Immigrant Entrepreneurs

Throughout the history of the United States, a negative image has been cast upon immigrant communities. With the current political scene, 2017 has been no different.

When North Shore CDC received a grant from Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation to engage immigrant owned small businesses, it presented an opportunity to provide an alternative perspective.
Today, more than one million immigrants call Massachusetts their home. This means 16% of the state’s population is foreign-born. (New America Economy, 2016).

In Massachusetts alone, there are over 300,000 businesses owned by women, minorities, and immigrants. These businesses provide jobs for thousands of people across the state and generate billions of dollars in revenue. (MGCC, 2017) In 2014, immigrant-owned businesses alone created $1.7 billion in income (MGCC, 2017).

This June, we'll be featuring immigrant-owned small businesses on the North Shore. Make sure to visit these amazing spots and say hi to the highlighted owners!

Today's small business highlight goes to our friends at The NexMex Thing in Peabody, Massachusetts! Owner Emil Sepulveda, a native of Puerto Rico, spent 9 years working as a banker, but had always dreamed of owning his own business. Since its opening just 6 months ago, this restaurant has become a favorite for locals featuring traditional Mexican food based on family recipes like Mexican street corn and tacos!

Want to try this awesome local shop? Join us Friday, June 2nd from 3pm-7pm for a Pop-Up Parklet at The NexMex Thing for giant board games, music, and amazing food + sangria for purchase!