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In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava has launched a new initiative to recognize and support Latino-owned small businesses throughout the region. Organized through a collaboration between the Mayor’s Office of Engagement, CAMACOL, and the Strive305 small business program, the tour highlights the vital role Latino entrepreneurs play in shaping the cultural and economic fabric of the County.
The tour aims to strengthen connections between local government and small business owners while elevating visibility for enterprises that reflect the diversity, resilience, and creativity of Miami-Dade’s communities. By visiting a range of Latino-owned businesses—from restaurants and boutiques to professional service firms—the County is fostering dialogue, promoting development tools, and celebrating the impact of Latino innovation.
Officials involved in the effort describe the tour as both a celebration and a listening session. By visiting businesses embedded in culturally rich neighborhoods, the County hopes to gather firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities local entrepreneurs are experiencing. These insights will help inform future outreach efforts and ensure that government programs are more responsive to the needs of minority-owned businesses.
The tour included stops at a diverse group of small businesses that exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of the Latino community. Among them was Artigiano, a high-end tailoring shop specializing in handcrafted fashion and custom menswear. Also visited was Ignite Fit Training, a community-focused fitness studio offering group workouts, personal training, and wellness programs.
The County delegation also toured GEMRT, a Cuban-American-led accounting and advisory firm with a strong presence in the local business landscape. The firm represents the professional and financial expertise that Latino entrepreneurs bring to Miami-Dade’s economy.
On the culinary front, two iconic establishments were highlighted. Palacio de los Jugos, a well-known market and juice bar, is beloved for its traditional Cuban fare, fresh juices, and community atmosphere. Also featured was Fritanga Caña Brava, a family-owned Nicaraguan restaurant celebrated for its authentic dishes and loyal customer base.
These businesses not only contribute to the economic vitality of the County, but also serve as cultural cornerstones within their neighborhoods. They preserve culinary and artistic traditions, support local employment, and provide vital services that reflect the diverse identities of Miami-Dade residents.
One of the key goals of the tour is to promote awareness of Miami-Dade’s economic development programs, particularly Strive305, which focuses on empowering small and micro-businesses. Strive305 offers tools, training, and mentorship opportunities designed to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their operations. By bringing County leadership directly into these business spaces, the tour is helping build stronger, more responsive support systems.
In addition to relationship-building and resource promotion, the tour also serves as an opportunity to share the stories of these businesses through County communications. Photos, interviews, and videos captured during the tour will be featured on social media and other public channels to further elevate the voices of Latino entrepreneurs.
Ultimately, the Latino Small Business Tour reflects Miami-Dade County’s broader commitment to inclusive economic development. By honoring the contributions of Latino-owned businesses during Hispanic Heritage Month, the County underscores its recognition that small businesses are not just economic engines—but also vital expressions of culture, identity, and community strength.
