Greater Orlando’s Puerto Rican community provides economic boost
Writer: Chérie Lynn Canada
June 2024 — In recent years, Greater Orlando has experienced a significant demographic shift, largely influenced by an influx of Puerto Rican residents. This migration has enhanced the region’s cultural diversity and brought substantial economic benefits through an amplified workforce and a burgeoning entrepreneurial base.
Between 2010 and 2019, Florida’s Puerto Rican population surpassed one million, increasing by about 38% from 864,577 to 1,190,891, according to the Center for Puerto Rican Studies at Hunter College. On a broader level, Florida boasts a Hispanic or Latino (of any race) population of 5,697,240, and combined with California and Texas account for about half of the total U.S. Latino population.
Meanwhile in Greater Orlando, Puerto Ricans’ influence can be traced back decades to more recent events such as Hurricane Maria in 2017.
“Hurricane Maria ignited a dramatic increase in Puerto Rican and Latino civic participation. The rise in elected Latino officials at all local government levels can be largely attributed to the efforts of organizations like Alianza Center, which emerged after the hurricane,” Rev. Jose Rodriguez, deputy director of Alianza Center, told Invest:.
“These organizations have been crucial in leveraging the cultural and human capital that has flowed into Central Florida, significantly enhancing the political landscape and representation of the Latino community,” he noted.
One notable impact of the Puerto Rican diaspora has been strengthening the local workforce. Puerto Ricans arriving in Greater Orlando have filled essential roles across various sectors, including healthcare, education, hospitality, and construction – which account for more than one-third (39%) of Orlando area employment. These contributions are crucial in a region known for its booming tourism industry and rapid urban development.
Beyond workforce contributions, many Puerto Ricans in Greater Orlando have pursued entrepreneurial ventures, fostering economic diversity and innovation.
The region, much like the whole country, has seen a rise in Puerto Rican-owned businesses, ranging from restaurants and retail shops to professional services and tech startups. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, nearly 25% of new entrepreneurs in 2021 were Latino.
Organizations such as the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida have played a pivotal role in supporting these entrepreneurs, offering resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy.
“A diverse and equal business community is essential for cultivating growth, achieving success, and expanding opportunities. By embracing diversity and equality, we create a more inclusive environment and unlock our community’s full potential,” said Pedro Turushina, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, in a recent conversation with Invest:.
“Recognizing that diversity drives innovation and creativity is crucial, leading to better problem-solving and decision-making,” he added.
Image provided by Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando
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