José Alvarez believes that everyone has the potential to be an entrepreneur. As vice president of Prospera North Carolina, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Latino entrepreneurs, Alvarez works to provide invaluable support to immigrant entrepreneurs by offering bilingual services that guide them through the complexities of starting a business.
During his tenure in North Carolina, Prospera has provided one-on-one business consulting to almost 2,000 people, training over 3,000 business seminar attendees, facilitating $8M in capital, and resulting in the creation/retention of over 2,000 jobs.
In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Alvarez explains that many immigrants are naturally inclined to start businesses due to the challenges they face in adjusting to a new country. Language and cultural barriers often leave them with few other options, which is what makes Prospera’s service so crucial for new business owners. Alvarez also discusses:
How Prospera gives guidance in understanding the U.S. business and financial systems.
The importance of offering support in someone’s native language.
Business trends he has noticed among immigrants in Charlotte.
Curiosity, networking, and community involvement are crucial to entrepreneurial success.
What happens to entrepreneurs who outgrow Prospera.
The importance of networking and staying curious when it comes to entrepreneurship.
The future of entrepreneurship in Charlotte’s immigrant community.
Alvarez received The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 Award in 2024.
This podcast episode is part of a series highlighting winners of The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards, which honor and celebrate often unheralded people over the age of 40 who are making important contributions to Charlotte. It’s hosted by Steve Dunn of Miles Mediation and Arbitration.
Find out more about the 40 Over 40 awards by going to Ledger40over40.com.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with José Alvarez.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
Need to sign up for this e-newsletter? We offer a free version, as well as paid memberships for full access to all 4 of our local newsletters:
➡️ Opt in or out of different newsletters on your “My Account” page.
➡️ Learn more about The Charlotte Ledger
The Charlotte Ledger is a locally owned media company that delivers smart and essential news through e-newsletters and on a website. We strive for fairness and accuracy and will correct all known errors. The content reflects the independent editorial judgment of The Charlotte Ledger. Any advertising, paid marketing, or sponsored content will be clearly labeled.
Like what we are doing? Feel free to forward this along and to tell a friend.
Social media: On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Sponsorship information/customer service: email support@cltledger.com.
Share this post