RICHFIELD, MN — As the tech and business community gathered for #Minnebar20 at the Best Buy Headquarters on Saturday, May 2, 2026, the conversation extended far beyond code and software. Juan Llerena, Executive Director of Vamos Impact, took the stage to champion Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota, positioning strategic community connection as the cornerstone of regional economic and educational growth.
During his session, “The Community Connection: Strategic Marketing, Outreach, and PR for Community Leaders,” Llerena served as a bridge between high-level strategy and grassroots impact. While the workshop provided tactical roadmaps for leaders, its heart centered on advancing Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota by ensuring that no part of the community—particularly the Latino population—is left operating in an isolated silo.
Building a Bridge for Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota
Llerena, widely recognized as a dedicated community advocate, utilized the platform to demonstrate how strategic communication can dismantle structural barriers. By sharing the Elev@te Framework—an inclusive outreach methodology designed to optimize engagement and communication channels for underserved populations—he highlighted the necessity of moving beyond traditional media to reach non-English speaking community members and aspiring entrepreneurs seeking Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota.
“A thriving community isn’t built on noise; it’s built on authentic connections,” Llerena noted. “When we align our vision with the actual needs of our neighbors, we stop just ‘marketing’ and start leading toward a better future for everyone.”
“A thriving community isn’t built on noise; it’s built on authentic connections. When we align our vision with the actual needs of our neighbors, we stop just ‘marketing’ and start leading toward a better future for everyone.” — Juan Llerena, Executive Director of Vamos Impact
Strengthening the Latino Ecosystem Across Minnesota
Under Llerena’s leadership, Vamos Impact has become a vital force in Minnesota, focused on expanding Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota through two primary programmatic pillars:
- Economic Development: Providing Latino entrepreneurs with essential business tools, technical mentorship, and strategic roadmaps needed to launch and scale sustainable enterprises.
- Education: Ensuring accessible paths to professional growth, financial leadership, and digital literacy, helping individuals navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape.
The presentation at Minnebar20 served as a clear call to action for the broader tech and business ecosystem to recognize that the success of Latino-led initiatives is inextricably linked to the economic prosperity of the entire state.
A Call for Strategic Partnership
The work of shaping a resilient regional community requires collective effort and investment. Following the success of the Minnebar20 session, Vamos Impact is actively seeking to expand its network of institutional partners committed to Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota.
We invite stakeholders across all sectors to collaborate with us in this mission:
- Government Agencies: Looking to enhance inclusive public outreach, technical assistance, and community program implementation.
- Private Corporations: Seeking to invest in the next generation of diverse business founders, executives, and innovators.
- Foundations: Dedicated to funding sustainable community development, economic equity, and educational excellence.
- Individual Supporters: Who believe in the power of a connected, thriving, and equitable community.
Together, we can ensure that strategic community connection becomes a lived reality for every Minnesotan. Stakeholders interested in collaborating can review our information for funders or contact Vamos Impact directly.
About Vamos Impact
Vamos Impact is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing Latino entrepreneurship, education, and economic mobility across Minnesota communities. Through initiatives driving Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota, the organization offers culturally relevant resources, technical assistance, and mentorship frameworks to help emerging leaders and small business founders thrive. Learn more about our mission and impact at vamosimpact.org.
Media Contact:
Juan Llerena, Executive Director
Vamos Impact
Email: info@vamosimpact.org
Website: www.vamosimpact.org
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Vamos Impact advance Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota?
Vamos Impact advances Latino Economic Empowerment Minnesota by delivering culturally tailored business support, technical assistance, and leadership training to immigrant and Latino founders. The organization connects grassroots entrepreneurs with institutional funding, education, and market opportunities.
What key topics were presented during the #Minnebar20 session in Richfield?
At #Minnebar20, Executive Director Juan Llerena introduced the Elev@te Framework, focusing on strategic marketing, inclusive outreach, and public relations for community leaders. The session outlined practical strategies for bridging gaps between major tech ecosystems and non-English speaking founders.
How can corporate and institutional partners support these empowerment initiatives?
Corporate partners and foundations can collaborate with Vamos Impact by providing program grants, hosting workshops, or backing diverse supplier initiatives. Strategic digital technical infrastructure and advisory support are provided in collaboration with JLLB Media, a certified Targeted Group Business (TGB/MBE) recognized by the University of Minnesota Office for Supplier Diversity.