The dynamic and culture of Pittsburgh have evolved from an industrial city to a vibrant community for innovation and entrepreneurship for small businesses. More specifically, Latino small businesses have been steadily growing and contributing to the economic growth of Western Pennsylvania. The rise of Latino small businesses exhibits the creativity and resourcefulness of the Latino community.

Moreover, the rise of the Latino population in Western Pennsylvania has also caused more economic growth in this area. “Rising Latino population drives economic growth in Western Pennsylvania” by Anna Mares, published by TribLive, includes an important anecdote by the Executive Director of the PMAHCC. Melanie Marie Boyer recognizes that Latinas are likelier to start a small business than any other demographic. Furthermore, Boyer continues by saying that Hispanic women are responsible for 50% of the new job opportunities created in the U.S. for the last four years (U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce). Boyer emphasizes inclusive growth and that raising one group contributes to overall success and economic prosperity. That said, the Latino Donor Collaborative completed a study in 2023 that measured Pennsylvania’s Latino economic growth. The think tank study concluded that PA’s Latino gross income was $36 billion in 2021, and the Latino sub-economy within the state is growing at 6.2% while PA’s economy is growing at a rate of 1.1%. Overall, Pittsburgh’s Latino economy is rapidly growing and ranks 6th among other states for Latino economic output (Pittsburgh’s NPR News Station). 

If this trend persists, Latino entrepreneurs in Pittsburgh are starting businesses at a faster pace than other demographics. For example, Karin Christoff, the owner of Fierce Knockouts, believes this is the case because the Hispanic community is trying to replicate something from home and is starting a life for themselves in Pittsburgh. Additionally, the rise of Latino small businesses creates jobs and contributes to the diversity of the city’s commercial landscape. Moreover, the owner of Mi Empanada, Ivan Gil-Silva, believes that Pittsburgh has become a hub for Latin-owned businesses due to the influx of Hispanic people coming to Western Pennsylvania from California and NYC. These new residents have been elemental in the growth of Latino businesses because they are already familiar with Latin culture. 

I had the opportunity to interview two Latin-owned small businesses in Pittsburgh! Check out their member highlight below and click on their website link to learn more!

Mi Empanada, located on Butler Street in Lawrenceville, is a mom-and-pop takeout restaurant selling homemade empanadas and other Argentine cuisine. Ivan Gil-Silva’s Argentine family and grandparents' cooking inspired him to open Mi Empanada. Gil-Silva and his team have created a good culture through honest cooking by using whole ingredients with the least amount of preservatives. Since officially becoming a restaurant in March of 2018, Mi Empanada has created a fun atmosphere with a large menu selection of empanadas, Argentine sandwiches, and South American pastries made in-house. Mi Empanada also offers catering services, group reservations, private parties, and gift cards! Check out Mi Empanada in person at 4034 Butler Street in Pittsburgh or online at Mi Empanada Link.