Summary:
Suazo Business Center appoints six new board members to enhance support for Latino entrepreneurs.
Loan maximum increased from $10,000 to $50,000 to better assist entrepreneurs.
New board members bring diverse expertise and geographic representation.
Suazo has helped over 10,000 businesses since its founding in 2002.
Aims for a multigenerational impact by supporting entrepreneurs and their families.
Suazo Business Center Expands Board to Enhance Support for Latino Entrepreneurs
SALT LAKE CITY — The Suazo Business Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship among Latinos and other underserved communities in Utah, has announced the appointment of six new board members. This move aims to refine its strategies and better serve the business needs of the community.
Silvia Castro, the president and CEO, emphasized the importance of adapting to the community's evolving needs, stating, "Maybe what worked five years ago doesn't work today."
Historically, the organization does not appoint so many new members at once, but recent resignations, term expirations, and the creation of two new board positions led to this significant change. The new board members bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to the 17-member board, enhancing Suazo's expertise.
In a bold step to support entrepreneurs, the organization has increased the maximum loan amount from $10,000 to $50,000. Among the new members, Marlon Morales and Leo Gutierrez have lending backgrounds, which will be invaluable in this new capacity.
The new board also improves geographic representation, with members from Weber County, including Marcia White and Eli Madrigal, and Morales from Utah County. Reyes Florez, with extensive accounting experience, and Madrigal, owner of Rancho Markets, also bring valuable entrepreneurial insights.
Founded in 2002, Suazo has assisted over 10,000 businesses, primarily focusing on Latino entrepreneurs, who represent the largest share of minorities in Utah. The newly appointed board members will play a crucial role in developing a strategic plan that outlines the organization's goals moving forward.
Beyond individual support, Suazo aims to create a multigenerational impact by helping families succeed, thus contributing to the long-term prosperity of their communities. Morales and Gutierrez, as established professionals in finance and community service, will enhance Suazo's mission to empower minority entrepreneurs, fostering economic growth across Utah.
Key New Board Members:
- Marlon Morales: Small business lender at U.S. Bank.
- Leo Gutierrez: Utah market executive at JP Morgan Chase.
- Marcia White: Member of Ogden City Council and regional council worker.
- Reyes Florez: Founder and CEO of Platform Accounting Group.
- Eli Madrigal: Owner of Rancho Markets and former Suazo client.
- Juanita Damon: Strategy and process improvement expert at American Express.
These new appointees bring a wealth of experience and passion, reinforcing Suazo's mission to empower minority entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in Utah.
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