The number of Latinos has grown in record numbers in the last two decades. In fact, according to a report from New American Economy, Hispanic immigrants are now more likely to be business owners if you compare them with the average American overall. Although mom-n- pop shops have been a good resort to start a business there are other ways in which you don’t need a lot of money to keep those numbers of Latino entrepreneurs growing. Now, for Latino/as with little capital to become their own jefe(a)s, starting a business, using your existing assets and passions, is easier thanks to technology Interested in becoming a hotelier, a chef, a chauffeur, or animal care professional? Here’s how to do it!
Airbnb
Don’t we all love gatherings at home? Well, here’s your chance to show hospitalidad by renting out your whole apartment/house (or just a room) through Airbnb. When you become a host, you set the price and availability. Airbnb will ensure your listing is optimized to attract interested guests. It’s a great way to make money off of extra space, while keeping company and even planning a domino tournament. To get the most out of this learning experience, follow these tips to be a good Airbnb host. Consider all of the different angles of running a great mini-hotel: hosting, cleaning, customer service and any random issues that must be addressed during a stay. But, you’ll earn money right at home and maybe even by cooking your best chimichangas!
EatWith
#TacoTrucksOnEveryCorner seem like a great start-up! Love to cook and have dreams of owning a restaurant? EatWith let’s us create a menu based on our unique culinary talents— or your abuelita’s mofongo recipe— and set a price and availability for guests to join you in your home for a meal. What better way to test out restaurante dreams than making your home into one?
By becoming a frequent participant with EatWith, you will learn what works and what does not, and if that is a career worth pursuing for you. Follow this link to become a host and begin your career as a restaurateur.
Uber and Lyft
We all know you love driving, but the car payment and gas costs are through the roof! There’s a way to get paid while driving away. Becoming an Uber or Lyft driver may be the perfect complement to a day or odd-hours job. There are many incentives and bonuses for driving during busy weekends in big cities, or during bad weather, so flexibility is a must for making the most possible money. Make your car work for you when you drive for Uber (or Lyft), instead of letting it sit around only to accrue insurance, and parking costs. GPS optional, but highly recommended.
DogVacay
Cesar Millan, have raised the standard for animal-loving Latino/as .We’re sure you taught your sato to howl at salsa music. Well, here’s your chance to teach other dogs to play fetch and dance merengue. DogVacay connects dog parents with dog sitters – a match made in heaven for both parties. When you sign up to be a sitter, you set your own price and become more popular with members by getting positive reviews and by becoming verified with a background check. Now you can host dogs in your own home!
If your perrito interest is simply a long walk in the park or the beach, many big cities use technology to match dog parents with dog walkers, such as Wag!. Providers vary by city, so search and sign up to be a dog walker accordingly.
Using technology to start a business and become your own jefe(a) is easier than ever. You can tailor it for your needs, unique talents and interests.
Have you started your own business using technology? Are you your own jefe(a)? We’d love to read your story! Please send it to: marlena@moneymio.com
