Latina Entrepreneur Academy adds HCCUSA partnership, returns to Alloy Growth Lab

Latina Entrepreneur Academy is expanding its Cincinnati footprint with a new partnership with Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA and a return to Alloy Growth Lab in Norwood for its 2026 program. The moves come as demand keeps growing, with the academy filling its cohort again without advertising and drawing 33 entrepreneurs from more than 80 applicants.

Why it matters: - The new partnership and venue give Latina Entrepreneur Academy stronger reach across Greater Cincinnati. - The changes are designed to expand access to business education, mentorship and resources for Latino entrepreneurs. - The academy says the shift also supports Latino-owned businesses while preserving its independent mission and programming.

What happened: - Latina Entrepreneur Academy announced a strategic partnership with Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA. - LEA will return to Alloy Growth Lab in Norwood for its 2026 Academy. - The academy first launched at Alloy Growth Lab, which will again host classes and programming. - The announcement was made July 24, 2026.

The details: - The HCCUSA partnership is intended to increase collaboration and connect entrepreneurs with more business networks and resources. - Corporate partners of Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA are being invited to contact the chamber office about sponsorship opportunities. - LEA said the return to Alloy Growth Lab will provide an innovative environment for participants. - The 2026 cohort includes 33 entrepreneurs chosen from more than 80 applicants. - LEA filled the program to capacity for the second straight year without advertising. - Since 2017, LEA has supported 239 entrepreneurs through business education and mentorship. - LEA has helped launch 38 new businesses and supported the growth of 81 existing businesses. - The academy says its alumni network continues to collaborate, mentor and strengthen the regional ecosystem.

Between the lines: - The full cohort and lack of advertising point to strong word-of-mouth demand. - The new chamber partnership suggests LEA is moving deeper into the regional business infrastructure while keeping its own educational model intact. - Founder Karla C. Boldery said entrepreneurship can create economic opportunity and strengthen communities.

What's next: - LEA is asking individuals, businesses, foundations and community partners to support scholarships and program costs through tax-deductible donations. - Contributions will fund educational materials, participant workbooks, expert instructors, mentorship, networking and year-round support. - The academy says every gift helps an entrepreneur move toward launching or growing a business. - More information is available through the donation page.