afford an office, work from home. If you can’t afford a website, start with social media. Use the tools available to you.

For example, if you want to start a clothing brand but can’t afford inventory, try print-on-demand services where you only pay for products after they sell.

3. Use Free or Low-Cost Marketing

Forget expensive ads—use social media, word-of-mouth, and community support to spread the word. Post consistently, tell your story, and connect with your audience.

4. Start Small, Then Scale

Don’t wait to have everything perfect—just start. Sell one product, offer one service, get one customer. Then reinvest and grow.

5. Leverage the Power of Networking

Entrepreneurship isn’t a solo journey. Connect with other Boricua business owners, join organizations, and build relationships. Your network is your net worth.

6. Stay Focused and Never Quit

Building a business is not easy, but neither is working a job you hate for 40 years. The struggle is temporary—the rewards are forever.

Conclusion: The Time Is Now

Boricuas have waited long enough for economic independence. Now is the time to build, create, and take control.

Every time we start a business, support a Boricua entrepreneur, or invest in our own people, we are taking a step toward economic freedom. We are not just surviving—we are thriving.

So, what will you build? What business will you start? What legacy will you leave?

Join the movement. Build. Own. Empower. The future of Boricuas depends on it.